BOOK REVIEW | THE HARRY POTTER SERIES BY J.K. ROWLING

First. Don't judge me! I have never in my life read, or felt the desire to read the Harry Potter Series until now. Now that I have kids. Don't get me wrong, I was 13 years old when this came out, and I was more interested in Jr. High politics and craziness than reading. So here I am 30 years old... reading the most loved series in the world for the first time. It's been AMAZING to say the least. Please keep reading for my mini reviews on each book. I wish I would have read them as a kid, my kids are going to love these stories. Better late than never, right?

Series Information:

Harry Potter
Author: J.K. Rowling
Overall Rating: ★★★★★
Genre: Children's / Teen Fiction
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Published: 2013

Original Publication: 1997-2007
Format: Paperback

Edition: 15th Anniversary Edition 2013

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Book 1)

Pages: 310
Rating: ★★★★★

For a first time Harry Potter reader, I was taken into this world by surprise and so happy with what I found. Harry, a kid who just got some crappy cards in life. Finding out he's a wizard, at eleven years old. What a great day! To get away from that horrid family.. embarking on a new path in life and creating the foundation for some pretty epic friendships and adventures. This first book in this series really tugged at my heart. It made me think of my youth and the obstacles you have to overcome when you're just trying to figure things out and who you can trust. Having friends is so important. This story is starting out great. Magical, beautiful and I just want more.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Book 2)

Pages: 341
Rating: ★★★★☆  

I finished book 2 of the Harry Potter series and I find myself asking WHY didn't I pick these up all those years ago?! It is such a good series and this book was so awesome to read. Harry's character is so innocent and you just see how he appreciates all that he has gained. It's such a great story. The funny situations Harry and his friends get themselves into. I found myself laughing at some points in the book. Its a fun read. My kids are enjoying it with me. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets is a story about bravery and loyalty. I enjoyed it very much! 

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Book 3)

Pages: 435
Rating: ★★★★★

This one is my favorite in the series. It really gives you a great background on Harry's life and more insight to the people that loved him and his parents! It tests friendships and shows people for what they really are. The story took so many twists and turns I just couldn't put it down. I'm so glad I decided to read this series. It's not just magical stories, it really shows how Harry triumphs over his own fears and confronts them full force. 

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Book 4)

Pages: 734
Rating: ★★★★☆

Finally finished this beast! I've been in a reading slump just trying to get through this series. I enjoyed this one very much. The story just pulls you in. I spent all weekend just getting into this book and I finished it, finally. This one was fun. I love seeing how the Characters are growing and developing other relationships. I was disappointed with the movie though, so many of the best details were left out.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Book 5)

Pages: 870
Rating: ★★★★★ 

This book was EPIC. I can only imagine the next two will blow my mind. Harry Potter, just a boy struggling with this lifelong blessing/curse of being “the boy who lived”. So much on this poor kids shoulders on top of going through adolescence. In this story he struggles through girl problems, and hard decisions, with his friendships, and his loyalty. The story took me through every emotion I could think of! I was very happy with the ending and the story building throughout the entire book. Harry deals with scrutiny not only from fellow students and even some of his own friends but also his entire world. He deals with being an outcast and being such a young kid already having gone through much more than anyone his age should go through he survives all the heartaches and tragedy. The story took me from being curious, slow moving at first and the 2^nd half of the book had me mesmerized, I couldn’t put it down. I cried, I laughed… I could NOT believe the ending. It was fantastic. 

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (Book 6)

Pages: 652
Rating: ★★★★☆ 

This book took me by surprise. The things that take place in this installment of the Harry Potter series were unexpected! I had lots of feels throughout the journey and adventures in this book. I have grown very close to the characters. Things seem to be falling into place. I enjoy Harry’s braveness and the friendships he has built with Hermione and Ron. He’s connecting with others as well, and I for one am super happy he’s growing into a brave man. This story is great. The ending most definitely was shocking. I couldn’t believe what happened. I’m hoping book 7 wraps everything up and doesn’t leave me needing more! 

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Book 7)

Pages: 800
Rating: ★★★★★

OOOOOOOOh my goodness. So much happened. So many answers. So much amazingness. This was such a great story. The epilogue just make life! I cried. Such a freaking great ending to this series. So many secrets revealed. I'm so happy I picked up this series. It was PERFECT.