I didn't rush out to find the book, not because I didn't trust his review. Rather, I have never been motivated to follow trends and fads.

Apart from seeing bits and pieces about the books from time-to-time, I hadn't thought a thing about Harry Potter until an unscheduled business trip brought us together.

I had been notified one afternoon last year, that I was needed in Birmingham. My flight plans had been scheduled for me. Upon canceling the balance of my week's appointments, I headed for Chicago's Midway airport. Once in Chicago, I realized that I would have quite a bit of time to read. I also realized that in my haste, I had forgotten to bring the book that I had just begun. With minutes to spare, I made my way through the concourse to a small gift shop. Scanning the shelves quickly, I passed the usual Airport offering, and began to think that I would have to read the on-flight magazine when I spotted Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. I grabbed and paid for it, thinking that I could at last see what the fuss was about, and thought that one of my three daughters might read it as well. I darted to the terminal just in time for boarding, and began to unwind for my flight.

I wound up seated next to a very nice woman who appeared to be in her late sixties. She smiled broadly when I sat down and introduced herself. She spotted my new book, and asked how I liked it. I explained that I had just purchased the book and hadn't started to read it. She advised that she and her granddaughter were reading the series together. She then went on to tell me "You will love it. It was the best book that I have ever read."

Once in the air, I opened the book and began to wonder if my expectations would be met. It didn't take long to find out that they would. I read during the entire flight, refusing the offer for on-board refreshments. I also read on the return flight, and finished the book upon returning home Saturday. In fact, I went to the bookstore Saturday afternoon, so that I could purchase the second book in the series. Shortly thereafter, my youngest daughter began reading the series, and ultimately passed me. Harry Potter became evening dinner conversation at our home for weeks, much to the consternation of the other family members who had not joined in our enthusiasm for the stories.

And then I learned of the controversy. Apparently some religious zealots had determined that as the series deals so much with wizardry, it crossed a line in the religious community regarding witchcraft. I assumed that this would fizzle out quickly, and ignored it.

I was reminded of the controversy again last weekend, when my wife and I dined with strangers at a dinner banquet. The subject came up, as the lady to my left was telling our table that her daughters were not permitting their children to read the books because of the relationship to witchcraft. I explained that while I don't claim to be a student of the Bible to a level of which I can debate the matter, I do attend church regularily, and feel that I have a basic understanding of Christianity. And in any case, I know what is in my heart. I went on to say that my opinion of the stories had quite an opposite view. I explained that every lesson in life could be learned in the Potter series. They speak of diversity, respect for others and self, friendship, loyalty and love. And if that weren't enough, the books have caused thousands of children to WANT to read. What could be wrong with that? The lady accepted my point of view graciously, and the subject changed.

The discussion did cause me to reflect on the controversy. It also made me realize that as the author plans to write more books in the series, the debate will probably not end soon. I thought at the time, and still do, that it is a shame that some kids might miss this opportunity to read one of the greatest series of books ever written for children and young adults.

I have never read a series of books that I have enjoyed more. However, I would never presume to tell any parent what is or isn't good reading material for their children. They know their kids best, and it really is none of my business. However if you are unsure about whether the material is suitable, I encourage you to read one of the books. You can borrow one of mine. You'll have a much better understanding of the issue, and who knows, it may turn out to be one of the best books you've ever read.