[Warning: While this review doesn't contain out-and-out spoilers, it might have a few hints. Read with caution!]
The ill-informed always have a similar reaction to adults who read the Harry Potter series: “Isn’t that for kids?”
Well, yes, in theory, the series was originally written for children, but, given the millions of grown-ups who have read the books, clearly there’s more going on in J.K. Rowling’s stories about Harry Potter and his friends — and enemies — than greasy kids’ stuff. Young and old readers alike are drawn to the characters, the story, and the world created by Rowling. From Book One to Book Seven, we have grown to know the good, the bad, and even the ugly about Harry, Ron, Hermione, and, in the final book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Albus Dumbledore.
It’s safe to say that the hype surrounding the final book in the series was unprecedented. It’s also safe to say that the hype was justified. J.K. Rowling ended the series on just the right note (okay, in all fairness, some readers might have a quibble or two with the very ending, but that happens after all the thrills and chills are done).
Bad things are happening in the magical world that Harry inhabits — the Dark Lord Voldemort is gaining in power and influence. It is clear that there must be a final confrontation between Harry and You-Know-Who, but is Harry ready to fight? Can one boy save the world? Harry has the necessary confidence, but before he can begin the battle, his world is shaken one, two, and three times.
The ghost of Dumbledore figures strongly in this tale. For the first time, Harry realizes that his hero was human, was once a young man. He also discovers that within truth, there can be lies, especially lies of omission. As the trio of Harry, Ron, and Hermione try to fulfill Dumbledore’s final task, the destruction of Voldemort’s Horcruxes, they find themselves solving bigger mysteries, including the location of the Deathly Hallows. As the three pursue their quest, they find themselves getting off track and frustrated. Dumbledore did not leave a clear path for them to follow.
Rowling takes no prisoners in this book. As promised, characters die. From the beginning the novel, we learn that there will be many innocent victims in this battle. Those most loyal to Harry and the good guys are tested. With each loss, Harry finds the strength to go on, but the more he discovers about what he believes to be true, the more he wonders if he’s doing the right thing.
All moments in this book — in fact, all moments in all of the books — lead to the final confrontation with Voldemort, and Rowling fills the confrontation with tension and emotion. Each and every sacrifice in this great battle is felt deeply by all involved. Expect to cry. A lot.
P.S. - For all of those Neville Longbottom fans out there, go Neville!
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What To Read Next
Now that you’ve finished the Harry Potter series, you’re surely looking for another great series. Try the Wormwood books by G.P. Taylor. Though set in a different world, the stories contain elements of magic and mystery.
