Please don't chastise me for my lack of Hogwarts' knowledge. This is a true beginner's guide, or more accurately a first impression. When I say that I'm new to the whole world of magic, I mean I didn't even know how to get onto Platform Nine and Three-Quarters at King's Cross Station. Bear with me. 

I fought this series for long enough, and it's time for me to own up to my fault. I was misled to believe that this was a story simply about wands and spells. Although I take pride in recognizing various incantations now, Harry Potter is so much more than that. I just finished watching all of the movies in quite an embarrassingly short timespan, and I can confidently say I'm a fan. 

Before anyone reading this jumps down my throat, I'm fully aware that die-hard fans will turn their noses up at me for having an opinion on this series without reading the books, but that's the point. I'm a beginner. It's honestly quite remarkable that I've barely managed to scratch the surface, and yet I feel completely overwhelmed by it.

The story is fantastic, and I'll leave it at that. With each movie, I became more invested in the characters' lives. I decided to start the series during finals week which was probably not the best idea. I'm sure this comes as no surprise, but the movies tended to take precedence over any sort of studying. 

I was hooked. I thought about it, talked about it, and even dreamt myself practicing Wingardium Leviosa (a Levitation Charm for the other beginners out there). 

As the final movie ran the ending credits, I felt a sense of loss. What now? 

I fell in love with a series that I convinced myself I was going to hate. So to all the people I looked down upon for liking a story about witches and wizards, I'm sorry. You were right. Harry Potter is a story of magic, but more importantly friendship and courage. Speaking directly to the other beginners, give it a real chance. You will be more than pleasantly surprised when you're finished.