Monday, February 25, 2008

The Wisdom of Harry Potter: What Our Favorite Hero Teaches Us about Moral Choices by: Edmund M. Kern



This book defends the Harry Potter books against critics who would like to see them banned.

A couple of quotes show things Mr. Kerns finds admirable:

“…she (Rowling) places Harry and his friends in ethical dilemmas, requiring them to think in complex ways about right and wrong.
…providing full attention to emotional development, one whose chief virtue is old-fashioned constancy. Harry’s resolution in the face
of adversity is the result of conscious choice and attention to what is and is not with in his control. He cultivates himself in order to
help others. Harry worries about who he is, but realizes that what he does matters most.”


“…In the stories, trouble finds Harry, and Harry finds a way through it. Although the stories promise a happy resolution, they make
equally clear that getting there will be tough.”


“…his adventures offer many opportunities for discussions of morality between adults and children. …parents…would be remiss
…not to take advantage.”

No comments: