Somethings not right

[Kelly]

No: HPFGUIDX 80821

Dreadnought wrote:
<SNIP> And I've been thinking about this most of today, because if 
> you're right, it's something I'd feel a need to address in 
discussion 
> with some of the kids I've encouraged to read the books.
> 
> But currently, I'm still thinking that any incidental message the 
books 
> sends on this is a *positive* one.

I want to reply to this.  as the mother of six children (from 2 
months to 21 years), I started reading the Harry Potter series 
because I knew my kids would. Even though I rarely "ban" reading 
material in my house, I make sure I read everything they read so that 
I can address any issues they have.  Therefore, I think it is a great 
vehicle to ask the kids you've encouraged to read the books what they 
think about Harry not telling and why.  It will open some great 
discussions about what they should and could do if they are ever in 
similar situations.  What a fabulous series for parents this is!  I 
have never found another single book or series that can act a vehicle 
to discuss such a wide range of issues with my kids (love, death, 
war, humanity, slavery, abuse, etc.).

I agree that Harry does keep silent about many things that he has to 
endure.  However, I think this is completely in character for Harry 
as well as for many boys (and girls) of this age group.  The 
punishment with the pen was humiliating.  Not many kids will go and 
tell their friends about such a thing.  Personally, it reminded me of 
some of the punishments that were frequently given out at my grade 
school in the 1970's.  Therefore, when I was reading, it occurred to 
me that JKR may have been making a statement against things like 
corporal punishment in the schools -- Umbridge as a  symbol of the 
extreme conservative who wants to bring back the "old ways."

With this said, I can completely see the point that the original 
poster is making.  I, however, don't think that the books are 
encouraging the reader to do as Harry does.  If anything, it will 
make them think "C'mon Harry, tell someone!"  Hopefully, It will make 
them see the futility of keeping a secret that hurts and rethink 
their options if they are in a similar situation.

Kelly