Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling

The second book in the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, is primarily about two common feelings: suspicion and worry. These feelings are often experienced by most everyone, just not in the same manner that Harry and his gang are experiencing them in the novel.

This book is about Harry’s second year, with a brief interlude showing how much he much actually wants to get to school, due to his guardians and lack of friends at home. It also gives a taste of the doubts, suspicions, and frustrations that Harry will experience as he tries to figure out what is going on with the Chamber of Secrets. With the warnings given by the most unlikely of creatures, a house elf named Dobby, it creates even more mystery about what the school year will hold.

Even though Hermione is absent during most of the book she still grows very much in this book, foreshadowing how much her logic will play into Harry’s survival. She is not afraid to break the rules if it’s for the greater good, showing that although intellect and education is still  one of her greatest wants, she is not afraid to go out of her way to help out when she feels it’s needed.

Chamber of Secrets is a fast paced novel with many twists and turns. Harry doubts not only his classmates but himself as he learns that one of his magical talents has an evil taint to it. He makes acquaintances with several of the school ghosts including that of an annoying young female ghost.

What is most important to the book is the concepts of friendship and support. No matter what the student body thinks, Hermione and Ron are always on Harry’s side. This novel is full of suspense, suspicion, doubts, and the power of friendship.