My thoughts on the Harry Potter books

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I am one of the biggest fans of the genius that is J. K. Rowling. I have been an avid follower of the Harry Potter series ever since I was a teenager. The series went on to become a worldwide phenomenon and I for one couldn't be happier. 

Have I read and re-read the books and am aware of even the minutest details? But of course. Have I watched and re-watched all the movies based on the novels? Obviously. Have I secretly hoped for a letter for Hogwarts with my name on it? Yes I have. Have I taken the Harry Potter Quiz? Of course I have (potential Ravenclaw over here). Do I imagine what butterbeer tastes like? Sure I do! 

I get personally offended when anyone disses Harry Potter. It can't be just me right? What flummoxes me the most is when people say that they found the book "boring" (seriously? 😲) or that they are too "old" to read the books and that it is a series is meant for kids. I just can't help but roll my eyes in exasperation. These books ceased to be specifically for children halfway through the series; by Goblet of Fire, Rowling was writing for everyone. 

In my opinion, grown ups who love the Harry Potter books are people who are able to appreciate good writing and have a sense of humour. I get that the fantasy genre isn't everyone's cup of tea but I can't help but feel sorry for anyone who considers it uninteresting or worse, don't even give it a fair chance. It is almost impossible to ignore the abundance of creativity, imagination and wit that are a trademark of every single book in the series. Rowling is an incredibly gifted storyteller and the magic that she has woven into all her books seems to emanate from them leaving a spellbinding effect on the world. What amazes me is how much thought has been put into the books. The multilayered plot, magical jargon, the history of Hogwarts, the lineage of magical families, magical abilities, complex spells, dark arts, magical creatures, plants and objects - I can go on and on. Even if certain loopholes have been spotted and questions raised, credit must be given where it is due. 

As most people are aware, the books chronicle the adventures of Harry Potter and his best friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, all of whom are students at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The story traces the trials and tribulations faced by Harry as he time and again comes face to face with the dark wizard Lord Voldemort, who killed Harry's parents in his quest to conquer the wizarding world and subjugate non-magical people aka muggles. 

The first few books that detail the lives of the young wizards and witches in Hogwarts are wonderfully exciting and laced with rib-tickling wit and humor. As the characters grow older, the plot evolves with darker and thrilling twists and turns every step of the way. The transition that Harry, Ron and Hermione undergo from care free, free spirited preteens to mature, sensible adults is truly remarkable. You cannot help but feel a powerful connection with them and inevitably, you end up rooting for them throughout their journey. For indeed if the series had ended with the death of any of the main characters, I would undoubtedly have been devastated.

There are not many writers who have Rowling's ability to make us turn the pages with such ferocity, to sob unabashedly and to laugh uproariously at some very amusing jokes. At the core of the series lie themes of love, friendship, bravery, loyalty, kindness and inclusivity. These books have important take-away lessons for not just children but adults as well. I would say with confidence that there is at least one aspect in these books that can resonate with everyone, probably even help them in some way. And that intangible connection between the book and the reader is sacred. 

For all you Harry Potter skeptics out there, I hope reading this blog post may inspire you to give it a go. I can assure you that once you set aside your preconceptions and give the books a fair shot, you simply cannot put them down. They are simply that good.

And to all you Potterheads out there, I'm sure you agree that when someone asks-  "After all this time?" your answer will be - Always. 

Have you read these books? If yes, what did you think about them? I would love to hear your thoughts. Drop a comment to let me know....

Cheers,

Megha