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on August 10, 2016
I bought this book for my 9 year old as his first “big kid” type of book. He has officially finished reading all of the Captain Underpants and Diary of a Wimpy Kid books so moving forward I wanted him to have something that will challenge him and hold his attention. I was only slightly worried that he would get board since this will be the first book he has read that doesn’t have any comics or doodles throughout the pages to hold interest.
Let’s face it, Harry Potter needs no introduction. My book arrived in about half of my estimated shipping time in emasculate condition. My son has been reading it for about a week now and is coming up to the halfway mark. He even woke up extra early before school the other day to get some reading in (proud mama/bookworm moment).
Don’t forget to encourage you kids to read.
“I have lived a thousand lives and I’ve loved a thousand loves. I’ve walked on distant worlds and seen the end of time. Because I read.” – George R.R. Martin
Let’s face it, Harry Potter needs no introduction. My book arrived in about half of my estimated shipping time in emasculate condition. My son has been reading it for about a week now and is coming up to the halfway mark. He even woke up extra early before school the other day to get some reading in (proud mama/bookworm moment).
Don’t forget to encourage you kids to read.
“I have lived a thousand lives and I’ve loved a thousand loves. I’ve walked on distant worlds and seen the end of time. Because I read.” – George R.R. Martin
on June 13, 2016
The beginning of an astonishingly epic story!!! While I was growing up, and I first heard about these books/movies, I was not allowed to watch or read them. But that all changed when I picked up a copy from a book fair back in 8th grade in the school library. Read it and have loved it. Loved it so much I had to continue with the other six entries in this series.
So as everyone here knows the whole story about Harry Potter by now, we are about to get an eighth entry but set in the 19 years after the events of Deathly Hallows. And we are also getting another movie set in the Potter universe but taking place about 70 years before the events of Sorcerer's Stone.
While living a life with his nasty aunt and uncle, young Harry's life is changed forever when he receives a letter from Hogwarts while being enrolled. Thanks to friendly half-giant Hagrid, Harry learns that he is famous because of his defeat of a Dark wizard named Lord Voldemort, who is revealed to have killed his parents.
The amazing storytelling from Rowling brings to life something beyond imagination itself which has captured the hearts of many for several years.
A great character example is Harry himself. Thus since he is probably the driving force for the whole story, he comes across several twists and turns in this and the six sequel stories that brings him to his ultimate destiny in episode 7. And with new friends and foes, Harry definitely is one we can relate to because at some point in our lives, we have been where he is when the story starts. And when he talks to the boa constrictor in chapter 2, I wanted to laugh when Dudley (his cousin fell into the pond) as the glass vanished.
So this is the introduction to a whole other world within our own with Diagon Alley, Quidditch, muggles and so much more. It is an excellent way to introduce readers to this magical world.
But another driving force throughout the whole series is that there is a whole slew of mysterious events in each individual entry. In this installment, Harry claims that his Potions teacher Professor Snape is after a magical relic called the Sorcerer's Stone. But as the story goes on it is revealed that the true villain (aside from Voldemort himself) is actually Professor Quirrell. Another thing I liked is while Voldemort is the true villain of the series as a whole, there are a few side characters in each entry who serve as the main villain individually. They either serve Voldemort directly or they serve the Ministry of Magic (in Book 5 more prominently).
The last thing I like about this and the other books is that it is about development. As the series goes on, we follow Harry, Ron and Hermione as they mature in each story. In this one, they have already met (around chapter 6) and are ready for what awaits them.
So thus begins the story of Harry Potter!!!
So as everyone here knows the whole story about Harry Potter by now, we are about to get an eighth entry but set in the 19 years after the events of Deathly Hallows. And we are also getting another movie set in the Potter universe but taking place about 70 years before the events of Sorcerer's Stone.
While living a life with his nasty aunt and uncle, young Harry's life is changed forever when he receives a letter from Hogwarts while being enrolled. Thanks to friendly half-giant Hagrid, Harry learns that he is famous because of his defeat of a Dark wizard named Lord Voldemort, who is revealed to have killed his parents.
The amazing storytelling from Rowling brings to life something beyond imagination itself which has captured the hearts of many for several years.
A great character example is Harry himself. Thus since he is probably the driving force for the whole story, he comes across several twists and turns in this and the six sequel stories that brings him to his ultimate destiny in episode 7. And with new friends and foes, Harry definitely is one we can relate to because at some point in our lives, we have been where he is when the story starts. And when he talks to the boa constrictor in chapter 2, I wanted to laugh when Dudley (his cousin fell into the pond) as the glass vanished.
So this is the introduction to a whole other world within our own with Diagon Alley, Quidditch, muggles and so much more. It is an excellent way to introduce readers to this magical world.
But another driving force throughout the whole series is that there is a whole slew of mysterious events in each individual entry. In this installment, Harry claims that his Potions teacher Professor Snape is after a magical relic called the Sorcerer's Stone. But as the story goes on it is revealed that the true villain (aside from Voldemort himself) is actually Professor Quirrell. Another thing I liked is while Voldemort is the true villain of the series as a whole, there are a few side characters in each entry who serve as the main villain individually. They either serve Voldemort directly or they serve the Ministry of Magic (in Book 5 more prominently).
The last thing I like about this and the other books is that it is about development. As the series goes on, we follow Harry, Ron and Hermione as they mature in each story. In this one, they have already met (around chapter 6) and are ready for what awaits them.
So thus begins the story of Harry Potter!!!
on May 20, 2016
I was late to the Harry Potter game, but I loved it. In this book, Harry got a letter saying he is in fact a wizard. So he is enrolled the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Him, along with his new friend the giant Hagrid, go to Diagon Alley, a magical bazaar, and thus he is thrust into the magical universe so captured the imagination of millions. We soon learn Harry is world famous among wizards for conquering an evil Wizard named Vo - um - He Who Must Not Be Named. Sorry `bout that slip. =). The book also introduces the relationship dynamics that would continue throughout the entire series, from the interplay between the three main kids (Harry, Ron, and Hermione), to the ambiguous Severus Snape, the wise mentor figure of Albus Dumbledore, bumbling Hagrid with his love of nasty creatures, prim and reserved Professor McGonagall, evil incarnate Voldemort, Draco Malfoy, etc.
Along the way, we learn that Voldemort is after a magical artifiact called the Philosopher's Stone (which was, unfortunately, changed from the UK original title to "Sorcerer's Stone" in all other regions). So much of the novel is driven by the three main characters defending this stone from Voldemort. The book is engaging with its imagery, humor, plot twists and real-life child problems. The book doesn't only appeal to children but adults as well. She's a master on fantasy. She really can, with no difficulty at all, think herself back to 11 years old. You will love the whimsical descriptions, humorous quotes and the fun characters.
This book was much fun to read. Very enjoyable. the writing is fabulous and the story line is also exceptional. It is probably the best book i have ever read. Overall very good i would recommend it basically to anyone who wants a good story. This is, without a doubt, one of the BEST books I have read in my life! I LOVE anything dealing with fantasy and/or humor, so I hardly put this book down when I started reading it! This book ranks up there with any of Roald Dahl's dark kids' books. My dad and my mom are going to read it, too, and I gave a copy to my best friend. I can't wait for Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets to be published in the USA! Take my advice: If you haven't read Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, then you haven't read anything yet! I think Harry Potter is a great character. I like the word "muggle" and I think it might become an ordinary word. My favorite chapter in Harry Potter was Quiddich - I wish it was a sport that was real. I liked it because it was a mix of sorcery and basketball. I was really lucky becauses my mom got a hold of the second book which is only out in England, but soon will be in America. I will give you a little hint. Harry Potter and his friend fly in a car and get in trouble. I can't wait until the third book comes out. Reminiscent of T.H. White's The Sword in the Stone, this lovely book captures one's imagination and sets off on a fantastical adventure. Equally appealing to adults and children, it weaves an intricate world that is pleasant to visit even though evil lurks and must be avoided at many turns. It's biggest fault is that it ends much too soon!
Along the way, we learn that Voldemort is after a magical artifiact called the Philosopher's Stone (which was, unfortunately, changed from the UK original title to "Sorcerer's Stone" in all other regions). So much of the novel is driven by the three main characters defending this stone from Voldemort. The book is engaging with its imagery, humor, plot twists and real-life child problems. The book doesn't only appeal to children but adults as well. She's a master on fantasy. She really can, with no difficulty at all, think herself back to 11 years old. You will love the whimsical descriptions, humorous quotes and the fun characters.
This book was much fun to read. Very enjoyable. the writing is fabulous and the story line is also exceptional. It is probably the best book i have ever read. Overall very good i would recommend it basically to anyone who wants a good story. This is, without a doubt, one of the BEST books I have read in my life! I LOVE anything dealing with fantasy and/or humor, so I hardly put this book down when I started reading it! This book ranks up there with any of Roald Dahl's dark kids' books. My dad and my mom are going to read it, too, and I gave a copy to my best friend. I can't wait for Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets to be published in the USA! Take my advice: If you haven't read Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, then you haven't read anything yet! I think Harry Potter is a great character. I like the word "muggle" and I think it might become an ordinary word. My favorite chapter in Harry Potter was Quiddich - I wish it was a sport that was real. I liked it because it was a mix of sorcery and basketball. I was really lucky becauses my mom got a hold of the second book which is only out in England, but soon will be in America. I will give you a little hint. Harry Potter and his friend fly in a car and get in trouble. I can't wait until the third book comes out. Reminiscent of T.H. White's The Sword in the Stone, this lovely book captures one's imagination and sets off on a fantastical adventure. Equally appealing to adults and children, it weaves an intricate world that is pleasant to visit even though evil lurks and must be avoided at many turns. It's biggest fault is that it ends much too soon!
VINE VOICEon March 17, 2014
I'm a late comer to the Harry Potter mania. I wasn't even interested in reading the books or watching the movies until I got a free blu-ray copy of the Deathly Hallows with my new blu-ray player. I watched part 1 and 2 and then I rushed out to the store to buy the first two movies. I had to see how it all started. After viewing all of them I wanted to read the books. I had found that the U.S. (Scholastic) version was slightly different from the original UK version by Bloomsbury. It seems the US publishers felt we would understand the British slang. Anyway, I wanted the UK version and purchased this edition. I didn't have any problems with the British text. The jacket is very nice with a beautiful picture of the Philosopher's stone on the front and a picture of J.K. Rowlings on the back. The book itself is nicely bound in black. There are no pictures on the book itself, only gold lettering on the spine. There are also no illustrations inside the book either since it is the "adult version," I suppose. The papers are a soft parchment color instead of bright white and is of nice quality.
Of course the book was fun and it really draws you into the Harry's newly discovered wizard world, and into Harry's life. I have enjoyed getting to know the other characters as well. Much of the text is word for word the script of the movie. I'm not sure if the first edition was this close since I haven't read it, but I would like to. I also understand that this (2004) edition corrected some mistakes that were in the original text. There is a whole website devoted to the books that explains the differences page by page.
At 223 pages, it is a quick read and one I will probably reach for many times over the years. Thank you J.K. Rowling for sharing your vision.
Of course the book was fun and it really draws you into the Harry's newly discovered wizard world, and into Harry's life. I have enjoyed getting to know the other characters as well. Much of the text is word for word the script of the movie. I'm not sure if the first edition was this close since I haven't read it, but I would like to. I also understand that this (2004) edition corrected some mistakes that were in the original text. There is a whole website devoted to the books that explains the differences page by page.
At 223 pages, it is a quick read and one I will probably reach for many times over the years. Thank you J.K. Rowling for sharing your vision.
on July 26, 2016
I absolutely LOVE the Harry Potter series, and it is definitely one of my favorite series that I have ever read. When I first started reading them I wasn't really sure that I would like them as I had unfortunately thought it was 'nerdy' when I was in school, and it was definitely a huge mistake! It is still a very good read as an adult, but I really wish that I had started reading them when they came out. I wanted my kids to be able to experience the magic of Harry Potter while they are young enough to believe in that kind of magic so we have started reading them together, and then watching the movie that coincides with the book. They love the series as well though I don't think they like it as much as me since my daughter 'teases' me about it. :)
This book is captivating from the very first sentence. J.K. Rowling is a very gifted writer and is descriptive enough to be able to transport you to her world without being so wordy that you find yourself losing interest. If you have not read this book yet then read it! You will not be disappointed.
This book is captivating from the very first sentence. J.K. Rowling is a very gifted writer and is descriptive enough to be able to transport you to her world without being so wordy that you find yourself losing interest. If you have not read this book yet then read it! You will not be disappointed.
on October 25, 2016
I don't know what I could put into a review that would be more telling than the simple fact this is a Harry Potter book written by JK Rowling--it doesn't get any better than that! I have given the Harry Potter books to several people in my family but this time around I decided to pamper myself and get my own collection for my in home library. The construction of the book is great, the quality is exceptional for a paper back book. The story grabs you immediately and never lets go. It plunges you into Hogwarts and makes you feel as though you are a classmate of Harry Potter. The writing is exquisite, it allows you to live and breath the experience. I love movies but they can never compete with the beauty of a wonderfully written story. This is a two thumbs up story for sure. It is a book you can read over and over. Bravo!
on February 3, 2017
My little sister is in 6th grade and starting to read more complex chapter books, so I decided it was time to give her the gift of Harry Potter! I don't think she has read it yet, but I hope she loves it as much as I do!
I was a late-bloomer in that aspect- I was too cool for what I thought were silly fantasy stories when these books came out when I was in high school. At the age of 28, my middle school librarian friend who was also too cool in high school became so embarrassed about not having read HP that she gave it and decided to try it. She told me YOU HAVE TO READ THIS! I always follow her advice when it comes to books, I did, and I'm hooked! It's never too late!
I was a late-bloomer in that aspect- I was too cool for what I thought were silly fantasy stories when these books came out when I was in high school. At the age of 28, my middle school librarian friend who was also too cool in high school became so embarrassed about not having read HP that she gave it and decided to try it. She told me YOU HAVE TO READ THIS! I always follow her advice when it comes to books, I did, and I'm hooked! It's never too late!
on July 19, 2014
Okay, first off, I don't care that the U.S. version of this book has to do with the "Sorcerer's Stone" as opposed to the "Philosopher's Stone". Personally, I like the former better as it ties into the universe better. But I could be wrong, so please minimize the amount of hate mail sent my way.
That being said, what kid doesn't imagine someone coming to them when they're around ten or eleven years old and explaining why they're different from others, assuring them that these differences are quite all right, and whisking them off to a magical school where they'll be fully accepted because of these differences. I'm convinced that this is what hooked so many onto this series and made it so successful (it pulled J. K. Rowling out of near-poverty or something close to it.) But my guess could be wrong. I don't know as I'm not a therapist...I don't even own a couch and I'm certainly not on TV. But I've convinced myself with this theory so I thought I would share it.
Now then, I loved this book. I loved this series. All seven books will be getting five stars because I can't go any higher. And, so it's also made clear, Hermione Granger is without a doubt my favorite character across the board, though there are a lot more that I still really, really like. I think this goes back to my liking girls with brains.
Right from the start, J. K. Rowling gave us one heck of a world to work with. Hidden train platforms, flying broomsticks, three-headed dogs, dragons, wands and spells, potions, and talking portraits are just the tip of the iceberg...and I love it all! In this book, I will say that Hagrid is my favorite faculty member because he's probably the kind of mentor I'd want...kind but firm and helpful but wisely cautious at times (i.e. pointing out Fang's cowardly nature.)
I read somewhere that the book's editors wanted to do away with the troll in the bathroom, but I say "how dare they?" This scene was the first of many turning points in this series and, without it, we may not have had many of the others.
I will say I wish Professor Quirinus Quirrell played a bigger role in this book. I know he plays a huge role in the end, but I wish he was more built up beforehand. Sure, the surprise involving him was still appropriate, but given what's said about his post as the Defense against the Dark Arts teacher, a job said to be cursed even in this book, I'd have liked to at least see him teach something. I don't remember any of that. In fact, during the school year, the only thing I remember about him is when he fainted while reporting the troll attack.
I do like how the Dursleys were developed, especially Vernon. Even though it's never said or even implied, the amount of time devoted to this family allows us to clearly link them later on with the family that doesn't believe in magic or anything similar, even if their motives for such beliefs remain a mystery a while longer.
I did find it odd that Hagrid never told Harry about how to find Platform 9 3/4. It seemed like one heck of an oversight, even for Hagrid. Sure, it opened the door for Harry to meet the Weasleys, but still...
While I'm on the subject, I'm also wondering how Muggle-born students like Hermione managed. I completely understand why Hagrid was sent to help Harry, given the boy's history and all that. But how do others who don't know any of this stuff find these places. There obviously aren't street signs and even Hermione couldn't have prepared for Diagon Alley somehow. Does Hogwarts send someone to every new student without witch/wizard parents? Do they send a detailed manual for you to read once you've recovered from your fainting spell? I would have liked some elaboration on this.
But for all my nit-picking, this was an absolutely great book. Jim Dale does an especially good job on the audio version, which is unabridged, which, in this case, should earn the book another nine stars on its own. If you're among the only two people in the world who don't know Harry Potter, "The Boy Who Lived", don't waste any more time. Read this book! Enjoy.
That being said, what kid doesn't imagine someone coming to them when they're around ten or eleven years old and explaining why they're different from others, assuring them that these differences are quite all right, and whisking them off to a magical school where they'll be fully accepted because of these differences. I'm convinced that this is what hooked so many onto this series and made it so successful (it pulled J. K. Rowling out of near-poverty or something close to it.) But my guess could be wrong. I don't know as I'm not a therapist...I don't even own a couch and I'm certainly not on TV. But I've convinced myself with this theory so I thought I would share it.
Now then, I loved this book. I loved this series. All seven books will be getting five stars because I can't go any higher. And, so it's also made clear, Hermione Granger is without a doubt my favorite character across the board, though there are a lot more that I still really, really like. I think this goes back to my liking girls with brains.
Right from the start, J. K. Rowling gave us one heck of a world to work with. Hidden train platforms, flying broomsticks, three-headed dogs, dragons, wands and spells, potions, and talking portraits are just the tip of the iceberg...and I love it all! In this book, I will say that Hagrid is my favorite faculty member because he's probably the kind of mentor I'd want...kind but firm and helpful but wisely cautious at times (i.e. pointing out Fang's cowardly nature.)
I read somewhere that the book's editors wanted to do away with the troll in the bathroom, but I say "how dare they?" This scene was the first of many turning points in this series and, without it, we may not have had many of the others.
I will say I wish Professor Quirinus Quirrell played a bigger role in this book. I know he plays a huge role in the end, but I wish he was more built up beforehand. Sure, the surprise involving him was still appropriate, but given what's said about his post as the Defense against the Dark Arts teacher, a job said to be cursed even in this book, I'd have liked to at least see him teach something. I don't remember any of that. In fact, during the school year, the only thing I remember about him is when he fainted while reporting the troll attack.
I do like how the Dursleys were developed, especially Vernon. Even though it's never said or even implied, the amount of time devoted to this family allows us to clearly link them later on with the family that doesn't believe in magic or anything similar, even if their motives for such beliefs remain a mystery a while longer.
I did find it odd that Hagrid never told Harry about how to find Platform 9 3/4. It seemed like one heck of an oversight, even for Hagrid. Sure, it opened the door for Harry to meet the Weasleys, but still...
While I'm on the subject, I'm also wondering how Muggle-born students like Hermione managed. I completely understand why Hagrid was sent to help Harry, given the boy's history and all that. But how do others who don't know any of this stuff find these places. There obviously aren't street signs and even Hermione couldn't have prepared for Diagon Alley somehow. Does Hogwarts send someone to every new student without witch/wizard parents? Do they send a detailed manual for you to read once you've recovered from your fainting spell? I would have liked some elaboration on this.
But for all my nit-picking, this was an absolutely great book. Jim Dale does an especially good job on the audio version, which is unabridged, which, in this case, should earn the book another nine stars on its own. If you're among the only two people in the world who don't know Harry Potter, "The Boy Who Lived", don't waste any more time. Read this book! Enjoy.
on February 28, 2016
I use passages of this in Latin class. My kids love it! The first time I used it, it took about 5 minutes before the first student started laughing and getting excited. I hadn't told them what they were reading, so it came as a nice surprise for my Harry Potter fans in the classroom. I use it as in addition to the Classical texts. It's always nice to show them that Latin is still being used and adapted to modern works.
