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| Purchase: Amazon | Chapters |
Published: 2007
Pages: 607
ISBN: 9781408810293
Genre: Series, YA/fantasy
Start Date: July 29, 2011
Finished Date: Aug. 2 2011 (5 days)
Where Found: Chapters-Indigo
Why Read: On my TBR list
Summary: In what would have been Harry's 7th and final year at Hogwarts, he and his friends hide from Voldemort and his Death Eaters while attemping to solve the mystery of the Horcruxes that will bring an end to the destructive mayhem of the Dark Lord.
Review:
How do you say goodbye to a series as beloved as this one? I would think that the most effective way is to write the last book as an incentive to go back and re-read the entire series again. If I didn't have a big TBR shelf and a huge TBR list waiting for me, I wouldn't hesitate to do just that.
Harry, Ron, and Hermione are at their most mature state, their minds and talents honed to an adult level, and with an understanding that it is ultimately up to them to restore peace to Hogwarts. The lead-up to this point is admittedly but purposefully slow as they hide out from Death Eaters and skeptical Hogwarts friends, but once they uncover the first Horcrux, it's a nonstop ride to the end.
The battle at Hogwarts has a few sad moments but is well-written and a great testament to the students' and teachers' will to fight for their school and livelihood. The scene between Harry and Snape is the most touching, memorable moment in the book and one of my favourites in the series. Many revelations, changes, and, unfotunately, fatal sacrifices ensue until the very end. The epilogue is a real treat as we find out the fates and futures of major characters, which cannot fail to bring a smile to your face.
I have to re-read this series sometime to see hints of later books I missed in the earlier ones as so many characters and events are re-examined in a different vein, owing to the brilliant imagination of J.K. Rowling.
So, how do I account for the series? When it boils down to it, ordering the books from my most to least favourite, here is my list:
1) Philosopher's Stone (#1)--for me, nothing can top the very first step into this world
2) Deathly Hallows (#7)--a beautiful way to say goodbye
3) Prisoner of Azkaban (#3)--the most exciting, twisted plot
4) Order of the Phoenix (#5)--lots of important back story and a killer villain (Umbridge)
5) Goblet of Fire (#4)--entertaining new cast of characters and a milestone in the series plot
6) Half-Blood Prince (#6)--interesting backstory and tragic stepping stone to the conclusion
7) Chamber of Secrets (#2)--enjoyable romp
Also, as promised, I am posting my top 10 list for each Harry Potter book immediately after this review posts. Enjoy!
Rank: (A+)- A fitting conclusion to a magical adventure
Yeay, you finished the series!! I took a break after the 4th ..not sure when I'll continue it. btw, I didn't read this review 'cause it might spoil it for me. :)
ReplyDeleteI knew you would love the whole series! I'm so glad you did.
ReplyDeleteJinky~ Hope you'll keep it going. It's easy to remember the plots of previous HP books if you take a break. Just skim the chapter titles & it should come back to you :)
ReplyDeleteMelissa~ Yes, me too :)