November 27, 2001

  • Harry Potter


    Over the past couple of years I've recieved dozens of emails and heard multiple speakers who have warned us of the satanic influences in the Harry Potter books.  Some of the emails I recieved purported to contain excerpts from the books that illustrated and substantiated these warnings.  These excerpts were indeed the kind of narrative that I generally try to steer my kids away from.  But they are still young and it hasn't been an issue in my house.  With the movie ads, suddenly they've been asking about the stories and so I've done my parental duty.


    Over the past four days, I've read three of the four Harry Potter books.  Today I'm breathing a little calmer, but I have to say that over the weekend I've been an angry woman.  I don't know who the people are who started the smear campaign against Harry Potter books, but that is exactly what has occurred in Christian circles.


    The letters I received contained "quotes" that are not in any of these books, unfairly characterized the plot and ethical orientation of the books, and drew unfounded theological conclusions.  I don't know who these people are.  I suspect that, like me, many of my friends have avoided the Harry Potter books based on this misinformation.  Shame on the liars who started this.  I'll be happy to discuss the Harry Potter books with anyone who has questions, but I'll ask you please don't use the misinformation that has been circulated to argue with me. 

Comments (17)

  • There is alot of misinformation on the internet and its not the exclusive property of Christians. : )

    God Bless - Dale

  • Censorship has always been promoted by those who are small minded and usually don't have a clue about what they are talking about.

    It's all about fear.  People fear things they don't understand and want you to fear it too.  (it makes them feel better)  By educating yourself you break the chain of fear.

    Christians are not the only ones who want to ban Harry Potter, it so happens that those that do are outspoken. 

    All we can do is pray for understanding and tolerance. 

  • Gee, I dunno, I've heard that especially that last Harry Potter book is especially bad. By "bad" I mean it's heavy enough to cause damage if you drop it on your foot. My children have been blessed with my grace and coordination - It's my job to protect them from such literary impressions.

  • My only objection to the Harry Potter thing was that I wish the movie had been marketer more specifically to the target age group.  I mistakenly took my 3 1/2 yr old and realized too late that it dealt with situations too intense for him.  My 8 yr old loved it!

  • You know that for everyone who has success there is a million ready to tear it down!

    Depraving!

  • People!

  • I'm glad you read the book to find out for yourself!  They are pretty good books.  The kids like them alot.  And its better to read than to be out in trouble!  lol

  • Good for you for reading them and seeing for yourself!  There are so many people willing to judge without the info.

  • Every time something like this comes OUT, Christian circles go up in arms about it. 

  • I have heard the same as you about those books and I don't believe a word of it. People have banned books like Frankinstein and others that I have grown up reading and have enjoyed for many years. It is nice to hear that concerned parents such as yourself read the books first and decide, not just going with public opioion of the book.

    Peachy

  • I loved all 4 Potter books, especially the last one.  My daughter, 11, has read the first 3 of the 2 times each.  My Brother and sister in law think they are bad, but I really don't think either of them has time (or inclination) to find out really...lol. 

  • I don't have little kids at home, but I want to see the movie myself.  I think it looks cute.  My husband, on the other hand, does NOT want to see it.  I guess I'll have to go to the movie by myself the next time he's out of town.

  • Way to go!  There is always more misinformation out there than there is INFORMATION.  It is smart of you to check it out for yourself.  That is what intelligence is, and Madame, you certainly have it!

  • Good for you! I'd be interested in a play-by-play to see what the counter argument is FOR the books. I've only heard negatives.

  • The only real question I have is, how much other stuff that you have believed because people told you to do you check out now to see if it is correct?  Making a single step on a path does not complete the journey of a thousand miles.

  • A friend loaned me the first book, so I'll read it before seeing the movie...

  • The Good Lord is NOT about thought control, so why do people who profess to follow Him practice it?
    hmmmmm
    makes me wonder.

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