es, I admit it.  I have succumbed to the Harry Potter craze.  Why?  For openers, I had to understand what the draw was of this children's series.   Several months ago, bookstores were mobbed with the release of the fourth book in the series.  All four books were on the reading list of college students as reported in the September 8, 2000 issue of The Chronicle of Higher Education.  Furthermore, the author has received many literary awards for the books.

       So who is Harry Potter?  The lead character of the series is an eleven year old orphan raised in less than harmonious circumstances by an aunt and uncle and forced into sharing hand-me-downs from his cousin of the same age.  But in this first book, Harry's life changes when he learns of his admission to Hogwart's School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.  Young Harry's adventures begin.

       The reader is swept along into Harry's magical world which is as new to Harry as it is to the reader. There is a giant named Hagrid and owls serve as mail carriers.  The Hogwart's train leaves from an invisible Track 9 3/4 and students relish the game of Quidditch.  Professors Dumbeldore and Snape are examples of the professorial staff populating the academic world of Hogwart's.  Naturally, the general education requirements are quite different from those found in the traditional academic setting.  Perhaps, however, Defense Against the Dark Arts might qualify as an elective.

       Of course, there is a mystery; and, of course, Harry solves it.  As a character, Harry is depicted as the "good," fighting the evil and unfairness of his world.  He is also loyal to his friends, somewhat shy,  inquisitive, and quite grateful for his place at Hogwart's.  He finally sees himself as "fitting in."

       I won't join the argument of Professor Zipes of the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and Professor Kenner, professor emeritus at the University of Georgia.  But if you're looking for a fun book for the twelve year old, twenty-two year old, or forty-two year old reader on your gift list, you might consider the first book of the Rowling series.  Who knows?   Another aficionado of Hogwart's may be in the making!