If ever a book took the literary world by storm, it’s the Harry Potter franchise. First published in 1997, the series of seven books and eight movies have been engrossing readers and viewers alike for over twenty years. The story incorporates many coming of age themes like complicated friendships, budding love interests, and self-discovery spun into a fascinating world of enchanting magic and captivating mystery. But, there can be no good without evil, and like every great tale, the novels also boast some slightly sinister and menacing content like bullying, tragic loss, and inherent evil. While some of these factors, accompanied by the lengthy Harry Potter word count have parents shying from the series, the books have proven to be a positively influential and essential part of many childhoods. If your kids are of the right age and you have the time, we recommend it wholeheartedly. Here’s why:
Friendship
In a society filled with empty online friendships and meaningless, instant gratification, the Harry Potter books remind us of the importance of substantial and invaluable relationships and the effort it takes to maintain them. The first book takes us through the budding friendships between the three main character, Harry, Ron, and Hermione and furthermore, the relationships they make with their classmates. Through the rest of the novels, the relationships are put through a series of complicated ups and downs, but in the end, their many companionships become the only way to triumph over evil.
Female Strength
You’d think it would be outdated by now, but girls are still taught to believe their worth comes from their beauty. Luckily, there are significant forces at work trying to alter societies existential misunderstanding of the female role. Author J.K. Rowling didn’t miss a beat by incorporating many robust female lead characters in the novels. Main character Hermione is not only strong and independent but also a genius amongst her peers, even battling an ongoing form of magical racism against half-human, half-wizard students like herself.
Education
The backdrop for the entire series is Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where the headmaster and teachers are some of the most brilliant and respected individuals in the magic world. The series wraps around the students and their studies, which are considered to be of the utmost importance and just like friendship, the lessons they learn through their instructors and classwork ultimately serve them in dire scenarios.
The series is anything but traditional and yet, the lessons it teaches are timeless. Whether you are considering Harry’s control and tolerance throughout his unfortunate childhood circumstances, the unconventional displays of family, or the incredibly bold and honest scenes of bravery fueled by fear, the novels tell a tale of overwhelming success and developed confidence in the face of adversity. These are vital lessons we all learn throughout adolescence, introduced to our children warmly through a gripping story of heroism, industriousness, and unity. The incredible novels are sure to instill a lifetime love of reading in future generations for years to come, and maybe even inspire your own child to be independent and brave in times of difficulty themselves.
For more tips on inspiring creativity and confidence in your child, check out our blog!
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