A review by mindsplinters
Beyond the Wand by Tom Felton

funny reflective fast-paced

4.0

A very enjoyable, highly readable memoir from Tom Felton, the actor who immortalized Draco Malfoy, and - no matter what he says - is far away not that character.  Sure, he was a bit of a cocky little asshole as a kid as evidenced by his honest stories but what boy isn't?  Especially as a teen and especially when kept down by 3 older brothers.  To be honest, Felton invariably comes across as a very down-to-earth, accepting adult who can look back at his life and calmly point out where he went wrong, where he went right, and where he got lucky with equal frankness.  This book was so much fun to read and chock full of positive energy.   I especially enjoyed his little stories about interactions with other cast members, family, and other people he has met.  Felton clearly looks for the best in people and, even when there are more negative interactions or issues, he tries instinctively to soften them.  It is adorable terribly relateable.  I would be glad to sit and listen to him gush about his fellow HP alums for hours; you know it would be almost nothing but how talented and generous and kind and supportive they are and we need more of that in this world.

My only quibble (and it is small) is that, while it is called Beyond the Wand, there is not an actual lot outside of Harry Potter.  I would say the book is easily 80% Hogwarts adjacent but, then, that was a good 10 years of his life so it makes sense.  
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