User blog comment:JoePlay/Wizarding World Giveaway/@comment-4169915-20110719150431

I was 8 years old when the first Harry Potter novel was released. I remember reading it and being absolutely floored. Not only was there an amazing new world, but I found that I could really relate to the characters. Though, sadly, no Hogwarts acceptance letter made it's way to my door when I turned 11, I still found myself growing with the characters. As Harry and his friends were growing up, I was too, and I could relate to all of the awkward phases that came with it. Now, as an adult, I find that I can also relate to the older characters as well. There really is something for all ages here. This series really provides, not only, an escape from the real world, but it promotes so much imagination. Like many other fans, Harry Potter touched and influenced me in so many ways and on so many different emotional levels that it is rather hard to answer what it means to me. It means so much to me. Some of the biggest things that this series has taught me are to never give up, to look past the bad in people and find the good, and to always use your imagination. Harry Potter and J.K. Rowling really are an inspiration to us all.