Author: J.K. Rowling
Genre: Fantasy; Middle Grade
Rating: 9.5/10
Disclaimer: I am aware of the situation with J.K. Rowling, but I believe in separating the art from the artist. Please respect that this is a review solely on the book.
So it’s Harry’s third year at Hogwarts and before he even steps foot into school, he discovers a dangerous escaped convict might be after him. Of course.
To be honest, I’m not very sure why Harry looks forward to returning to Hogwarts each year, because every time he’s there, all he does is get injured or in trouble or into mortal peril. Having said that, I absolutely loved this book.
With each book I read, I find myself getting more attached to our cast of characters and the world they reside in, which has become more intricate and fascinating with every book. Opening another one of these books felt very nostalgic; the writing style, the characters, and the setting are ever familiar and beloved, yet each story is new and exciting.
One of the reasons I loved this book was because it broke out of that “middle grade adventure” structure which the first two books followed. The series is losing its predictability and adapting more cleverness into its plot, which leaves you shocked at the twists and turns, yet also applauding in admiration.
I enjoyed the book from start to finish, and the suspense and mystery intrigued me. But, my favourite part has to be the climax and resolution which I found both satisfying and thrilling.
In this book, we are offered more backstory, which I felt was very skilfully woven into the present and began giving depth to the story. This book has begun branching out the many different storylines and plot points in this series and you can tell it’s all leading to a bigger picture, which leaves you reaching for the next book.
Furthermore, this book has also begun to explore more difficult concepts such as friendship, anger and grief.
Personally, I immediately fell in love with the new characters we were introduced to in this book and the piece of history that came with them. It felt very much like it could be its own independent story as opposed to just something to further the main plot. It was heartbreaking to learn about their past but I can’t wait to read more scenes with these characters.
The author is ever expanding on the magical system, whether that be introducing magical items or subjects. I found every single one of them very creative yet purposeful and grounded in the reality (Wizarding world) she has created for us.
The first three books, which are considered middle grade, are some of the best middle grade I have read, and definitely deserve the ratings they have received.
“I solemnly swear that I am up to no good.”
All in all, this book has shown that the series is heading for a more complex and mature route, yet still maintaining the light and magical undertone. Knowing the books only get better, I can see this quickly becoming one of my favourite series.
Reviewed by: N.G.Rainwater (1st Reading)
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