Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince Book Review

This book continues the presentation of progressive intensity as the characters are obviously older and Voldemort’s re-establishment to power draws closer and closer. I found this book captivating throughout the entire journey because it introduced the audience to greater levels of mystery, leaving me on the edge of my seat to find out the truth and outcomes for the characters within the story. I enjoyed seeing the partnership between Dumbledore and Harry throughout this book. The fact that Dumbledore asked Harry to help him with such an important task and took him under his wing to work hands-on with him created a sense of trust and respect that he holds in Harry. As children grow older, they are given opportunities to prove their abilities and why they should be trusted - Dumbledore took the initiative to foster this in Harry in a way that allowed Harry to feel like he and his powers were valuable in the eyes of others. Even though this is something that has been evident during the entire book series, I believe this particular instance between him and Dumbledore is more meaningful because Harry genuinely admires and honors Dumbledore. 

As soon as it was revealed that Harry and Dumbledore were looking for a new Potions teacher instead of a new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, I knew a lot was going to unfold as the book continued. Given the fact that Snape has been in constant reference to wanting to be the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, I assumed he would have his time in the spotlight eventually, so it didn’t come as much surprise to me. It plays a role in foreshadowing his actions at the end of the book, and I think it makes sense that Snape’s largest role in the plot comes at the same time that Malfoy’s character is focused so heavily on. Since Malfoy has been deemed Harry’s enemy, it was only a matter of time before the story shifted deeper focus on his personal development, as well. 

It might be an unpopular opinion, but I enjoy the fact that this book dissected the feelings that the characters have developed for each other. I have loved Ron and Hermione’s relationship from the beginning! The fact that they have always maintained a fluency of banter made it obvious to me that they would eventually like each other as more than friends - that’s just how “young love” works. I even appreciate the fact that Harry’s feelings are geared towards Ginny simply because she looked at him in such awe during the second book - I think it’s kind of sweet that she’s getting the attention from him that she wanted years ago. Of course, boys are late to the game, so this had to happen when she wasn’t necessarily on the market. I know this storyline is centered around magic and the obstacles that arise within Hogwarts, but we are talking about children growing into their teenage years. They are around the same group of people year after year so it only makes sense that relationships occur in these stories. It’s basically the only realistic aspect of any of the books that I’ve read so far. 

Ultimately, this book is exciting and takes readers on a little roller coaster ride with its twists and turns. After the journey of this plot, the end of the book hit me unexpectedly. It left me in shock if I’m being completely honest. I’m anxious to start reading the next book because I don’t know what to expect at this point. I think this book opened the door for an even more chaotic continuation of the series that could obtain a variety of approaches.