Michael Gerber (1) (1969–)

I generally love parodies for their irreverence and wicked humor. Having read most of the Harry Potter books, I thought this book seemed promising, poking gentle fun at the series. In fact, it started out in a promising manner. It takes place at the Hogwash School for Wizards, with such characters as Halfwid, Lon Measley, Ermine, Serious Blech, Bumblebore, and the evil Valumart. However, it quickly devolved into puerile invocations of sexual and bathroom functions, with references to "The Chamberpot of Secrets", "Flatulent Fanny" and "The Buggering Birch", and as favorite characters (including venerable teachers and staff) are presented in degrading ways. I could not proceed beyond the first 15 or so pages. I doubt that readers who loved the Harry Potter series will find much to attract them here.… (meer)