Why Did I Choose Harry Potter?

Why did I choose J.K.Rowling and the story of Harry Potter? It may seem like a silly and trivial book for it to have been one of my favorites, but I believe that this series played a huge role in my love of reading. This was the first real book that I had ever read. I didn’t enjoy reading when I was younger and previous to Harry Potter it was more a nuisance and something I was forced to do at school. I remember reading the first book and for the first time in my life I was sucked into a book. I couldn’t put it down. After I was finished I immediately had to read the second book. Again, I couldn’t put it down. Sadly, the second book had just been released so it would be a while before I could read more.

After reading the series I had a new perspective of books. If these were that good, I was sure there were others out there too that were equally as entertaining. I began reading more and feel in love with books. I read a lot of fantasy books and have gone through several series in that genre. It has opened me up to new worlds and new stories. I love being able to be transported to another place when this world gets to be too much. If it weren’t for Harry Potter I may never have discovered my love for reading. It opened the door and peaked my interest in reading, and because of that it will never be just a silly series.

I still enjoy reading the series to this day. I have read all the books, and my family also enjoys listening to the books on tape during road trips. I was even proudly at the bookstore at midnight when the final book was released. My wife and I fought over it for a couple of days, but we both finished in record time. I have a deep respect for the Harry Potter series and I think it is an important and effective tool to introduce kids to the love of reading.