I was eight when I read the first of the Harry Potter books, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. Little had I known that those books would make such an impact on my life. It would be a lie if I said I got hooked as soon as I read the first chapter of the first book. My sister had borrowed the book from the Public Library and recommended it to me. According to her, it was the best book she had ever read. Being an avid reader of the Enid Blyton books, I wasn't too sure about the book my sister had handed me. The cover didn't look too appealing nor did the font, which was smaller than the books I usually read. However, I liked to read the same books my sister did so I didn't mind giving it a try.
I read through the first chapter, The Boy Who Lived, and realized that maybe the book was a little too complex for a eight year old. There were owls and old men in cloaks, I didn't get it at all. I gave up but my sister didn't. She read the first few chapters to me and explained the stuff I didn't understand. And that was when I got hooked. I read the rest of the book by myself and couldn't wait to read the next one. My sister and I excitedly read through each book and we loved it to the point that our grandmother, who couldn't read a single word of English, knew about Harry and his magical world. I remember our excitement when my dad brought us Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince the day after it was released worldwide. My sister was extremely thrilled with the idea that she would be one of the first people in the world to read that book. In 2007, when I went to Japan for a summer program, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was released. I didn't spend money on toys or food but rather, saved my pocket money to buy the book from the airport on the way back. It was definitely worth it.
People who don't read much find it strange when I say that a book can change your life. But ask any avid reader, it is completely possible. I think that if I had not read Harry Potter, not necessarily my life, but me as a person would not be the same person I am now. The Harry Potter books weren't just about some magical school where magical things happened. Harry Potter wasn't just a fictional character. I grew up with Harry, Ron and Hermione. I was with them as they fought their battles and vice versa. Being a shy kid at school, the books made sure I was never lonely. Back then, reading was pretty much just a hobby. It helped me get through school and puberty. I enjoyed every adventure with Harry and his friends. As I grew up, I began appreciating J.K. Rowling more. I appreciated the way she wrote and the fact that she had produced those books and an entire magical world out of pure imagination. Looking back on the books now, I can't help but feel thankful towards my sister for making me read them. Those books taught me about friendship, love and death. I can always reread the series no matter how old I am and if I ever have kids, these books will be their bedtime stories. Thank you, Joanne, for making my childhood magical. I know that Hogwarts will always be there to welcome me home.