This is an insightful glimpse at the Christian themes, symbols, and biblical parallels that reside within the Harry Potter novels. Granger has a clear thesis and purpose, and he develops this conceit well. I have some minor quibbles about characterization in Order of the Phoenix, and I wish that the theological discussion was a bit more complex. That said, the book appeals well to its audience--conservative Christians who don't read much outside Christian books or the Classics--using language they will understand and consider. ( )

Millions of children, even Christian children, are reading the mega-selling Harry Potter book series and are exposed to the Harry Potter movies. John Granger, a devout Christian, teacher of classic literature, and father of seven children, first read the Harry Potter books so he could explain to his children why they weren't allowed to read them. After intense study, however, he became convinced that the books are underestimated as literature--and reflect important Christian truths. In Looking for God in Harry Potter, Granger gives parents and teachers a roadmap for using the Harry Potter books to teach Christian truth to children.

Absolutely brilliant! This book was written after five Harry Potter books had been published, and updated after the sixth. It looks at the clear Christian themes running through the series, alongside the alchemical literary formulae, and the reasons why they were so resoundingingly popular. Answers all the (generally feeble) arguments from a few fundamentalist Christians, and shows how valuable the Harry Potter books are in teaching positive Christian worldview and ethos.

I'd spotted a few general trends, but this book opened my eyes to so many fine details, I was open-mouthed in admiration. A lot of the predictions for book 7 (the most overtly Christian of all) were exactly right.

Highly recommended. ( )

A very interesting look at the Christian symbolism hidden in the Harry Potter books! I recommend this book to any parent who is worried that HP is teaching your children to practice witchcraft & such -- you'll change your mind. ;o) ( )

This book is one of my favorite pieces of meta. I'm a Christian attending/working at a Christian college, and a huge fan of the Harry Potter series. This book is interesting to read there - it's certainly a conversation starter.

Granger (no relation to the character by the same name) goes in depth looking at the Christian imagery and heritage of the Harry Potter books. The topics he writes on range from the imagery of alchemy to the choices one makes affecting one's life and one's walk with God. Granger's theology is sound, based directly on the Bible, and not necessarily on any one denomination or theologian. ( )