Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Harry Potter, #1)

by J.K. Rowling

Harry Potter has never been the star of a Quidditch team, scoring points while riding a broom far above the ground. He knows no spells, has never helped to hatch a dragon, and has never worn a cloak of invisibility.

All he knows is a miserable life with the Dursleys, his horrible aunt and uncle, and their abominable son, Dudley a great big swollen spoiled bully. Harry's room is a tiny closet at the foot of the stairs, and he hasn't had a birthday party in eleven years.

But all that is about to change when a mysterious letter arrives by owl messenger: a letter with an invitation to an incredible place that Harry and anyone who reads about him will find unforgettable.

For it's here that he finds not only friends, aerial sports, and magic in everything from classes to meals, but a great destiny that's been waiting for him...if Harry can survive the encounter.

Reviewed by thepunktheory on

5 of 5 stars

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Book vs. Movie:
I have no idea why it took me so long to read the books, but once I got started, I fell in love instantly. The Philosopher's Stone is written magnificently. It's a lovely read full of amiable (and also odious) characters. J. K. Rowling filled her novel with many smart ideas and created an entire world that appears so real you almost start to wonder why you never got a letter from Hogwarts. She weaves an intriguing tale that will fascinate you. It's composed so cleverly, you will be surprised ever other chapter.
Having such an amazing book at hand, it's difficult to create movie that lives up to it. But Chris Columbus managed to direct a lovely little film that is almost as charming as the book. Especially the casting was done perfectly. I couldn't imagine anyone being a better fit for the roles of Ron, Hermione or Harry. Seeing all of J. K. Rowling's ideas brought to life is simply fascinating.
Although the movie was very well made, the book was even better. I really love Hagrid in the novel version. Favourite character ever!
Dumbledore, however, doesn't feel 100 % right. The feeling he gave me while reading the books isn't captured in the film.

Nevertheless, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone is a great adaptation of an outstanding book.
But believe me, everyone should have read Harry Potter at least once in their life. I consider it to be a book even those who usually don't like to read will love. You don't know what you are missing!


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