Harry Potter and the sorcerer’s stone By J.K. Rowling

Harry Potter and the sorcerer’s stone  By J.K. Rowling

Illustrations: Mary Grandpre

Scholastics Inc. New York

Copy Right: 1997

(Required Selection)

            Harry Potter is a story that even if they have not read the book, they are familiar with the premise.  A young orphan boy who discovers he is really a wizard.  Travels to wizard school where he not only makes friends, but enemies.  While the summary of the book was very simplistic, the actual story line in very intricate and involved.  The book was filled with magic, mystery, friendship, and courage.  I think the reading level on this book should begin at fifth grade, but lower if reading as a class. One of the great things about this book is that even though some answers are revealed, it leaves other questions making you want to continue reading.

            Students are going to be able to easily make text to self connection with this book, as adults will as well.  We can all relate to times where we have had to be courageous or the happy times of friendship. This book made me think of a very different book for my text to text connection.  I was reminiscent of “the absolutely true story of a part time Indian”.  The stories have nothing in common, but the themes are all very similar.  They are both about young boys who at first struggle with friendship and then revel in it. They are both boys who have to find courage within and must conquer fears.