A Field Guide to Harry Potter - Duriez, Colin. InterVarsity, 2007. 300p. $16.00, paperback. ISBN: 978-0-8303-3430-3. ivpress.com 823.914 Fantasy fiction-Criticism and interpretation. Rowling, J. K. Harry Potter series-Criticism and interpretation. Potter, Harry (Fictitious character).

The series has come to its conclusion, but Harry Potter fans need not despair. Colin Duriez, author of such notable books as A Field Guide to Narnia (InterVarsity, 2004), Tolkien and C. S. Lewis: The Gift of Friendship (Paulist Press, 2003), and The C. S. Lewis Encyclopedia (Azure, 2002), has done it again in his newest guide.

Duriez expertly brings readers into the world of fantasy. A first section includes a biography of J. K. Rowling, key themes in the Potter stories, Rowling's spiritual views, the images of good and evil in fantasy, a history of children's literature and fantasy, and the art of storytelling. The book's second section includes a comprehensive alphabetical guide to beings, things, places, and events in each of the novels. Duriez also includes three appendices covering a synopsis of each of the novels, a timeline of events in the Potter realm, and a list of books to inspire discussion. Primary and secondary sources and an index round out this very readable book.

This will be a welcome addition to congregational libraries that have the Rowling series on their shelves. As one rabbi is quoted as saying, "The 'Harry Potter' books are not just novels. They are modern fairy tales with predominant spiritual themes. They describe the struggle between good and evil and the ultimate triumph of good through courage and ingenuity of the human spirit and the power of human love."

Mary Lou Henneman
Boardman United Methodist Church
Boardman, Ohio