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A review by supeskenobi
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J.K. Rowling
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.75
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone was released nearly twenty six years ago at time of writing this review, and it never fails to amaze me at just how well written this book is. For her first foray into writing, Rowling creates a world, that whilst not as sound or complex as other fantasy authors such as Tolkien or Martin, is still a world that feels lived in a real. The true longevity of this series, despite the recent cinematic entries, is the fact that the Wizarding World is a world in which you the reader, wants to visit and to live in.
By blending the two, our world and the Wizarding World, it makes this series feel somewhat more relatable than some of the higher fantasy series. This, combined with the fact that the story revolves around a teenage boy going through school, makes it hit home harder than most now the series credit for. Seeing Harry struggle with homework and the issues that being in school presents help add to the overall relatability to this story.
Harry as a protagonist is as near perfect as one would want from a character. He isn't wicked smart, nor overly egotistical, he doesn't look down his nose at other people (well maybe Slytherin) and he is never cruel. He is a kind hearted boy, who tries his best, fails, learns from his mistakes and transgressions. He is loyal and willing to sacrifice himself for the sake of others. Is it any wonder why people love him so.
The overall story itself, of how a boy who comes from a terrible background, of tragedy and mistreatment, to become and wizard and help once again defeat the very man who killed his parents and threatens both his new world and the Muggle World, is one that has been done before; but Rowling's strength is that she imbues the story with a wonderful sense of wit, love, mystery and cheek that helps keep the readers concentration and keeps you turning every page.
What a story. What a book. What a legacy.
#Transrightsarehumanrights
By blending the two, our world and the Wizarding World, it makes this series feel somewhat more relatable than some of the higher fantasy series. This, combined with the fact that the story revolves around a teenage boy going through school, makes it hit home harder than most now the series credit for. Seeing Harry struggle with homework and the issues that being in school presents help add to the overall relatability to this story.
Harry as a protagonist is as near perfect as one would want from a character. He isn't wicked smart, nor overly egotistical, he doesn't look down his nose at other people (well maybe Slytherin) and he is never cruel. He is a kind hearted boy, who tries his best, fails, learns from his mistakes and transgressions. He is loyal and willing to sacrifice himself for the sake of others. Is it any wonder why people love him so.
The overall story itself, of how a boy who comes from a terrible background, of tragedy and mistreatment, to become and wizard and help once again defeat the very man who killed his parents and threatens both his new world and the Muggle World, is one that has been done before; but Rowling's strength is that she imbues the story with a wonderful sense of wit, love, mystery and cheek that helps keep the readers concentration and keeps you turning every page.
What a story. What a book. What a legacy.
#Transrightsarehumanrights