I am a 38 year old Christian mother of 2, and I am also a huge fan of the HP series. While my own pastor doesn’t approve of the HP tales, I have read them over and found them to be mostly wonderful from a Christian point of view. The main issue I had with them was the use of tarot cards, but overall, the art of divination is made fun of through Prof. Trelawney. The witchcraft in HP is nothing like wicca or satanism. It doesn’t teach you how to do “real” magic as the characters have to be born into it – it’s in their DNA. There are issues with how some adults are not treated with respect, but much of that is due to how Harry has been treated by those people (such as Uncle Vernon and Prof. Snape).

The story itself is excellent for showing how children act and think, how they grow and become adults, and how love and redepmtion play out. I understand some people’s worry over the series, but I have to say that I’m glad you’re allowing him to make some of those decisions on his own. My 9 year old likes some things I don’t care for, but as long as I know what he’s reading and he understands how to see those things from a biblical perspective, I believe it’s helpful to the Christian cause. There is nothing more frustrating to hear a Christian bash something only to find out they’ve no clue what they’re talking about, and they’re only repeating the words of a pastor or well-known, well-loved figure (like James Dobson).

If you would like to discuss anything further, you may message me on my myspace account, and I’ll be glad to answer anything for you.

Blessings on you and your family,

Miki

http://www.myspace.com/jennifermikelle

I just read your post. I am a 29 year old Christian and i absolutely LOVE the HP series…as far as i am concerned, the books are NOT teaching children witchcraft, how to brew potions, or anything of the nature…if anything, the themes throughout (especially in the 7th book) are similar to the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe — love conquers all, sacrifice for your loved ones, etc. — also, i am very close to my pastor and his son (who is 16) — his son is also a huge fan of the series — so if my pastor doesn’t see anything wrong with them, i don’t either — hope this helps! you can email me at mpittman@staffing.net — have a great day!