Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

JK Rowling has yet again given the reader the finest gift; by creating an extraordinary world that would compel the reader to believe the plot. The book talks to the reader about two main aspects, Harry's adolescence and the various political plots. All of fifteen, Harry is growing into an emotionally intense individual. He lacks confidence and is awkward with the opposite sex. He shows feelings of irrational anger which is innate to every teenager. He tries to create a niche for himself in the teenage world and this is so typical of adolescents. The all powerful protagonist is actually portrayed as someone who would give in to peer-pressure.

Over the summer, gossip has transformed Harry's tragic and heroic encounter with Voldemort at the Triwizard Tournament into a reason to scorn and discount the teen. In a dilemma as to accept the fact that Voldemort is back, the headmaster of the school; Professor Dumbledore, has come under scrutiny by the Ministry of Magic. Rowling introduces a new, character; Dolores Umbridge who replaces the defense against dark arts teacher and eventually becomes the high inquisitor of Hogwarts. These developments are making life more difficult for Harry Potter and this, in a way exemplifies the tribulation one has to face on growing up.

The political plots are exemplified by competition between Cornelius Fudge vs. Albus Dumbledore. I especially loved the way J.K. Rowling has depicted the characters as normal people with the extraordinary power of magic. This makes the reader feel one with the characters and love them all the more. The nuances of Harry's adolescent stage is well depicted with instances of a certain crush, outbursts of rage and the mushrooming sense of rebellion which is quite powerful. The interesting twist and turns of situations that unfold, in the most natural way, makes this book a very good read.

Review posted for Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix   |   Login to rate this review.