[OtterBooks]

As an example of how craft can be viewed independently: I feel that the Harry Potter books have uninspired themes, lack originality even when you consider all stories are derivative to some extent, and are shallow in character and concept.

But I think Rowling is skilled writer and storyteller so far as craft goes, to the point where the above shortcomings can be forgiven to some extent. I don't, however, think her work deserves mention anywhere near a conversation that includes substantial childrens authors such as Madeleine L'Engle or Frances Hodges Burnett, or even contemporaries like Philip Pullman. Maybe I'm just narrow-sighted and someday people will see it otherwise. My appreciation of literature is far from perfect.

I actually read a bit of Twilight just to satisfy my curiosity. I didn't think it was as badly written as some people say (just regarding the prose itself). It seemed about as well written as an average pulp romance novel, which is still far better than anything I could do, but that isn't saying much.