“Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” (1997) – My Favourite Book of All-Time

Author: J.K. Rowling

Publication Date: 1997

‘A Spellbinding Success’

“Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” is a children’s book written by J.K. Rowling. It’s the first novel in the highly successful “Harry Potter” series. The plot of this book follows a young wizard named Harry Potter. Harry discovers that he is a wizard, making friends and enemies at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. With the help of his friends, Harry manages to battle in a deadly duel with a dark lord. “The Philosopher’s Stone” was published in 1997 in England and 1998 in the U.S. It has been adapted into a feature-length film, like many of the other books in this series.

J.K. Rowling has created a spectacular novel in a fantastic series. She has managed to mix the perfect amount of magic, mystery, suspense, and depth into one book. The plot is highly original, engaging, and interesting. Rowling has made this book very well paced too. It runs just over 200 pages, yet one simply cannot put it down. There’s just a huge amount of characterization.

Harry Potter is a highly likeable protagonist. His courage, determination, and confidence make him one of the most inspiring characters you’ll ever read about. Ron and Hermione are two different yet relatable characters. Ron is immature and and tactical, while Hermione is logical and daring. Professor Snape and Albus Dumbledore are two very complex and layered characters. Severus Snape is unpredictable and has no sense of humour. Dumbledore, on the other hand, is humorous and understanding. The rest of the characters are very engaging; the reader immediately gets to know alot about them by the end of this book.

This is a great novel. Not only did it launch J.K. Rowling’s career as an author, but it also marked the beginning of an unforgettable phenomenon. Recommended for everyone.

Nearly 30 years after J.R. Rowling put pen to paper creating a legendary character in popular culture, it’s a spellbinding reminder of timeless literature that changed the world forever which I will always treasure.

5/5 stars