First a little disclaimer: When Harry Potter first came out, in my high school senior social studies class we had to select a book and write a report. We were in social studies/history, so I of course chose a very appropriate book (The Killer Angels). Another student had the audacity to choose a children’s book, Harry Potter. I was quick to let them know my disapproval of such weak literature.

Fast forward only a few years and I was one of those anxiously awaiting the arrival of the final book on July 21, 2007. My how things change. I will gladly admit how wrong I was.

Overall take away…. From all 7 books. Aside from the obvious lack of moral imagination (the premise of a story, in which the good guy never does bad things and always follows the rules etc), I have once again thoroughly loved these books.

While they are stuffed with magic, obviously, they touch on so many situations that very real people experience. Hard situations with family dynamics, grief, poverty, privilege, a plethora of -isms, and a variety of people and situations being redeemed.

While it certainly isn’t on par with the works of Tolkien and Lewis, the Harry Potter books speak on a variety of important lessons, if one is willing to listen. From the discrimination that Hermione and Remus face, as well as the Weasley family, to the abuse of power by the Malfoys, the media, and the ministry itself. There are countless examples of the individual experience and how others can greatly affect, for better or worse, the people around them.

All in all, I still heartily recommend this collection of stories. 

Just finished the Harry Potter series. I’m not sure if it’s the 2nd or 3rd reread…the kids got me confused with having started reading it to them. But I read them. I had debated just turning off the light at 10:20, at the beginning of the Battle for Hogwarts. I knew the sadness that was coming. But I read on. Finished it  at 1:40am.

So many things to flesh out and think about. Coming to this book as a 39 year old mom of 5, ranging from 6-12 years old, is much different than as a college, early 20s individual.

First of…Snape. We all know that famous line, Always. That everything he did, and put himself through was because of his love for Lily. Hold up. Whatever he did, at Dumbledore’s request, he was still a complete ass to Harry. Yes, he was willing to do whatever was asked to protect her son, but he still treated him like crap.

Not to mention that he was a creeper level 10 in his unrequited love for Lily. He doggedly followed her for years, because he “loved” her, but yet was willing to sacrifice their relationship after Lily had repeatedly expressed that she didn’t like who he was hanging out with (death eaters). His having begged Voldemort to spare Lily was rather