Harry, you Rule. You really do.

photo courtesy of Harsh Light

It seems so long ago when I first began my journey (along with millions of others) with Harry, Hermione, Ron, Dumbledore, and the rest of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter fame. I distinctly recall how I came to read this beloved series. Several years ago (I mean several years back, I mean way back, go further than that, nope, go a little bit further, there) I was on my way home, riding BART, and seeing several adults in my train with their noses stuck in these Harry Potter books (different books from the series). I sat across from one lady who was probably in her 50's and I remember staring at her for some time. She was definitely consumed in her book and never even made eye contact with me. I realized then and there, this was a book series I had to read.

Within the first 10 pages of The Sorcerer's Stone, I was hooked. Like, drug-addict hooked. As years wore on, I eventually finished the series. There is a sadness I feel as the final movie (part 2 of the final book) is being released. I, too, grew up with Harry and his merry band of cohorts. It's incredible the world J.K. Rowling created and how she's touched so many young readers, and dare I say, enlightened, older ones.

I cannot wait for Micro and Micron to read the series and hopefully enjoy it too. Harry Potter books will have a special place in my heart because it's a world born of imagination, where the author doesn't shirk the topic of fear, loss of loved ones, heart-break, or betrayal. All things most parents might think young children are not prepared to understand. There are strong, respectable, and admirable characters in the books (both good and bad). For me, the Harry Potter books have helped to reignite my love of reading. To quote Anatole Thibault, "To know is nothing at all. To imagine is everything." Thanks J.K for unleashing the power of imagination and creating an amazing world. 

Are you ready to ride the Hogwarts Express one last time?