Introduction
After hearing a lot about Harry Potter books from my friends and the press, I garnered the courage to get the first book ’’Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’’. My biggest apprehension was this was a book for kids. After going through the book I have categorized my apprehension as a myth. This book is for all ages, just as exciting to an adult as to a kid. You can check out my review of the first novel at https://mouthshut.com/review/Harry_Potter_And_The_Philosopher’s_Stone_-_J_K_Rowling-73660-1.html. Fastforward to the second novel in the series i.e. Chamber of Secrets, which I went and bought the day the ’’Philosopher’s Stone’’.
Story Backdrop
I just copied this portion from my previous review for the benefit of those who have not read it.
The story is set in slightly semi-modern England. The story takes us to a parallel world of Wizards, who stay along with Muggles(non-Wizards), but have their own secret places and communities. The story concept initially reminded me of Men In Black wherein Aliens disguise like humans. Similarly here Wizards stay among muggles and even intermingle with them, but carry on their traditions separately.
Story
So Harry’s first year in school is over and he back with the Dursley’s. Harry’s time with the Dursley’s is not much different, only this time the Dursley’s are slightly careful of Harry’s magical skills.
But then something, strange happens. An house elf enters Harry’s house and starts begging Harry not to return and when Harry refuses to listen, wreaks havoc much to Uncle Vernon’s chagrin. Finally, the day for which Harry is looking forward to comes and he is on his way again to Hogwarts albeit thanks to a rescue mission arranged by Ron to help Harry escape from the Dursley’s thanks to his flying car. This time around Harry flies to Hogwarts, rather than take the train and is given a royal welcome at Hogwarts by the Whomping Willow.
Somebody does not want Harry to be in Hogwarts this summer, while somebody really evil wants him there. Strange things start happening. Suddenly people start getting petrified (something like coma) and the rumour starts spreading that the dreaded ’’Chamber of Secrets’’ has opened.
What terror lies in the Chamber? Who has opened the chamber? Who does not want Harry to be in Hogwarts? Who wants Harry to be in Hogwarts? Believe me you would kill me if I give answer to any of these questions here. So get of copy of ’’Chamber of Secrets’’ and join Harry is this rollercoaster at breakneck speed.
Salient Points
After reading the first novel, I thought that once the freshness of the concept is over, the novel would not be too great. But after reading ’’Chamber of Secrets’’ I have changed my opinion. J.K. Rowling has kept the freshness of the script and plot. The best part is the great speed at which the novel moves about.
Again the characterizations are perfect. Harry and Ron are growing and that can be seen in this novel. Ron is again at his wisecracking best, Harry is still very lovable character and Hermione is still the loud mouthed nosy character. More Hogwarts secrets are coming out and more personalities in the magic world are now coming into the fray.
Like the first book the attention to details has also been good.
Again like the first book, the ending is too abrupt though. I would have preferred and slightly more detailed ending.
Movie
Chris Columbus has again come up with part II of his movie coverage of the Harry Potter series and has done a great job of this. He has managed to cover the gist of the book in his movie. You can read the review of the movie at https://epinions.com/content_87289335428
Summary
A great followup and the makings of a great series. This book appeals to people from all ages. A little bit of fantasy and a great plot. Thumbs up and 5 star rating for ’’Chamber of Secrets’’.