Originally read June 2000 
 Re-Read Multiple times. 
 Most recent re-read: Sept 2016 
 This is one of my all-time favorite series! I had actually first heard of the series when a friend of mine was reading the Prisoner of Azkaban and was trying to describe a dementor to me. From there I did some looking into the book to discover it was a series. The day before I flew out to visit my grandparents my dad bought me the first book to read on the flight. By the time the flight was over I had devoured the book! I have since read it several times and have yet to tire of it, and each time I read it, I take a little more with me. 
 I think just about everyone has heard about the books by now which is why I am not focusing so much on plot and characters. We've all heard about them. Instead, I want to share mostly the overall feel the book leaves you with. 
 The world of Harry Potter has to be one of the most engaging concepts I have ever read. Invigorating and rich. Magic and adventure lovers should not miss this book. Honestly one book I think everyone should read at least once is this. 
 Saying you've seen the movie does not do it justice. There are so many details you'll miss this way. From how they celebrate holidays with Wizard Crackers to the fantastically annoying Peeves the Poltergeist of Hogwarts (still mad he is not in the movies). While the films are good, the book is so much more! 
 I think just about everyone has heard about the books by now which is why I am not focusing so much on plot and characters. We've all heard about them. 
 The story is real enough we can all relate. We've all read stories about good vs evil and this is no exception. But the originality that goes into the world building changes everything! Not to mention the imperfect heroes. Harry Potter is not some grand, perfect student. me makes mistakes, break rules, and is overall average as a student. His friends and even enemies have their own strengths and weaknesses as well. 
 Yet relate-able as the characters are, the magical world is one so fantastical I hate leaving it. This is one of the best 'escape' from reality books. And a great mood lifter as well.For older kids, teens and adults of all ages! People of all backgrounds can enjoy this book. So if you haven't read it, do so NOW!