Harry Potter has lived with is uncle, aunt and horrible cousin since he was a baby. His parents died shortly after he was born and he has no recollection of them, although he loves his parents unconditionally - probably because he is clearly not wanted by his remaining relatives. One day Harry discovers he is a wizard and that there is a whole new world waiting for him. He can leave his miserable life and embrace the magic that lives in him.

When I read this book for the first time, which was almost 20 years ago, I didn't enjoy it nearly as much. Maybe because I read it in Portuguese. But now reading the original words and seeing those beautiful illustrations, it took my breath away. What a great book to read over and over again! I loved how Harry forged his friendships, how children are so sure of the truth, and how love keeps it all together. And I was delighted in discovering that Dumbledore is adorably nuts, I had not realised that before! This is a great beginning to a magnificent series. I was missing it without knowing it.