Harry Potter Discussion Thread-Spoiler Alert!!!

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okeefecl

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Well, I've finished re-reading the book, and I still liked it a lot. I think I'll have to start from the beginning, and work my way through all of the books (that should kill a couple weeks until the next book comes out
)

But on re-reading it, I noticed something interesting. We saw James and Sirius torturing Snape for being different (I still have problems with that). In this book, Harry and co. meet up with someone just as strange and different-Luna Lovegood. They make fun of her behind her back in the beginning, but at the end she's the only person not from Gryffindor who goes to rescue Sirius. And when Harry finds her posting the notice about her missing things, he feels pity and sadness for her. Also, Dumbledore's Army consists of kids from all of the Houses except for Slytherin (although I believe Harry and Draco will have to work together in the future to fight Voldemort). It seems like the kids are working past some of the bigotry their parents had-maybe this will help defeat Voldemort?
 

deb25

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Well, I just finished book 5, and OMG, was it ever good! I actually need to reread book 4. I admit that in certain parts I didn't pay the best of attention.

McGonagall was absolutely awesome in this book. She has always had a bit of a 'bite' to her, but vs. Umbridge she was supreme. Some of her comments (Dear, are you sure I can't get you a cough drop?) had me LOL!

Fred and George Weasley, always 2 of my favorites, were finally given a substantial role in this book. I only hope when, and if, it ever comes to the screen, they aren't slighted, like they have been so far. I sure am going to miss them around Hogwarts, but their exit was second to none.

I am disappointed that the true nature of Delores Umbridge's sadism wasn't brought to Fudge's attention. I couldn't believe that it was she who set dementors on Harry.

You had to love that old Mrs. Figg was watching over Harry, and three cheers to Petunia for finally making a good choice, helped by the Howler, of course.

I am hoping to see a return of Sirius in some fashion, but I am afraid that won't happen.

Finally, Dumbledore. I so loved when in the heat of battle, he still calmly addresses Voldemort as "Tom".

Can't wait for book 6. I have heard it won't be quite the wait, as Rowling was actually working on both.
 
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okeefecl

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Originally posted by Deb25
Fred and George Weasley, always 2 of my favorites, were finally given a substantial role in this book. I only hope when, and if, it ever comes to the screen, they aren't slighted, like they have been so far. I sure am going to miss them around Hogwarts, but their exit was second to none.
Fred and George have always been my favorites. I was very disappointed that they didn't have much of anything to do in the movies. But somehow, I don't think they're going to disappear in the last two books-can't you see Voldemort being overcome by uncontrollable vomiting induced by one of the treats in the Skiving Snackboxes?
 

deb25

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I certainly hope the Weasley twins don't become too scarce. And speaking of the Weasleys, it will be nice to see Percy eat a little crow in the next book.
 

sandra

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I was very upset when Percy forsook his Mom and Dad for a higher position at the Ministry of Magic
.... Also I think that New Defense against the Dark Arts teacher is 10 times worser than Snape
.
 

adymarie

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After about 7-8 hours of interrupted reading (I hate work) I have finished. I still prefer book 4 to book 5, but I did enjoy the character development in this book. I think a large part of Harry's anger/temper came from the fact he was "connected" to Voldemort emotionally. Between that and teen hormones, I am suprised he didn't go stark raving mad! I am so happy that Hagrid now has some family (his brother) and that The other Weasley characters had a larger part in this book. I was never a big fan of Sirius, so it really didn't upset me, except for the affect on Harry, when he died. I never felt that his character was utilized to his fullest. I was suprised at the liberties his house elf took.

With the end of the book, are we all so sure that the prophecy is ablout Harry. It could be Neville talked about in the prophecy. While Neville may not be marked "physically" he has been mark emotionally and mentally by Voldemort's actions against his parents. It could be Neville who will kill Voldemort! I love how Neville is taking charge in his life and learning how to defend himself.

Umbridge was a fascinating addition to this book. She just oozed evilness and I love the way McGonagoll treated her. I feel the "lines" to be an abuse of a teacher's powers, let alone the other things she did. The DA is starting to bring the students together!

Ok that is all I can think of right now (as I should be working and not typing).
 

adymarie

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I forgot - JKR has said that there will be some big suprises in the upcoming books and that they were hinted at in this book, which is why I am questioning who the prophecy is really about!
 
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okeefecl

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Originally posted by adymarie
I forgot - JKR has said that there will be some big suprises in the upcoming books and that they were hinted at in this book, which is why I am questioning who the prophecy is really about!
Well, I think the big surprise may involve Aunt Petunia. She knew more about magic than even knowing about the charm to protect Harry. JKR has said that a character will develop magic powers late in life, something that is very rare in the magic world. Perhaps Aunt Petunia?
 

deb25

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I am not so sure about the prophecy being about Neville. I think that it could have been about either of them, but Voldemort himself made it self-fulfilling when he chose Harry. I do think that Neville will continue to play a larger role, which is great to have him being something other than just a bumbling kid.
 

adymarie

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Originally posted by okeefecl
Well, I think the big surprise may involve Aunt Petunia. She knew more about magic than even knowing about the charm to protect Harry. JKR has said that a character will develop magic powers late in life, something that is very rare in the magic world. Perhaps Aunt Petunia?
That could be interesting!
 

adymarie

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Originally posted by Deb25
I am not so sure about the prophecy being about Neville. I think that it could have been about either of them, but Voldemort himself made it self-fulfilling when he chose Harry. I do think that Neville will continue to play a larger role, which is great to have him being something other than just a bumbling kid.
But did he? While Harry's scars are visible, Nevilles go deeper emotionally, as he has a constant reminder of what happened to his parents as they are still alive. We will see come book 7 if Neville isn't the one!
 

myste

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There may also be something to do with Albus Dumbledore's brother. He was mentioned once in this book.
"That's Dumbledore's brother Aberforth, only time I ever met him, strange bloke"
Moody said this when he's showing Harry the pictures of the old Order of the Phoenix


I kept thinking "With Dumbledore acting this wierd, I wonder if it's his brother impersonating him". I don't think so now, but I think we might meet him later on.
 

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I absolutely loved this book. It was the best yet, I think, though the mood was rather dark and depressing.

I noticed, especially during Dumbledore's explanation at the end, that a LOT of miniscule details were explain in the other books. Such as when Harry tells Dumbledore in book 3 about Trelawny's prediction and Dumbledore replied something like, "Well, that brings her number of real preditions up to 2. I should give her a pay raise." Also in book 2, after Harry explained what happened in the Chamber of Secrets, Dumbledore gives Harry an inexplicable look which I think relates to keeping the prophecy from Harry. I want to read through all of them again just to pick up on all of those.

With the end of the book, are we all so sure that the prophecy is ablout Harry. It could be Neville talked about in the prophecy. While Neville may not be marked "physically" he has been mark emotionally and mentally by Voldemort's actions against his parents. It could be Neville who will kill Voldemort! I love how Neville is taking charge in his life and learning how to defend himself.
Though this is a possibility, I think it is unlikely that Neville is the one mentioned in the Prophecy. It did say that The Dark Lord would mark whomever is was as an equal, and though he did mark Neville emotionally, I dont think that would qualify him as equal. Good point though.



There may also be something to do with Albus Dumbledore's brother. He was mentioned once in this book.
Hmmm.... I though he was brought up before by Dumbledore when Harry was complaining about having the Dursleys as relatives, and Dumbledore mentioned having a brother who did not have the greatest reputation. I dont remember the details, and I cant find any of my copies of the book I think this may be in. So it may not be accurate.
 

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Weee I finished this book last night, and I'm sooo thrilled with it! Rowling has an unbelievable imagination, and is a master at keeping you on your toes.



I don't think a relationship with Hermione and Harry will happen, and I don't think it happened in this book either. Cho was jealous of the friendship between Hermione and Harry, and I think Rowling did an absolutely wonderful job of portraying how young adults (15 years old) are still rather immature and unknowledgable in the ways of 'relationships'.


Honestly, I think that Ron and Hermione have a possiblitiy of developing something between them. At least I think that Ron is a bit jealous of Hermione and Viktor. Everytime Viktor and Hermione are mentioned around Ron he makes a smart comment. It makes me grin so.


I, also, love Fred and George. The fashion in which they leave Hogwarts was absolutely stunning. Sticking up for Dumbledore and caushing Umbridge such havoc. It was so much fun. I do hope that we hear more about them in the future, and see more pranks. Perhaps take a trip through their new joke shop.


I was a bit surprised about that it was the blood of his Aunt Petunia that was protecting him. I did keep wondering why he was forced to go back to #4 Privet Drive during the summers when they didn't want him, and he didn't want to be there. I'm very happy this was explained.


Sirius dying broke my heart. Although, he couldn't have died in a more honorable fashion. Fighting to save Harry and the rest of D.A. while also personally fighting off his own Death Eater cousin Bellatrix. I do hope his name gets cleared up, for Sirius is a great man.


I was actually happy to see Snape's memory of James Potter, Remus Lupin, and Sirius Black. James had always been portrayed as such a saint to Harry and I think it is vital to him in growing up and maturing to realize that everyone no matter how wonderful they are or were has faults and are NOT perfect.


The unsung hero Neville Longbottom has to be one of my favorite characters HANDS down. His bravery has grown so, and his determination to stand up for friends, family, and himself makes me swell with pride for him. I do believe from the bottom of my heart that Neville has a very important role in the near future. What a wonderful character he is.


As much as she was disliked, Umbridge was well written. Rowling has such a knack for making you dislike the characters SHE wants you to dislike.

Can't wait to see what happens to Grawp, and I'm curious about Firenze and Trelawny. Will they both teach divination ? We shall see!!


McGonagall is a wonderful character and I love how she stands up to Umbridge and sticks up for Harry! Declaring her help to him to become an Auror if it's the LAST thing she does. I can't wait to find out how many O.W.Ls they all get!



I have to say that one of my favorite parts was when the Order stood up for Harry to the Dursley's. Rowling sure does know how to make you close a book with a big ole grin on your face doesn't she? I can't WAIT for the new book!!!
 

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I agree that the ending was superb! LOVED the Order telling the Dursleys that they were watching. I really also loved that more of the original letter from Dumbledore was explained. Perhaps Petunia will play more of a pivotal role later.

The whole book, particularly the ending, struck me as so "Empire Strikes Back", for all you Star Wars people. The ending was triumphant (except for Sirius' death, of course), yet it definitely left that feeling of foreboding, and you know the worst is yet to come.

I just LOVE Rowling as a writer. She grabs you and pulls you into each and every book. A co-worker of mine bought book 5, but has read none of the others. Although, he has seen the movies, I am urging him to start at the beginning. I really think you have to experience Rowling's writing, not just know the main plot points from a film.
 

cassandra_starr

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I have to agree with you Deb. Rowling is a master. Hope you can convince the coworker to read em all, because he just doesn't know what he's missing!!



I think it'd be quite interesting to see if Petunia developes some magical skill in the later books. That will be the true test. Was she really just jealous of her sister because she had no magical powers.. OR does she *really* think that witches and wizards are 'freaks'.. and if so how will she feel once she finds out that she is one?


Sooo many possibilities. Get busy Rowling!
 

luv those paws

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Ok, let me say this first. I am not done with the book yet (about 3/4 done), and I have not read a single posting in this thread because I don't want to be spoiled.

With that said, isn't it amazing the way this woman can make you hate a character. I can't tell you how much I despise this Umbridge character. Evil.

I love this book!
 

deb25

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Well, he's an elementary school teacher, like me, so it won't be too hard, I am guessing. Plus I already know he is into fantasy-type genre. I am planning on using this argument.
 

deb25

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Originally posted by Luv Those Paws
Ok, let me say this first. I am not done with the book yet (about 3/4 done), and I have not read a single posting in this thread because I don't want to be spoiled.

With that said, isn't it amazing the way this woman can make you hate a character. I can't tell you how much I despise this Umbridge character. Evil.

I love this book!
Resist the urge! I peeked at one tiny post, and got news I didn't want. I am soooo with you on Umbridge. She is the absolute worst. Makes Snape look like a nice guy.
 

myste

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One thing I think should have been cleared up in this book... Molly & Arthur Weasley's reaction to Fred & George's dropping out of school and opening the joke shop. I mean, Ron was expecting to get yelled at for it, but nothing happened, and they all seemed happy enough together at the end of the book
 
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