Being a parental couple is hard enough as it is, but being a single parent is even more difficult. Not only do you have to deal with looking after a raising another human, but when you add in the decaying economy, declining job prospects and the rising cost of groceries and gas - you've got a very difficult situation on your hands.
However, this is a situation that plenty of people find themselves in, and Matt Burke, a single father-of-one, has shared his experiences of parenting in a Medium post online. In his post, Matt shared how he would spend his days with his nine-year-old daughter without home internet and luxurious vacations.
According to Matt, he and his little one find enjoyment in sitting down and reading through the Harry Potter series together.
Initially, Burke - who is in his 30s - was sceptical of the series, believing that he was too old to get into it. However, he has now revealed that the books have become a cornerstone in his relationship with his daughter:
"At the time of this writing, we’re halfway through the 2nd book, and we’re having an absolute BLAST reading them together.
"We switch off chapter by chapter reading them out loud to each other while the other reads along in their own copy of the book. This not only allows her to get more used to reading aloud in front of someone, but it gets me directly involved in something she loves, and it gives me the chance to be extra dramatic when I read my chapters and bring myself into the characters in the book, which has proven to be a ton of fun.
"I get to shout and use all the funny voices I’ve accumulated over the years without her looking at me like I’m a total weirdo."
Burke shared the post on Twitter, taking JK Rowling in the tweet.
"I’m a single parent, broke as can be, and reading the Harry Potter series together has become one of the biggest sources of bonding for us. Doubt you’ll come across this or read this piece, but I just wanted to say thanks for the assist."
However, unexpectedly, the post went viral, with plenty of other parents showing their support for the father.
In fact, such was the traction the post was gaining, Rowling caught wind of the story and decided to gift Burke and his daughter the sweetest gift.
"The gifts you’re giving your daughter are priceless and I’m truly honoured that Harry & co are playing a part. DM me your address for a set of signed Potters," Rowling wrote.
It's a lovely gift from Rowling and it will no doubt make Burke and his little one extremely happy. Not only that, but seeing as they're only part-way through the Chamber of Secrets, they still have the best books to come. Enjoy!
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