From School Library Journal
Adult/High School—It is perhaps the breadth and diversity of these essays that leave the collection feeling slightly uneven but allow various types of readers to browse it with some satisfaction. The selections are by professors, psychoanalysts, graduate students, and clinical psychologists. Robin Rosenberg's "What Do Students Learn from Hogwarts Classes?" seems a well-suited (and entertaining) addition to the syllabus of an education major, not "just" a Potter enthusiast. Some of the genuinely good pop-psychology fun comes from essays on such topics as Dobby and self-mutilation; Lord Voldemort and antisocial personality disorders; the romantic attachment styles of Ron, Harry, and Hermione; and, yes, even Harry Potter therapy (step-by-step instruction on "learning to cast positive spells of thought instead of negative"). This book would be an innovative choice for educators looking to engage older students of literary criticism or theoretical psychology; it's a hit-or-miss indulgence for fans of the series.—Shannon Peterson, Kitsap Regional Library, WA
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Book Description
** COMPLETELY UNAUTHORIZED **
Leading psychologists delve into the world and characters of Harry Potter in this revealing look at J. K. Rowling's constructed universe, using the characters and their puzzling situations to offer insight into real-world psychology. Designed to appeal to both fans of pop culture and students of psychology, this unique blend of scholarship and contemporary criticism consists of essays by professional psychologists hailing from schools and clinical practices throughout the world. Every major area of psychology is covered as the contributors tackle such heady questions as Is Harry a cranky adolescent or suffering from real post-traumatic-stress disorder? Is Voldemort evil incarnate or a misguided boy now twisted beyond recognition? and Is Snape treacherous or struggling for redemption?, revealing the fictional world's complex psychological brew.
