Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone - J.K. Rowling, Mary GrandPré The world of the Harry Potter series is so rich and full. Even in the first book, you get a sense that there is much more to the wizarding world than you've already been told. First, we are introduced to Diagon Alley, which I really loved, especially Olivander's. I mean, who doesn't like the elderly, slightly creepy wand maker? After Diagon Alley, comes the most magical place in all of the series, Hogwarts. I can't even express my excitement and complete awe. How in the world did Rowling create such a fantastic world?

The characters all work very well together. I actually had forgotten how smart Harry actually is. I mean, he's no genius but the book portrays both him and Ron as relatively smart students, which I think the movies make us forget. I really enjoyed the dialogue between all of the characters and the individual personalities that just breathe across the pages. I like some characters more than others, but Rowling has a way of writing that just makes everyone come to life right there on the page. Every character in the book is very realistic, each with their own faults and strengths.

It's amazing how much you forget. When I started this book, I was instantly surprised at how much I was enjoying it. I had prepared myself for what I thought would be a young read. Again, I was pleasantly surprised. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is written in such a way that readers, both young and old, can enjoy the plot, which in and of itself isn't all that childish. And the writing itself isn't young. It's not complicated but Rowling clearly didn't dumb down or try to boost her writing with big words for any particular audience. She really is a talented lady.

All in all, I really liked this book and am so glad I read it again after all this time. I'm really looking forward to rereading the rest of the series.