Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Author: J.K. Rowling

Illustrator: Mary GrandPré

Reading Level: 9-12

Although it is classified as a children's book, "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" will capture the imagination of any inner child. J.K. Rowling has achieved a feat of strength in the creation of this novel because as much as she has given to the book, this story of Harry Potter is only the handle of a very intricately crafted wand.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone Plot

Having been left in the care of his disapproving Aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon when he was only an infant, Harry Potter has never been told the truth about his parents and his roots in the magical world. On his eleventh birthday he finally learns that he is a wizard, a very famous one too, and that no matter his uncle says, he will be attending classes at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Not only does Harry become enlightened to some of the truth surrounding the events of his parent's death during his first year at Hogwarts, but he also discovers that the corridors of the castle are protecting a very unique magical artifact, the Sorcerer’s Stone. Together with his friends Ron and Hermione, Harry must uncover the truth about the stone and find a way to stop the wizard who is after its legendary powers.

Style & Tone

Despite the glimpse of darkness in this novel there is a definite playful tone rippling throughout its pages. Flowing effortlessly from the British voice of the author, the innocence of childhood antics intertwine with spots of a more enlightened humor. Alleviating the intensity, but not overpowering the sense of danger, Rowling pokes fun when it is appropriate and maintains light heartedness until the last word.

Because the author is from England there are a few words and phrases that will provoke some questions if you're not from the area, but it makes a world of dragons and wizards that much more authentic. The character Hagrid speaks with a very thick dialect and it's hard not to stumble through his words, but reading slowly through his dialog allows the reader to really hear the voice of this character.

Characterization & Setting

As this is the first Harry Potter novel, it is essential that the essence of each player in the story make an impact on the reader and Rowling does not fail to deliver a full cast of irresistible characters. Attachments are made early on to Harry and his friends and readers will love to hate Harry's rivals on the playground and in the classroom. Though they be witches and wizards they are still kids and their teachers are teachers.

Because the nature of Rowling's characters are so true to life it is no difficult task to imagine them in their surroundings. Even the most everyday background is flawlessly designed with words to create an image of Harry's world and stir the reader's emotions. Allusions to other locations within the castle at Hogwarts and on the grounds of the school are tucked into the corners giving the impression that in all of his years at wizarding school, there will never be a dull semester for Harry Potter.

Illustration

This is by no means a picture book, but illustrator Mary GrandPré introduces each chapter visually by opening a window for the imagination to climb through. The artist's unique style on the canvas is perfectly matched to Rowling's voice on the page and GrandPré's work smiles even when it has fangs.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone Final Thoughts

There is real magic in the pages of this novel, the magic of imagination and spirit. Dragons, wizards and wands aside, this is a story of a hero who is destined to triumph over the evils in the world that oppose him. What gives Harry the most power; however, is not a potion or a spell or even his intellect. The greatest magic within Harry is the strength of his character, the love of his mother and father and the loyalty of his friends. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is a triumph in the literary world with or without its best-seller credit and will surely be enjoyed by generations of children and adults alike.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone Links

• J.K. Rowling's Official Site
• Mary GrandPré's Official Site
• The "Ultimate" Harry Potter Site
• Veristaserum.Com - Everything Harry Potter

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