User blog comment:JoePlay/Wizarding World Giveaway/@comment-4166614-20110718230307

Harry Potter is something that I truly feel cannot be summed up in one single comment, but I'll certainly give it a try. To me, Harry Potter is not just a book, nor a series of remarkable films. I began reading the books when I was nine years old. I had received the first book for Christmas. Not a very avid reader I was a bit skeptical about giving this book a try, but the young boy on the cover (who I slightly resembled) enticed me into reading. I'll never forget that day for as long as I live. December 26th, 1999 is the day my life began to change for the better.

Harry Potter was there with me every step of the way as much as I was with him. I connected with these characters on a level I have never experienced with any other piece of literature I've picked up since. Harry Potter showed me reading can be more than words on paper. Harry Potter inspired me to begin writing plays. It has shown me that I am not so bad for being different. It taught me how to love, respect, and forgive. It taught me I can find a laugh in even the hardest of times. It showed be me that even the most unlikely can be the ones that change the world. It helped me connect with my parents. It helped me connect with myself. It taught me to believe.

When I think of Harry, Ron, Hermione, Fred, Dobby, Mr. Ollivander, Professor Trelawny, and even Dedalus Diggle, I don't think of characters. These people are my friends. Friends who have been with me for more than half of my life. Friends that I cannot wait to introduce to my children and watch them grow up together. To me Harry Potter is love, friendship, wonder, laughter, comfort, and joy. Harry Potter is my favorite book. Harry Potter is my best friend. Above all, Harry Potter, is magic.