Harry Potter

So, have you ever read a book and been sad when you were finished?  Well, I am currently in mourning.  I know I'm quite a bit behind the times on this one, but I just finished the Harry Potter series a couple weeks ago.  Here's a bit of backstory...


Now, I'm going to be completely honest here... when Harry Potter first came out, I thought it was cool that all these kids were going out, getting it, and reading.  I mean, I love reading, and I especially think kids should be encouraged to read for enjoyment.  But I was astounded at how many ADULTS were reading and RAVING about this series.  I was a senior in high school at the time when the first book was released in the U.S. and I had a lot on my mind.  Apparently, though, I was a bit of brat because I thought it was silly and kinda dorky that people my age and much older were reading these books.  I'm honestly ashamed that I used to be that judgmental, but I guess it goes to show that I have grown and matured over the years. Maybe there is hope for me afterall. ;)  Anyway, after some shocked faces from my friends hearing that I hadn't read the series (thanks Jen, Lindsay, and Alison) and my brother generously loaning me his books (thanks Danny), I decided to give it a go.  

Of course, I didn't take long until I was totally encumbered by these books.  I was drawn into this mythical, yet somewhat realistic world.  And by realistic, I mean the themes that we can all relate to--love, loss, forgiveness, redemption, salvation, friendship, etc.  You get to know the characters well, and there always a plot turn or twist to keep you on your toes.  Whenever I thought I had something had all figured out, I was proven totally wrong... which is great because I love being surprised in books!  I know some may disagree with me, but I think J.K. Rowling is a genius!  I've read many books that I've enjoyed, but there aren't many where I CAN'T put them down or I continue on the plot in my dreams.  :)  


So if you're wondering (and even if you're not), my favorites of the seven book series... well, that's tough.  Obviously I loved them all, but I'd have to say that I really fell in love with Prisoner of Azkaban.  Plus, Deathly Hallows is AMAZING!  That books has a lot of action, explains unanswered questions, is haunting, and keeps you on the edge of your seat.  


Eric also just finished reading these books as well.  It's been fun sitting down together at night and both reading our books, even though we were never on the same one at the same time.  We've had a lot of fun discussing our theories on plot ideas, revelations, and how this relates to Christianity.   


So going back to my original statement, having finished this series, I am left with a sense of loss, but in a good way, I guess.  Being that this was a series of seven books that I read back to back, it's hard to just drop it and be done.  It's kind of like the sadness you feel (or at least I felt) after your wedding.  You go through this journey and look forward to the experience of the that day and once it's done, it's done.  After so much anticipation, the day finally comes, and just as quickly as it comes, it is gone.  But in the end, we can always look back and smile with fond memories. :)