It was about time I finally read the book! I never was a real "Potterhead", I always enjoyed the movies (although I still haven't seen the last 2, I think ... oh well, I'll definitely watch them soon now!) but never even thought about reading the books. To be honest, now that I finished book 1, I don't even know why! I absolutely loved it! Yes, at times it was a bit "hard" to read - and by that I only mean Hagrid and his weird way of talking in the book - but it's hilarious, thrilling, exciting, magical and just really, really cool.

Hogwarts and the rest of the scenery are fantastic. It's amazing how detailed J.K. Rowling described everything and how well you could imagine it in your head. Yes, the movies are a great help but even without them I think I would have awesome pictures in my head. The different houses, Quidditch, the sorting hat, the mirror of Erised, the invisibility cloak and and and ... such great ideas and honestly, you can only love them and be intrigued.

"It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends."

The characters are also extraordinary. They have beautiful character traits and strenghts and each person is unique. The friendship between Hermione, Ron and Harry is wonderful. When they were first introduced they were completely different but troughout the book and towards the end you could clearly see how much everyone changed and influenced the others. Hermione Granger as the little perfectionist and overachiever that you can count on when you need her the most. Ron Weasley as a loyal, funny and fierce (best) friend that is always by your side and goes through the same stuff as yourself and Harry Potter as the intelligent and brave young boy who fights to protect his friends and Hogwarts, no matter what it costs. They're an amazing trio!

I loved Hagrid and how protective and kind he was to Harry. Professor Dumbledore is the one you look up to and admire because he's so clever and wise. Then there's Malfor and Snape and Voldemort ... everyone's just super cool and interesting to read about!

"The truth." Dumbledore sighed. "It is a beautiful and terrible thing, and should therefore be treated with great caution."

Because I already saw the movie I knew what was going to happen but I didn't remember everything and especially the end surprised me a lot! I just completely forgot about it, so that was very thrilling and exciting. I'm really looking forward to continue the series as soon as possible and I even think I'll like the other books even more! I'm glad I finally gave in and read it! :D

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