Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Confession time. This is the first time I've read a Harry Potter book and I've never watched any of the films. Somehow, I've gone this long without spoilers. I never felt compelled to read these books. In part because I saw them as kids books that came out when in was an adult, so there was no nostalgia factor. Also in part because it's not the sort of fantasy and magic I typically go for. However, when the boy says he wants to see the movie some time, I decided research was required.

At first I wasn't sure about the book. I found myself wondering how long until the story really starts. I wasn't sure I cared about Harry Potter and I certainly didn't care for his aunt, uncle, and cousin. However, once at Hogwarts, things pick up pace for me. By the end, I didn't want to out it down until I'd finished.

The story is well told. Even the slow start doesn't seem so slow in hind sight. I liked that the characters were imperfect and that not everything went their way. I care greatly about the message(s) a book sends, and in the end, this book has some good ones.

Among Christian friends, I know this is a controversial book. Some are uncomfortable with witchcraft and the way they present witches and wizards on the book. I personally didn't find this book to be at odds with my faith. It doesn't teach people to practice things God calls out in the Bible, like talking to the dead or worshiping false gods or sacrificing children.

At the end of the day, the boy will be waiting a few years to be ready for this book or movie, much like he will be waiting for Star Wars. When the time comes, I'll enjoy talking with him about what he gets out of the story.