Rowling, J.K., (1997). Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, New York: Scholastic.
Summary: Harry Potter is a story about a boy who is more than just human (or a muggle). It starts by describing the Dursley family who were “perfectly normal” except for Mrs. Dursley’s sister Mrs. Potter. There normal life started to change when Mr. Durley started seeing strange things occurring all over town. Eventually the book introduces Albus Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall and Hagrid who are from a place called Hogwarts. They are making sure of a safe arrival of Harry Potter, who at this time is a baby. Mr. and Mrs. Potter had died, leaving Harry to live with his only family, the Durleys. Harry endures the mistreatment from the Durley family. They made him stay in the cupboard while they spoiled Dudley their son (who was about the same age as Harry). Mysterious letters started to come to the house addressed specifically to Harry Potter, the cupboard under the stairs. Eventually the Durley family could not avoid the letters and Harry was to go to the school, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry which Hagrid, a “giant of a man” with a face covered by a tangled beard, had to make sure Harry received the letter. The rest of the book goes through Harry’s first experience at the school, learning about his past and how he saves the day. He meets some friends, Hermoine and Ron. He also learns how to play Quidditch and becomes a star, following in his Father’s footsteps.
Rationale for Selection: This was a popular book that many people have read including students I may work with. I felt it was time to give in and read it so that I will be able to relate with my students.
Reader Response: I had no desire to read this book or even see the movies, neither interested me. After reading the book I found I enjoyed the book a lot. I wouldn’t mind seeing the movie and if I have free time I might read the other book in the series. At first the different characters overwhelmed me with their strange names. As I read on my excitement to finish and find out how it ends was growing. You felt for Harry and his situation and could not help but follow him through his journey.
Genre and Themes: Fantasy/Adventure
Teaching Thinking notes:
This is a great site about the author J.K. Rowling:
http://www.scholastic.com/harrypotter/books/author/index.htm
Here is a look at the trailer to the first Harry Potter movie that might be a great way to draw your kids into reading the books, if their excitement has not already been sparked by the frenzy. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=geNlXmmIp7w
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