November 24

Harry Potter

I think there’s not a SINGLE kid who’s read Harry Potter and hasn’t wanted to go to Hogwarts at some point. If you don’t know what or where that is, you should read Harry Potter. It’s such a good book series.

Anyway, I think all of us who have read that series (or watched the movie, which isn’t half as good) have admired SOMETHING about him. (And if you are a super fan, tried walking into every brick wall at the train station). I’m past 11 and I’m still hoping for that letter of acceptance!

Anyway, here are three successful learner traits that he shows and that we all could work on. Also, be warned. There are spoilers up to the end of the fourth book.

1. Compassion. In every single book (or movie) he has shown his compassion for pretty much everyone except Malfoy and, well, I don’t know, Voldemort. (Not including Dudley.) In the first book he saved Hermione, even though he didn’t like her, from the troll in the girls’ bathroom. In the third book, he spared Peter Pettigrew’s life, even though he killed Harry’s parents. In the fourth book he and Cedric touched the Triwizard cup together instead of only Harry.

2. Risk-Taking. I’m pretty sure we all see the risk-taking in Harry Potter. When he stabbed the Basilisk in the mouth, when he followed Sirius Black (dog version) under the Whomping Willow to save Ron, and many, many other examples.

3. Thinker. We all know Harry Potter doesn’t exactly plan ahead, but that doesn’t mean he can’t be smart. He found out the way to get into the Chamber of Secrets. Also, it takes some real improv thinking to grab a sharp rock on the lake floor to free Ron and Fleur. I mean, he didn’t exactly bring a pair of scissors.

I think Harry Potter shows us all to take risks sometimes. We won’t get anywhere in life if we are afraid to take the next step! He also teaches us to give people second chances, be forgiving, and think on our feet!

If you know anyone with these traits (or other traits too) tell me in the comments!

If you want to see the authors (J.K Rowling’s) official page, click here.