When I first opened a Harry Potter book the world around me changed.

1. The series gave me a love of reading. Before my Harry Potter days, reading was a challenge for me and I truly dreaded it. But when I opened to the first page, it all changed. I found that finding a story I loved made all my challenges vanish.

2. The incredible spirit of JK Rowling: taught me to dream without limitations and that hard work pays off.

3. While reading the series I learned that our differences can be our greatest strengths and to appreciate the uniqueness of others.

4. I learned that I wasn't alone in my struggles. Even though Harry Potter is completely fiction, when he was struggling in class or was intimidated by a teacher, the fifth grade version of myself exclaimed, "I'm not the only one!"

5. Kindness and courage get the job done. I was shocked that whatever life through at him, he never turned cruel or weak and it was truly inspiring. He fought his everyday and (not so everyday) battles with a brave face and kind heart; which is the best lesson of all