I have enjoyed re-reading the first Harry Potter book to my son.  Unfortunately, having seen the movies, he did not enjoy the story as well as I had hoped.   For me, it was a nice review of a classic tale that all children should read.

After living with his horrid, adoptive family, Harry is chosen to attend Hogwarts – a school of magic and wizardry.  This first book describes Harry’s first year when he learns that he is famous in the wizarding world and begins to understand the demise of his parents at the hands of the evil Voldemort.  At school, Harry meets lifelong friends (Hermione and Ron) and starts to learn how to manage his powers.

As they adapt to boarding school and learn about magic and potions, the three new students discover that there is a secret lurking within the school – the philosopher’s stone.  It is being guarded by a three headed dog and enchantments yet strives to protect if from the evil Voldemort.  Of course, the three end up in all sorts of predicaments.  This tale covers the first year at Hogwarts and ends with the three going home for the summer.

If you have not had the pleasure of reading this series, it is time to give it a try.  I am not always a fan of fantasy but enjoyed each and every book in this series.  This would be terrific required reading for students as the trio deals with adversity and challenge while good triumphs over evil in the end.