Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J. K. Rowling

Unlike its predecessors, it is clear from chapter one that the fifth story is more ominous with high stakes for Harry."

". . . the dark aspects are what make this volume original and ingenious."

It is wise to be familiarized with books three and four because Order of the Phoenix does not give a meticulous recap."

A resurgence of evil brings about disagreement, confusion, lack of trust, dark magic, and of course, mortal peril in the already richly imaginative world created by Rowling in the previous four books. Unlike its predecessors, it is clear from chapter one that the fifth story is more ominous with high stakes for Harry, a now 15-year old who has already seen so much.

Continuing what began in Goblet of Fire, frightening dreams connected to Lord Voldemort consume Harry. His adult allies create an assemblage to track the Dark Lord, but Harry feels isolated as he is kept guarded and out of harm. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Magic and media work to discredit Dumbledore and Harry, denying that a new threat exists. Harry finds loyalty with his younger friends who are exceptionally broadened in dimension and action, and with Rowling announcing the death of a lead character, suspense is high. The fifth book’s gloom comes from teenagers, as well as adults, feeling full force of some gruesome dark magic.

However, the dark aspects are what make this volume original and ingenious. Rowling’s talent lies with making the reader completely empathize for Harry. She creates a bold challenge as Harry’s transition to young manhood remains interesting but agonizing to bear. It is wise to be familiarized with books three and four because Order of the Phoenix does not give a meticulous recap, and Rowling explores various new locations, appealing new characters, a complex history and themes of destiny, to much delight and in quick pace.

Older readers will grasp the satire on government and media while hardcore fans will revel in the new wonderment and ongoing expansion of Harry’s world. Containing something for everyone, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix satisfies lingering questions readers have awaited for three years and yet concludes with electrifying anticipation for what lies ahead.

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Reviewer: Lindsay Moore