Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (Novel) Review

The book that launched an empire that made one woman very very rich (and deservedly so). This was not the first book I read in the series. I was a rather late convert to the books having been dragged to the 2nd film by a friend. This literary lapse is something I think I’ll always regret. How thrilling it would have been to learn of Harry's past as Harry does, to wonder at the references to you know who and He who must not be named.

There is a certain charm in rereading these books years later, older, wiser and after the series has been completed. Despite what some literary snobs might say Rowling is a very accomplished wordsmith. She manages to expertly pitch this book (and the others) right for its target audience, which we shouldn't forget is the age Harry is in each book. So for this book 11 years old, (although this will not stop older readers enjoying it.)

Philosopher's stone is a short book, especially when compared to the later books. This however is not to the books determent. Even in this early volume the stage is being set for the greater story. This without sacrificing the books narrative and its standing as a sole volume. It is a book full of mystery an intrigue that is more than fulfilled in the greater series, humour and just the right level on danger. As you’ll probably know the books get quite dark as Harry ages (the target audience age increases.)

Rowling describes the wizard world efficiently and with great effect, she has a great understanding for the needs of the narrative. She appreciates that just like for Harry the surface details of the wizarding world is more than enough to dazzle the readers in this first book. She leaves unnecessary exposition for later books when it is needed to give depth to the world she has so expertly created.

Masterpiece would be going to far for any of the potter books on their own, its only as a whole that the series becomes potentially worthy of such praise. That said had it never spawned its sequels it would still be a very good book. As the first book from an unknown author its a wonder and no surprise that it spawned such a phenomenon.