By now the news of Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince being pushed back until next summer has been received and raged at. The rumors of Radcliffe appearing nude in Deathly Hallows have been drooled over and mocked/enjoyed (no I won’t say which side I’m on for that rumor). And the loyal Potter fans make due with what is available to feed their lusts for all things Hogwarts.

I could go on for pages about the books and films, which would likely bore you all to tears. The fact that I am a happy fan girl of the HP universe still surprises me, as I attempted to avoid the books at all cost. It took a good friend, also a kindergarten teacher to tell me about the books and open my eyes to them. I still drug my feet and didn’t really get into it until I went to see Sorcerer’s Stone after having been awake for over 24 hours. Needless to say I didn’t understand what I was seeing so it was finally time to get the books.

The phrase, “instantly addicted” comes to mind, as I devoured the first book. Since the printing of book four, (Goblet of Fire), I’ve had every subsequent HP novel in my hands on the day of release. I’ve also had them taken from me so I would sleep and was handed tissues when I was crying (Thank gods for a tolerant husband).

JK Rowling created an enduring and endearing universe when she brought Harry Potter to life. The characters, even the owl Hedwig, strike notes of familiarity with many of the readers and everyone has their favorite (McGonagall) hero and most hated villain (Umbridge). What I enjoy most about Rowling’s work is that it inspired children and adults alike to read.

Many of the people who have grown up with, or just enjoyed, the books have moved on to something called “Twilight” but I’m sure their memories of Hogwarts and Quidditch will remain with them always. I know that the whimsically bound books have a place honor on my shelf, and I’m ready to get my hands on the Beetle the Bard book. I hope Rowling will continue to entertain us all through the ages with these timeless books.

Please share your thoughts and opinions about Harry and his world in the comments.