Madeline and David discuss the divisive character of Severus Snape, and how he is first presented to the reader.

We settle on a new and improved format for the show, and discuss the feasibility and shortcomings of a House-based system such as exists at Hogwarts. We recommend that new listeners begin with this episode.

David and Madeline discuss Rowling's excellent characterization of the Weasley family and others we meet in this chapter.

Your hosts investigate the reader's first entry point into the wizarding world, and how it is described through Harry's eyes.

We discuss the first real revelatory moment of the series, as well as all of the characters' reactions to it. How they respond may say a lot about them.

Your hosts discuss the clever way the author writes a certain character unraveling emotionally, and how everyone else reacts to this.

We delve into chapter two of the book, discussing the shift in perspective and the many new characters we're introduced to.

The hosts take a look at the first chapter of Philosopher's Stone, examining plot elements, characters, and the way the author chooses to introduce the story and the world of Harry Potter.

In this very short pilot episode, we discuss the scope of the podcast, and give a disclaimer about our earliest episodes. New listeners will definitely want to start here.