Harry Potter has captivated the imagination of millions of children. And Harry Potter has caused controversy in churches and schools. What's a parent to do with the magical, mystical world of Harry and his friends?
Gina Burkart chose to read the books with her own children. As they read together, she discovered many parallels between Christian faith and the themes of these books. Indeed, the escapades of Harry Potter sparked significant conversation between Burkart and her kids.
In this helpful, entertaining guide, Burkart shows how Harry Potter fits into the tradition of fairy tale writing and how this type of literature aids in building a moral framework. She highlights specific situations and emotions from Harry's world that children face in their own life, such as
fear, anger, bullies, diversity and the choice of good over evil.
Instead of magic words or easy answers, Burkart offers solid, practical advice for helping parents and children navigate Harry Potter's world--and our own--together.
"Gina Burkart has delivered a book that will help parents delve into valuable themes within the stories so that we can have a wonderful shared learning experience as a family. I find Gina to be genuine in her faith in Jesus Christ, intelligent, articulate, well versed in both the Bible and Harry Potter, and--most memorably--passionate about passing on good values to her own children. I find in her a kindred spirit."
"Here is the first Christian book to specifically explore how to use the Potter novels as springboards for moral discussions with kids."
Foreword by Connie Neal
Introduction
Part One: What Children Can Learn from Harry Potter
1. The Harry Hype
2. More Than a Story
3. The Modern Fairy Tale
4. Discussing Fantasy with Children
5. Morals, Not Magic
6. The Real Issues in Harry Potter
Part Two: Talking About Harry Potter with Your Children
7. Dealing with Traumatic Experiences
8. Facing Fears
9. Battling Bullies
10. Delving into Diversity
11. Hiding Hurts
12. Letting Go of Anger
13. Getting Help
14. Choosing Good over Evil
15. The Power of Love
16. Facing Spiritual Battles
Notes