User blog comment:JoePlay/Wizarding World Giveaway/@comment-4183365-20110721201559

Much like the kids in the movies, I grew up with Harry Potter. I was a big reader when I was a kid so when I received the first three books for Christmas when I was 11, I couldn't put them down. I waited and waited eagerly for the following books and would do nothing except read them until I had finished them, often staying up through the night to do so. Harry Potter instilled in me a sense of worth and a sense that I could do anything with my life. Harry and his friends always did the right thing no matter how difficult the task ahead. Though oftentimes they might have been scared or unsure of themselves, they plunged forward, a lesson we could all take to heart. In addition, Dumbledores words of wisdom to Harry often helped me in my daily life. Growing up I struggled a lot and as an adult I still struggle but these books have helped me escape and renew myself. The books are also just fine examples of excellent writing. They are precise and perfectly constructed down to every last detail (minus the bit about the snowy owl). JK Rowling is a master of her craft and her personal struggle has inspired me to keep going because no matter what happens in my life things can get better just like they did for Rowling. When I look back on my childhood and even the beginning part of my adulthood I will always think of Harry Potter and I will continue to turn to Harry Potter for guidance as I grow older. As Dumbledore said, "Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light"--Lumos!