The Harry Potter franchise began not too long ago when Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (entitled Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in the U.K.) was published. J.K. Rowling had no idea that the orphan she created would become an incredibly popular character. Harry, like so many other literary figures, was unaware of his abilities and future in Rowling's first novel. His relatives, the Dursleys barely tolerate the orphan, permitting him lodging under their staircase. One day, letters of invitation arrive, addressed to the seemingly unknown young man. Potter has been welcomed to join the student body of Hogwarts
School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Despite the Dursleys' efforts to keep Harry from connecting with the school, a representative arrives to make certain the invitation is received and accepted. The Hogwarts representative turns out to be Hagrid, a gentle half-human, half-giant, and the school's caretaker. Harry learns that his parents were magical folk and that he is a wizard whose forehead was scarred by his parents' murderer, Lord Voldemort. Voldemort's attack on Harry left him weak, basically a spectre. The boy does not focus on this news as he is too excited. Soon, he'll begin his new life. There only remains one impediment for Harry to overcome. He needs to find Platform 9 ¾ at the
train station to board the Hogwarts Express train. Fortunately, there are other Hogwarts students at the station. Harry quickly sees them. He makes the acquaintance of the Weasley Family, their son, Ron being Harry's age. Harry, Ron and a new acquaintance, Hermione go through the Sorting Ceremony upon reaching Hogwarts and are placed in the same academic house, Gryffindor. Next, there are various teachers to sort out. Professor Snape, the Potions Master seems to barely tolerate Mr. Potter. Harry returns the sentiment. In addition to lessons and Snape's sneers, of course there is a mystery to solve. The friends need to learn the whys, what and whereabouts of the Sorcerer's Stone, able to reenergize Voldemort. Thwarting the attempts of Hagrid's pet three-headed dog, Fluffy to have them as a snack, the trio press on. Ron is injured and Hermione stays with him, while Harry continues the search. Happily, Harry finds the Stone. Professor Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher arrives unexpectedly. Harry soon understands why. Voldemort, his spectral nemesis has been living on the back of Quirrell's face. A brief battle leaves Quirrell dead and Voldemort again without substance. The decision is made to destroy the Sorcerer's Stone. Harry's first year at Hogwarts ends and the wizard realizes there will be more adventures.
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