Jul 17, 2005 09:54 AM
1320 Views
(Updated Jul 17, 2005 10:06 AM)
Hi,
I finally finished the 6th book of Harry Potter. It was a relief after having waited with baited breath for 2 long years! Though the beginning is rather slow(the main characters are introduced only after 38 pages), the book picks up pace towards the end. Its rather difficult to provide a review without revealing parts of the plot; however I shall attempt to do so.
There is no doubt that the 6th book is all about emotions and has a lot of the past in it. J.K Rowling has used the pensieve as a handy tool for flashbacks to take the story forward. Both Harry's and Voldemort's past lives are explained to satisfaction. An appropriate background has been created for the final climax.
Those who have been longing for a romantic angle for Harry, Ron and Hermione will not be disappointed; there is plenty of love in this book. It is not the only thing that supports the fact that all the characters have now matured, especially Harry. What disappointed me most was the predictability of the book. The romance between the characters could have been handled with more finesse; there is no attempt to justify Harry's feelings especially. The death of the main character towards the end, though moving, is predictable. There is not a lot of surprise element in the book. It is merely providing the prequel to the grand finale.
Some of the characters could have been explained in more detail; the Half-Blood Prince himself, for example. Snape plays a bigger role. Albus Dumbledore is the pillar of strength for everyone as usual. Ron and Hermione are touching with their adolescent feelings and undying loyalty as friends to Harry. Harry himself is no more a school boy, but a young man with a mission to accomplish. Introduction of yet another new teacher at Hogwarts is necessary to provide the missing link in the plot.
All in all, not one of my favorites(Goblet of Fire remains my favorite).
P.S. -For the uninitiated, it is advised that they read the first 5 books before attempting to read this one, as there is no explanation or introduction to characters at the beginning of the book.
