The Ultimate Harry Potter and Philosophy: Hogwarts for Muggles (The Blackwell Philosophy and Pop Culture Series) Review

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(More customer reviews)I whipped through this interesting collection of essays in one day. Examining ancient and contemporary philosophy through the lens of pop culture is not a new idea, but it's one I happily snap up whenever I find it.
In any collection with many writers, there are going to be some essays that are a pleasure to read, that reference the theme well (in this case, of the written world of Harry Potter), and are coherent. There are a few of these better writers sprinkled about the book.
However, too many of the essays in this book are not thematically as on-target as I'd like. Some of the writers are densely wordy and stray a bit far away from Harry Potter and Hogwarts, instead pounding the pulpit of their particular philosophical agenda.
It's fair enough that not all philosophers are also good writers. And some readers may prefer more philosophical meat and less of the 'fun of looking at the Wizarding world' elements that I enjoy. So perhaps there is a balance in this book - something for the pop culture fans, and something for people looking more for a philosophy text.

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A philosophical exploration of the entire seven-book Harry Potter series

Harry Potter has been heralded as one of the most popular book series of all time and the philosophical nature of Harry, Hermione, and Ron's quest to rid the world of its ultimate evil is one of the many things that make this series special. The Ultimate Harry Potter and Philosophy covers all seven titles in J.K. Rowling's groundbreaking series and takes fans back to Godric's Hollow to discuss life after death, to consider what moral reasoning drove Harry to choose death, and to debate whether Sirius Black is a man or a dog.
With publication timed to coincide with the release of the movie Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Part 1), this book will be the definitive guide for all fans looking to appreciate the series on a deeper level.
Covers a range of intriguing topics such as the redemption of Severus Snape, the power of love, and destiny in the wizarding world
Gives you a new perspective on Harry Potter characters, plot lines, and themes
Makes a perfect companion to the Harry Potter books and movies

Packed with interesting ideas and insights, The Ultimate Harry Potter and Philosophy is an ideal companion for anyone interested in unraveling the subtext and exploring the greater issues at work in the story.

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Entwined Review

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(More customer reviews)Entwined is a delightful retelling of the Grimm's fairy tale The Twelve Dancing Princesses. While my taste in fairy tales typically runs more to the evil witch or flesh eating ogre variety, I was quick to recognize all the basic story elements from the original. The book takes place during the year of mourning following the death of the Queen, mother to twelve daughters all named after flowers. The eldest daughter (Azalea), is the primary focus of the tale which details her efforts to take care of her sisters after their mother's death.
Azalea is a wonderful character. First seen at what is essentially her "coming out" ball, we follow her growth from a girl most concerned with balls and dancing to a girl with a strong sense of family and loyalty. All of her sisters are also well portrayed, each having characteristics that will endear them to readers and easily enable them to differentiate between each girl. Clover and Bramble, the two who are next in line following Azalea are each as well developed and eventually have their own roles to play in the story.
There are so many things going on with this story that readers will be entranced from the beginning. The dancing, balls, gentlemen suitors, and gowns will appeal to any young girl who ever fancied herself a princess. There are also elements of magic and adventure, and a villain who provides some genuinely creepy moments. The author does an excellent job creating a believable environment, and while there's not a lot of world building going on, it doesn't detract from a story that is expertly plotted and paced.
This is a great fantasy that transitions well from light moments to chilly moments of genuine peril that will keep the pages turning. There are romantic elements that are not overdone and left me with a big smile on my face, and sinister moments that made me stay up late so I could finish. The entire book has a cinematic quality to it that guarantees a great flow and makes this one a perfect recommend for young fantasy lovers. This is a fantastic choice for grades six and up, or any adult who wishes to remember what reading a great fairy tale feels like. Don't pass this one up. Recommended.

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