We then meet three Harry Potter fans who talk about the appeal of the books and with them we explore the key features of the stories listed below.

Platform 9 ¾
This platform at King's Cross Station is the place that gives Harry and his friends access from the mortal Muggles' world into the world of witchcraft and wizardry. On location at the station, the three presenters talk and search for the barrier where platform 9 ¾ could be. They wish that the same magic would transport them into the parallel world of Hogwarts. Rowling writes at the edge between fantasy and reality, and transports the reader from one world to the next. We experience the same tension as Harry, when he approaches the unmarked platform. He is full of doubt because he cannot believe that when he runs at the barrier he will pass through to Platform 9 ¾ where the Hogwarts Express is waiting.

The children discuss the books with each other and the magical elements of the story as 'young children's dreams on paper'. But the Hogwarts students are based in reality and have to work for their achievements in anything from magic to quidditch.

Boarding school adventure
The trio's next visit is to a boarding school steeped in tradition in much the same way as Hogwarts. Pupils from the school join them for a chat about what life is like as a boarder and agree that their school is as near as you could get to Hogwarts without the magic! They discuss the accuracy of Rowling's descriptions of such establishments and that it is these that help give the books their credibility. Again, there is a sense that all these children are captured by the fantasy world that Rowling has created and wish they could be a part of it.

Quidditch
All the children get together and have a fast and furious quidditch match which sadly is not airborne! This is a great idea for basing a similar game for children to play at school. After their match, the children talk about the significance of quidditch in the stories, a craze that has seized the wizarding nation, which again adds another layer of credibility to the fantasy world. The detail given in the lead-up and the playing of matches at Hogwarts draws the reader in to share the excitement and disappointments of players and spectators alike.

Magical beasts
In order to find out more about owls such as Hedwig the children visit a hawk conservancy and ask all sorts of questions about owls. The children reflect on the relationship that Harry has with Hedwig, and on the magical nature of owls.

Scary bits
The intrepid fans are found in a dungeon - a good location for exploring some of the scary bits of the Harry Potter stories. The children agree that a big part of the appeal of the stories is the danger and suspense which can make the reader almost too frightened to read on at times! They suggest that the stories are getting darker as they progress, as Voldermort is getting closer to killing Harry. They talk about how Rowling doesn't protect the reader from 'seriously' evil elements, so they share in Harry's fear. They are aware that the evil is getting stronger but up until now, good - in the form of Harry and his friends - has always countered it!