JK Rowling
Scholastic
759 pages
Hardback
ISBN:0-545-02937-6
5 Stars
Critique by: SG Cardin

SYNPOSIS:

As the book opens, Harry leaves the Dursleys for the last time, and is hidden with Ron’s family until Bill and Fleur’s wedding. After the chaos of the wedding, Harry, Hermione, and Ron go after the remaining horcruxes left by Voldemort. It’s not an easy journey. The Horcrux of the necklace leaves everyone on edge. With the help of a silver doe patronus, Harry and his friends, slowly, yet methodically find and destroy the horcruxes. Harry then confronts Voldemort at Hogwarts castle in the final battle between good and evil in the wizarding world.

CHARACTERS:

(main) Harry, Hermione, Ron, Voldemort, Snape

Harry, despite his own doubts and fears, keeps his attention focused on the mission. While he has his faults, his loyalty and bravery shine through in this novel.

Hermione is a faithful friend to Harry. I really liked her strong backbone in this book.

Ron was at his most annoying when he left Harry and Hermione in the middle of the Horcrux quest. While he does redeem himself, the character can’t overcome the stigma of running out on Harry for this reader.

Snape’s motivation is revealed at last! It’s unexpected and a sweet treat to look into his character. He’s so flawed, yet so human in the end.

Voldemort lacks the one thing which Harry possesses in order to defeat the dark lord – love.

DIALOGUE

Crisp and sharp. It moves the story forward well. There’s a nice blend of dialogue and narration.

PLOT & PACING

The book starts out with the action of Harry leaving the Dursleys. There’s just enough time for the reader to catch their breath before Rowling takes Harry on another fast-paced ride.

DESCRIPTIONS

It’s easy and not overwhelming to visualize Rowling’s world in the reader’s mind.

THOUGHTS & IMPRESSIONS

Definitely a page turner. The book grabs the reader’s attention and doesn’t let it go until the last page.