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Harry Potter and the Half blood Prince by J. K. Rowling (2005, Hardcover)
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Author: J. K. Rowling
Publisher: Arthur a Levine
Publication Date: 2005-07-16
Series: Harry Potter Series
Language: English
Format: Hardcover
ISBN-10: 0439784549
ISBN-13: 9780439784542
Product ID: EPID44462740
Description: Sixth-year Hogwarts student Harry Potter gains valuable insights into the boy Voldemort once was, even as his own world is transformed by maturing friendships, schoolwork assistance from an unexpected source, and devastating losses.
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Harry Potter - you just can't get enough!
) 
91 of 108 people found this review helpful.
What can I say? J.K. Rowling has outdone herself with the 6th book in the Harry Potter series. The 6th year at Hogwart's offers new plot twists that keep the reader asking such questions as "Is Snape on our side or isn't he?" "Will Ron and Hermione get together or won't they?" "Will Harry ever learn that he should tell Dumbledore EVERYTHING that happens to him??"
Ms. Rowling's genius for writing is particularly illuminated in this latest installation as we are given pieces to the puzzle that we’ve been working on for YEARS. She tickles your mind with crazy possibilities (could Neville Longbottom really play an important role in the fight against Voldemort?). She provides just enough tidbits for us to imagine how the big picture might really look. While the cast of characters is as familiar to us as the golden snitch is fast, Rowling starts to show us a greater depth and possibility in them that we haven't seen thus far (with the exception, perhaps, of Peeves the Poltergeist who continues with his usual antics).
All in all, I would rank this book my favorite in the Harry Potter series. While it spends perhaps too much time on "who likes who" (although as a teen, what other topic is there?), it is a very entertaining page turner. In the end, you are left with the feeling that Harry is more a young man than a boy - that in the much anticipated 7th and final book he is going to step into the role that Dumbledore has been preparing him for during his time at Hogwart's. The anticipation is killing me!!
Ms. Rowling's genius for writing is particularly illuminated in this latest installation as we are given pieces to the puzzle that we’ve been working on for YEARS. She tickles your mind with crazy possibilities (could Neville Longbottom really play an important role in the fight against Voldemort?). She provides just enough tidbits for us to imagine how the big picture might really look. While the cast of characters is as familiar to us as the golden snitch is fast, Rowling starts to show us a greater depth and possibility in them that we haven't seen thus far (with the exception, perhaps, of Peeves the Poltergeist who continues with his usual antics).
All in all, I would rank this book my favorite in the Harry Potter series. While it spends perhaps too much time on "who likes who" (although as a teen, what other topic is there?), it is a very entertaining page turner. In the end, you are left with the feeling that Harry is more a young man than a boy - that in the much anticipated 7th and final book he is going to step into the role that Dumbledore has been preparing him for during his time at Hogwart's. The anticipation is killing me!!
Review ID: 10000000000000343
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Thank you for voting. If your vote meets our Much anticipated: Harry Potter lives up to the hypeReview created: 09/22/05
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52 of 67 people found this review helpful.
This much anticipated and long awaited book is the sixth in J.K. Rowling's series which have captured the imagination of children and adults alike across the globe. It's definitely worth the wait and is as engrossing as the five previous books in the series!
Now I'm not -- and my kids aren't ... yet perhaps ... -- like many of those other Harry Potter fans who dressed up and waited all night in front of some bookstore to buy this new installation. Rather, we bought it on eBay for 50% off and got it nearly as fast without the drama. Nonetheless, we've been drawn into the series in much the same way. I have a nine year old who has been listening to me read the books for the past few years and is just starting to read this latest edition on his own (although he has trouble with some sections, so it's probably still a bit ahead of his level). Rowling again delivers a lot of action, mystery, intrigue, and plenty of creativity to keep you turning quickly through the 675 or so pages.
"Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince" is packed with twists and turns. It's definitely a good bit darker than the previous editions as it follows our favorite trio Harry, Ron and Hermione into their sixth year at Hogwarts Academy of Wizarding and witchcraft. While I don't want to give away any of the secrets, here's a quick synopsis. At age 16, our heroes have clearly entered adolesence where petulance and crushes abound. They have just finished their O.W.L.s (a smart play on the English O-Level exams which are sort of like pre-SATs in the US) and in addition to various romances are consumed with what careers they want to pursue upon finishing school. All the while, the wizarding world is in turmoil over the war with Voldemort and his Death Eaters. The central villain, who is also known as the DarkLord or "He who must not be named," is unquestionably alive again and is terrorizing both the wizarding and muggel/non-wizarding worlds. And Harry has gone from misunderstood and maligned teenager to the yound adult who may have been prophesized to bring balance.
There are also many of other villains inluding Harry's nemesis at Hogwarts, Draco Malfoy and his crew of bullies in Slytherin. In addition, Belatrix Lestrange and professor Snape (now a Death Eater again). And, there are also some new characters including new Defense Against the Dark Arts and Potions teachers. In addition to many other twists and turns, one of the central characters dies in the end which is as surprising as it is sad. And at least so far in the series, this isn't one of those "supposed" deaths like Dumbeldore's "disasppearance" or Ron's Boggert-inspired imaginary death in previous editions.
The only drawback I can think of is that you might have to read the first five books before reading this sixth edition to fully get it. And what better way to get ready for the film version of Harry Potter four, "The Goblet of Fire" which will be in theaters in November than to read this final edition. It's a great read from start to finish and will be enjoyed by all.
Now I'm not -- and my kids aren't ... yet perhaps ... -- like many of those other Harry Potter fans who dressed up and waited all night in front of some bookstore to buy this new installation. Rather, we bought it on eBay for 50% off and got it nearly as fast without the drama. Nonetheless, we've been drawn into the series in much the same way. I have a nine year old who has been listening to me read the books for the past few years and is just starting to read this latest edition on his own (although he has trouble with some sections, so it's probably still a bit ahead of his level). Rowling again delivers a lot of action, mystery, intrigue, and plenty of creativity to keep you turning quickly through the 675 or so pages.
"Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince" is packed with twists and turns. It's definitely a good bit darker than the previous editions as it follows our favorite trio Harry, Ron and Hermione into their sixth year at Hogwarts Academy of Wizarding and witchcraft. While I don't want to give away any of the secrets, here's a quick synopsis. At age 16, our heroes have clearly entered adolesence where petulance and crushes abound. They have just finished their O.W.L.s (a smart play on the English O-Level exams which are sort of like pre-SATs in the US) and in addition to various romances are consumed with what careers they want to pursue upon finishing school. All the while, the wizarding world is in turmoil over the war with Voldemort and his Death Eaters. The central villain, who is also known as the DarkLord or "He who must not be named," is unquestionably alive again and is terrorizing both the wizarding and muggel/non-wizarding worlds. And Harry has gone from misunderstood and maligned teenager to the yound adult who may have been prophesized to bring balance.
There are also many of other villains inluding Harry's nemesis at Hogwarts, Draco Malfoy and his crew of bullies in Slytherin. In addition, Belatrix Lestrange and professor Snape (now a Death Eater again). And, there are also some new characters including new Defense Against the Dark Arts and Potions teachers. In addition to many other twists and turns, one of the central characters dies in the end which is as surprising as it is sad. And at least so far in the series, this isn't one of those "supposed" deaths like Dumbeldore's "disasppearance" or Ron's Boggert-inspired imaginary death in previous editions.
The only drawback I can think of is that you might have to read the first five books before reading this sixth edition to fully get it. And what better way to get ready for the film version of Harry Potter four, "The Goblet of Fire" which will be in theaters in November than to read this final edition. It's a great read from start to finish and will be enjoyed by all.
Review ID: 10000000000000735
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Fit for a Prince17 of 19 people found this review helpful.
The long awaited next book in the series lived up to my expectations.
The twists and turns and the surprises keep coming (especially in the 2nd half of the book)
I thought the first half of the book was a bit slow to develop but man the 2nd half - I could NOT put the book down.
The book keeps in line with others as Harry's stubborness to not disclose everything to Dumbledore causes problems as usual. This book is darker and a bit more advances as it digs into Voldmort's dark past. It has a lighter side of love interests for Harry and Ron (well sort of for Ron but you will see).
Harry's old rivals are back - Snape and Malfoy but this time they play much bigger roles and actually have a central plot around them (the ending is surprising - I kid you not)
Rowling spends more time on plot points and story lines than she does misc. stuff like Quidditch and has an ending that you would not expect. A bold move on Rowling's part.
As far as the best in the series - yes so far it is.
One thing that this book also does is set you up for great conversations on how the series will end. J.K. Rowling really has her readers guessing now with all the curve balls she threw at us in this book. Will the next one be fit for a King?
My only question is - what will they pick and choose to include in the movie for this whopper of a story and ending?
Disclaimer: I am an eBay employee and this review is my own opinion and is not written on behalf of eBay. This review does not reflect the views of my employer nor is it endorsed by them.
The twists and turns and the surprises keep coming (especially in the 2nd half of the book)
I thought the first half of the book was a bit slow to develop but man the 2nd half - I could NOT put the book down.
The book keeps in line with others as Harry's stubborness to not disclose everything to Dumbledore causes problems as usual. This book is darker and a bit more advances as it digs into Voldmort's dark past. It has a lighter side of love interests for Harry and Ron (well sort of for Ron but you will see).
Harry's old rivals are back - Snape and Malfoy but this time they play much bigger roles and actually have a central plot around them (the ending is surprising - I kid you not)
Rowling spends more time on plot points and story lines than she does misc. stuff like Quidditch and has an ending that you would not expect. A bold move on Rowling's part.
As far as the best in the series - yes so far it is.
One thing that this book also does is set you up for great conversations on how the series will end. J.K. Rowling really has her readers guessing now with all the curve balls she threw at us in this book. Will the next one be fit for a King?
My only question is - what will they pick and choose to include in the movie for this whopper of a story and ending?
Disclaimer: I am an eBay employee and this review is my own opinion and is not written on behalf of eBay. This review does not reflect the views of my employer nor is it endorsed by them.
Review ID: 10000000000003093
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Cannot Wait for #712 of 16 people found this review helpful.
Admittedly, Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince was going to end up on my bookshelf whether it was a real stinker or the best book in the series. J K Rowling has lived up to every bit of the hype with each continuation of the Harry Potter series though. TAKE NOTE: And if you haven't read the books, be aware many spoilers are in this review!!!!
An amazingly, gifted writer with number four (HP and the Goblet of Fire and my favorite), she took Harry, a young protagonist and pampered prince of the wizard world to full blown hero with anti-hero qualities such as a tendency towards broodiness and egocentric qualities that his closest friends have come to tolerate in him. In five, these egocentric qualities leave him desolate and without one of his dearest confidantes, but in six... well in six it leaves him a man.
In the sixth installment of Harry Potter, Harry cannot get away with the tantrums and broodiness he exhibited in the fifth book. His torture in five at the Hands of Ministry Politician has left him bitter but more wise and less prone to complain (which is good I might add). He did too much whining in the last two books for my liking. Dumbledore is desperate to transform Harry from typical wizard student into the megahero wizard he needs to be in record time. Throughout the sixth book, Dumbledore's urgency to teach Harry and regret at having left Harry to his own devices for so long come out in what he says and how he instructs Harry. After reading the book, I know why he seemed that way. But as you read it, you can feel Harry's reluctance and surprise to take on the role Dumbledore is trying to force him into without much preparation.
In the end, this book left me breathless and full of heartache. As an advid fan who has read and re-read all of the books many times, this book hurts the most to read. All the pain, struggles and death Harry has faced, he has always been surrounded by an awareness that there was a positive future for him. This book offers no such hope at its end. He is without any champion and all that he took as truth is uprooted. As a reader, I felt all of that with him.
If you are a fan, this book is the heart of the struggle that will continue in seven. You cannot go without reading this book. Despite its heartwrenching qualities, it has the details and experiences that explain nearly everything that has happened in the first four books. Voldemort's nature and familial mess is explained and his bitterness to his father is justified. However, the depths of evil he contains finally is revealed in this book.
Harry must be the hero for the world. Can he take up that mantle that Dumbledore has placed upon him? Or more importantly, that Voldemort has placed upon him. You will know, once you have read this book!
An amazingly, gifted writer with number four (HP and the Goblet of Fire and my favorite), she took Harry, a young protagonist and pampered prince of the wizard world to full blown hero with anti-hero qualities such as a tendency towards broodiness and egocentric qualities that his closest friends have come to tolerate in him. In five, these egocentric qualities leave him desolate and without one of his dearest confidantes, but in six... well in six it leaves him a man.
In the sixth installment of Harry Potter, Harry cannot get away with the tantrums and broodiness he exhibited in the fifth book. His torture in five at the Hands of Ministry Politician has left him bitter but more wise and less prone to complain (which is good I might add). He did too much whining in the last two books for my liking. Dumbledore is desperate to transform Harry from typical wizard student into the megahero wizard he needs to be in record time. Throughout the sixth book, Dumbledore's urgency to teach Harry and regret at having left Harry to his own devices for so long come out in what he says and how he instructs Harry. After reading the book, I know why he seemed that way. But as you read it, you can feel Harry's reluctance and surprise to take on the role Dumbledore is trying to force him into without much preparation.
In the end, this book left me breathless and full of heartache. As an advid fan who has read and re-read all of the books many times, this book hurts the most to read. All the pain, struggles and death Harry has faced, he has always been surrounded by an awareness that there was a positive future for him. This book offers no such hope at its end. He is without any champion and all that he took as truth is uprooted. As a reader, I felt all of that with him.
If you are a fan, this book is the heart of the struggle that will continue in seven. You cannot go without reading this book. Despite its heartwrenching qualities, it has the details and experiences that explain nearly everything that has happened in the first four books. Voldemort's nature and familial mess is explained and his bitterness to his father is justified. However, the depths of evil he contains finally is revealed in this book.
Harry must be the hero for the world. Can he take up that mantle that Dumbledore has placed upon him? Or more importantly, that Voldemort has placed upon him. You will know, once you have read this book!
Review ID: 10000000000021893
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Harry Potter - What is Rowling Doing???Review created: 12/16/05
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11 of 14 people found this review helpful.
I know I might be a minority here but I am a little worried. This book was fantastic and I am a big Harry Potter fan but the book left me a little high and dry. This is supposed to be the 2nd to last book in the series. Without giving anything away the book leaves you at such a point that it seems like a monumental task to be able to finish the series in just one more book.
My fear here is that Rowling is just looking to make more money on the series. There are so many other options she has here (One of my favorite ideas would be to write a prequel series about how Dumbledore came to be the way he is) that to drag Harry Potter on beyond what she originally envisioned would be to sell it out to Hollywood.
My other concern with the book is that it definitely drifted away from being a children’s book. To her credit she never really thought it would be such a phenomenal hit among such a young audience but there were definitely parts of the book that, as a parent, I felt definitely crossed a boundary within a kids book (i.e. using the term "whore" in a kids book was crossing that boundary).
Those were my two big concerns with the book itself, other than that I am a huge fan and have read the series a few times already. I an also a huge fan of quidditch :). For a more mature reader I really like how she writes and how she chronicles the life a growing teenager. I am definitely excited to see where this goes and I hope it really doesn’t drag on!
My fear here is that Rowling is just looking to make more money on the series. There are so many other options she has here (One of my favorite ideas would be to write a prequel series about how Dumbledore came to be the way he is) that to drag Harry Potter on beyond what she originally envisioned would be to sell it out to Hollywood.
My other concern with the book is that it definitely drifted away from being a children’s book. To her credit she never really thought it would be such a phenomenal hit among such a young audience but there were definitely parts of the book that, as a parent, I felt definitely crossed a boundary within a kids book (i.e. using the term "whore" in a kids book was crossing that boundary).
Those were my two big concerns with the book itself, other than that I am a huge fan and have read the series a few times already. I an also a huge fan of quidditch :). For a more mature reader I really like how she writes and how she chronicles the life a growing teenager. I am definitely excited to see where this goes and I hope it really doesn’t drag on!
Review ID: 10000000000106163
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Just As Good As The Rest ....Review created: 11/09/05
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) 11 of 14 people found this review helpful.
If you liked the others... You will like this one... Getting a little more not so childlike... Which I like!
Garry, KCebay.com
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Garry, KCebay.com
username: kansascitylistingservice.com
Review ID: 10000000000057476
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The darkest, most cerebral Harry Potter novel yetReview created: 10/25/05
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10 of 13 people found this review helpful.
Of all the Harry Potter books so far, The Half Blood Prince is by far the darkest and most cerebral. This book contains very few of the light, humorous moments that made the early HP books such a delight to read, but then this is a story of innocence destroyed. Instead, it pulls very few punches and requires the reader to think and analyze more. It has been interesting to observe that with each HP novel, J. K. Rowling clearly expects the reader to grow along with the protagonists as both the language and the subject matter become increasingly mature. For the first time, we see the dialog (perhaps unnecessarily) peppered with mild profanity. Whereas the first two books of the series are quite appropriate for readers between the ages of 9 and 11, the latter novels, especially this one, are not. This most recent novel in the series gives the reader much to ponder, both within the HP universe and about life and its eternal struggles. But it does leave one eager for the seventh and final novel in the series to find out where it all winds up.
Review ID: 10000000000039776
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Can't wait for the next book!
) 10 of 15 people found this review helpful.
As with all Harry Potter books, I couldn't put this book down. J.K. Rowling has this great style of making you want to turn the next page to see what happens next. Though, it may be a long read to some (672 pages), it doesn't disappoint at all.
After reading it, you'll definitely crave for more and would definitely want to know what will happen next. Harry begins to mature in this book as events unfold that place him in a position of great responsibility. But, he also isn't spared from the highs and lows of teenage life. Love interests arise and relationships develop. Harry sort of becomes a heartthrob here - though Ron, also becomes lovestruck as well. There's even a fist fight between them, over a girl...one of my favorite funny moments in the book, but I wont tell much about the details ;) You'll know more about the history of Voldemort in this book and there's a new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher who's quite an interesting character as well.
I highly recommend the book to everyone!
After reading it, you'll definitely crave for more and would definitely want to know what will happen next. Harry begins to mature in this book as events unfold that place him in a position of great responsibility. But, he also isn't spared from the highs and lows of teenage life. Love interests arise and relationships develop. Harry sort of becomes a heartthrob here - though Ron, also becomes lovestruck as well. There's even a fist fight between them, over a girl...one of my favorite funny moments in the book, but I wont tell much about the details ;) You'll know more about the history of Voldemort in this book and there's a new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher who's quite an interesting character as well.
I highly recommend the book to everyone!
Review ID: 10000000000012968
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Harry's back with a bang!
) 9 of 9 people found this review helpful.
This book from cover to cover was so great i took my vacation from work to devote the proper time to it. I got started on Harry Potter when book four was released. I bought up the first set of books and i've never looked back. The stories are always right on the money, fantastic and at sometimes incredible. This book was the best by far, which i didn't think possible after the last book, but time and time again she has out done herself. The story was awesome bringing all the other books together as far as relationships go along with the well anticipated duel of good VS evil. Buying this is a no-brainer, A must have for all harry potter fans and a story that will leave you begging for more.
And now for my dislikes: not long enough (with something so good you never want it to end), this is book six ( being book six of seven it means its almost over)and last the movie ( they are so pressed for time like the others they will leave some really important and great stuff out).
And now for my dislikes: not long enough (with something so good you never want it to end), this is book six ( being book six of seven it means its almost over)and last the movie ( they are so pressed for time like the others they will leave some really important and great stuff out).
Review ID: 10000000000754665
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J.K. Rowling has created another materpiece!9 of 11 people found this review helpful.
After a long wait, with a new movie thrown in to tease us, Rowling's sixth Potter book was released in July. Her ability to hold spell-bound the young and old alike, has left me awestruck by her talents, especially while writing this book her own life took the twists and turns of a new marriage and a new baby.
As she has developed each book it has been interesting to see her give Harry, Ron and Hermonie the attitude which corresponds to the real-world attitude of the age group our favorite trio is entering.
As usual, Harry doesn't tell Dumbldore everything he knows, but then what teenager does tell the adults around him/her everthing?
The ending left me broken-hearted,and eagerly awaiting book seven. It also left me with the question, how is Rowling going to tie up all of the loose ends from all of the books in book seven? Perhaps she has listened to all the requests from young and old alike and will be continuing her series into the adult world after our Trio leaves Hogwarts.
As I have in each of the series, I vacillate between believing that Snape is protecting Harry, and that he is part of Voldemort's entourage. Once again, I was left wondering.
Dumbledore had told Harry in one of the earlier books that as long as there was evil, there would be someone to fight it. With the new twists and turns of this book, along with the "betrayal" of Ron's brother, Percy in an earlier book, we can only hope that Ms. Rowling is setting up more books.
It has been wonderful to see people reading because of the Harry Potter Series. Reading is a lost art, as well as an important art. I only hope that Ms. Rowling will continue past book seven -- perhaps going back in time to show how Hagrid, Dumbledore, Harry's parents, Snape and all of the other bit characters became whom they are today.
This book was a definite page turner, and it left me with more questions than it answered. I look forward to J.K. Rowlings next book, and hope that it will nlot be her last!
As she has developed each book it has been interesting to see her give Harry, Ron and Hermonie the attitude which corresponds to the real-world attitude of the age group our favorite trio is entering.
As usual, Harry doesn't tell Dumbldore everything he knows, but then what teenager does tell the adults around him/her everthing?
The ending left me broken-hearted,and eagerly awaiting book seven. It also left me with the question, how is Rowling going to tie up all of the loose ends from all of the books in book seven? Perhaps she has listened to all the requests from young and old alike and will be continuing her series into the adult world after our Trio leaves Hogwarts.
As I have in each of the series, I vacillate between believing that Snape is protecting Harry, and that he is part of Voldemort's entourage. Once again, I was left wondering.
Dumbledore had told Harry in one of the earlier books that as long as there was evil, there would be someone to fight it. With the new twists and turns of this book, along with the "betrayal" of Ron's brother, Percy in an earlier book, we can only hope that Ms. Rowling is setting up more books.
It has been wonderful to see people reading because of the Harry Potter Series. Reading is a lost art, as well as an important art. I only hope that Ms. Rowling will continue past book seven -- perhaps going back in time to show how Hagrid, Dumbledore, Harry's parents, Snape and all of the other bit characters became whom they are today.
This book was a definite page turner, and it left me with more questions than it answered. I look forward to J.K. Rowlings next book, and hope that it will nlot be her last!
Review ID: 10000000000037150
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Great Book Couldnt asked any betterReview created: 10/13/05
by:
9 of 11 people found this review helpful.
The 6th year at Hogwart's offers new plot twists that keep the reader asking such questions as Is Snape on the dark side or isn't he?Will Ron and Hermione get together or won't they?
Ms. Rowling's genius for writing is particularly illuminated in this latest installation as we are given pieces to the puzzle that we’ve been working on for YEARS. She tickles your mind with crazy possibilities (could Neville Longbottom really play an important role in the fight against Voldemort?). She provides just enough tidbits for us to imagine how the big picture might really look.
All in all, I would rank this book my favorite in the Harry Potter series. While it spends perhaps too much time on possible dating relationships, although as a teen, what other topic is there?, it is a very entertaining page turner. In the end, you are left with the feeling that Harry is more a young man than a boy - that in the much anticipated 7th and final book he is going to step into the role that Dumbledore has been preparing him for during his time at Hogwart's.
Ms. Rowling's genius for writing is particularly illuminated in this latest installation as we are given pieces to the puzzle that we’ve been working on for YEARS. She tickles your mind with crazy possibilities (could Neville Longbottom really play an important role in the fight against Voldemort?). She provides just enough tidbits for us to imagine how the big picture might really look.
All in all, I would rank this book my favorite in the Harry Potter series. While it spends perhaps too much time on possible dating relationships, although as a teen, what other topic is there?, it is a very entertaining page turner. In the end, you are left with the feeling that Harry is more a young man than a boy - that in the much anticipated 7th and final book he is going to step into the role that Dumbledore has been preparing him for during his time at Hogwart's.
Review ID: 10000000000025033
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definite must read for all agesReview created: 09/23/05
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9 of 14 people found this review helpful.
The Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling is an incredible series; it is a definite must read for all ages. Rowling's writing captures the imagination of all ages; children and adults alike become captivated in the story of Harry Potter from the moment they start reading the first book.
J. K. Rowling has often been described as a modern Roald Dahl with her stories of young children who overcome great evil and peril.
My review for this book:
If you've read the previous five books, you will definitely want to read this next book in the series. If you haven't, you'll probably want to start with Book 1 before reading Book 6.
J. K. Rowling has often been described as a modern Roald Dahl with her stories of young children who overcome great evil and peril.
My review for this book:
If you've read the previous five books, you will definitely want to read this next book in the series. If you haven't, you'll probably want to start with Book 1 before reading Book 6.
Review ID: 10000000000001370
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Harry Potter: One Step CloserReview created: 12/17/05
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8 of 9 people found this review helpful.
As an avid Harry Potter fan (and firm believer that the series is not just for children), I of course rushed out and bought Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince as soon as it hit the shelves.
J.K Rowling has an amazing way of bringing the reader into the story and making you feel like you are not just an observer, but a part of the action. You feel Harry's emotions, you want to help Ron, and you try and solve the mystery with Hermione. J.K Rowling is very much a talented and spellbinding author.
I have loved the entire series, but was slightyly dissapointed with this book. I found the beginning a bit drawn out and slow. The action really didn't start until near the end of the book. The ending leaves you hanging, which all good books do, and wondering what will be the conclusion in the final book. I wonder how Harry and his friend will solve the mystery of whether Snape is a good guy or a bad guy!
I always recommend Harry Potter to all readers, and do so again with this book. If you are expecting the action packed pages of the initial books in the series, you will be slightly let down, but it is still well worth your time to read it!
J.K Rowling has an amazing way of bringing the reader into the story and making you feel like you are not just an observer, but a part of the action. You feel Harry's emotions, you want to help Ron, and you try and solve the mystery with Hermione. J.K Rowling is very much a talented and spellbinding author.
I have loved the entire series, but was slightyly dissapointed with this book. I found the beginning a bit drawn out and slow. The action really didn't start until near the end of the book. The ending leaves you hanging, which all good books do, and wondering what will be the conclusion in the final book. I wonder how Harry and his friend will solve the mystery of whether Snape is a good guy or a bad guy!
I always recommend Harry Potter to all readers, and do so again with this book. If you are expecting the action packed pages of the initial books in the series, you will be slightly let down, but it is still well worth your time to read it!
Review ID: 10000000000107289
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This book leaves you begging for more!!8 of 10 people found this review helpful.
The 6th book in the Harry Potter series is filled with suspense, action, mystery, and even romance. Harry Potter definitely turns from a boy to a self-aware man. His powers, intelligence, and maturity all increase throughout the book. There are numerous twists and turns throughout. The ending has you begging for more! The opportunities are endless for the 7th book, and it may indeed prove to be the best one yet! I can't wait!
For all Harry Potter die hards, this is a must read. Shame on you if you haven't read it already! =)
For all Harry Potter die hards, this is a must read. Shame on you if you haven't read it already! =)
Review ID: 10000000000023958
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Latest and greatest book in the seriesReview created: 10/07/05
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8 of 9 people found this review helpful.
I agree with all of the other reviews out there. This is a great book and just further proves that J K Rowling is one of the most imaginative and accomplished authors out there.
No other series comes close to this, in quality, humor, and overall readability. This series is no longer just for kids, as parents probably would enjoy it more than their kids.
Nothing else needs to be said. Simply the best!!!
I can't wait for the movie, counting down the days!!!
No other series comes close to this, in quality, humor, and overall readability. This series is no longer just for kids, as parents probably would enjoy it more than their kids.
Nothing else needs to be said. Simply the best!!!
I can't wait for the movie, counting down the days!!!
Review ID: 10000000000017373
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Harry Potter and the Half-Blood PrinceReview created: 09/27/05
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) 8 of 10 people found this review helpful.
What a great story. I love reading to my kids and these are always the best as they help boost the imagination. In the book you can still picture Potter and any age or or the surroundings any style you want, as opposed to the movie where you're limited in your imagination. Definitely a good read.
Review ID: 10000000000004246
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An Adult with a Harry AddictionReview created: 11/19/05
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7 of 7 people found this review helpful.
Worst part of book - Once you have read it, it is over.
Best part of book - reading it!
I loved this book (and all the others). I am an avid reader of "real liturature" and I get all sweaty when a new Harry Potter book is coming out. I used to be embarrased to tell people that I was reading the Harry Potter books but now I know that they are "real literature" too. I am a 39 year old professional - married with a child too young to read these books. I can't wait til she is old enough to read them on her own (then I will have an excuse to read them again) I read this heafty book in one day and then wished that I had read it a little slower so that it would last a little longer. The main characters are growing up and the plot is getting thicker. It is a great read and I am very worried that the 7th book will be that last. (by the way, "A Million Little Pieces" was depressing. If his addiction could have been caused by an ear infection as an infant, parents are never off the hook!)
Best part of book - reading it!
I loved this book (and all the others). I am an avid reader of "real liturature" and I get all sweaty when a new Harry Potter book is coming out. I used to be embarrased to tell people that I was reading the Harry Potter books but now I know that they are "real literature" too. I am a 39 year old professional - married with a child too young to read these books. I can't wait til she is old enough to read them on her own (then I will have an excuse to read them again) I read this heafty book in one day and then wished that I had read it a little slower so that it would last a little longer. The main characters are growing up and the plot is getting thicker. It is a great read and I am very worried that the 7th book will be that last. (by the way, "A Million Little Pieces" was depressing. If his addiction could have been caused by an ear infection as an infant, parents are never off the hook!)
Review ID: 10000000000068120
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We LOVED it!Review created: 10/18/05
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7 of 10 people found this review helpful.
We had gotten the book on CD and listened to it at night. We couldn't stop! There were times we were up SO late!! LOL We both cried at the end. I certainly hope the next one is a bit more uplifting!
Review ID: 10000000000031774
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Absolutly the best!Review created: 10/01/05
by:
7 of 9 people found this review helpful.
You can never get enough of Harry Potter and Hogwarts school. This is just one of the many fine stories that keeps one reading. I have even noticed some of my students who usually would not want to pick up a book, picking this one up and reading it from the beginning to end. I recommend this book to everyone!
Review ID: 10000000000006719
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Great Book of the Season.Review created: 12/02/05
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6 of 7 people found this review helpful.
After grueling midnight experience at the local bookstore I have added the sixth Harry Potter book to my collection! JK Rowling once again proved her creativity by adding another truly engrossing book to the series.
"Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" is as suspenseful, gripping and imaginative as the previous volumes. I honestly think it appeals to all ages. I am 74. (If not for the lack of waist-length silver hair and beard, one might confuse me with Albus Dumbledore himself...) Although my interest in Harry Potter was spurred a few years ago by my teenaged grandchildren, we are now all lining up together in the bookstores to get each new addition to the series.
Harry is sixteen now and it is only one year left before he comes of age and the protection of Dursleys home will cease. This hints at new kind of troubles for Harry in the next book of the series... In the meantime he is taken from Dursley's to engage in the usual medley of dangerous and some very emotional events. At the threshold of his adulthood Harry has gone through a considerable character development and is making more mature and independent decisions. It is difficult to say more about the book without revealing the story line and spoiling the fun of reading for any "Muggle" that has not yet read it... Suffice to say that the battles with the evil continue and reach their culmination by the end of the book.
On the negative side, I found Half-Blood Prince at times too long and lacking the glint of some of the earlier books of the series. This makes me wonder how many more volumes is the author able to create without getting into mediocrity...
As my younger grandchildren grow I continue looking for new, interesting children books. A recent new discovery for me was "Why Some Cats are Rascals" by yet another master of fantasy, Boszenna Nowiki. It is a completely different kind of fiction, showing the world from cat's perspective. Nowiki's writing style is as engrossing as the one of JK Rowling. The story evokes child's imagination, and it's loaded with positive energy that bears some traces of influence by writings of David R. Hawkins, the author of "Power vs. Force."
"Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" is as suspenseful, gripping and imaginative as the previous volumes. I honestly think it appeals to all ages. I am 74. (If not for the lack of waist-length silver hair and beard, one might confuse me with Albus Dumbledore himself...) Although my interest in Harry Potter was spurred a few years ago by my teenaged grandchildren, we are now all lining up together in the bookstores to get each new addition to the series.
Harry is sixteen now and it is only one year left before he comes of age and the protection of Dursleys home will cease. This hints at new kind of troubles for Harry in the next book of the series... In the meantime he is taken from Dursley's to engage in the usual medley of dangerous and some very emotional events. At the threshold of his adulthood Harry has gone through a considerable character development and is making more mature and independent decisions. It is difficult to say more about the book without revealing the story line and spoiling the fun of reading for any "Muggle" that has not yet read it... Suffice to say that the battles with the evil continue and reach their culmination by the end of the book.
On the negative side, I found Half-Blood Prince at times too long and lacking the glint of some of the earlier books of the series. This makes me wonder how many more volumes is the author able to create without getting into mediocrity...
As my younger grandchildren grow I continue looking for new, interesting children books. A recent new discovery for me was "Why Some Cats are Rascals" by yet another master of fantasy, Boszenna Nowiki. It is a completely different kind of fiction, showing the world from cat's perspective. Nowiki's writing style is as engrossing as the one of JK Rowling. The story evokes child's imagination, and it's loaded with positive energy that bears some traces of influence by writings of David R. Hawkins, the author of "Power vs. Force."
Review ID: 10000000000084757
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this ol gal liked it6 of 6 people found this review helpful.
well i thinkit was a good read...i bouth it the day it came out and had it done in 2 days....:) my kids all enjoy reading and this is a good one for them...
Review ID: 10000000000042775
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Best Harry Potter book thus farReview created: 10/21/05
by:
6 of 8 people found this review helpful.
I really liked this one and am still questioning the ending (no spoilers from me). I thought book five was a little off with regard to characterization. I don't think Harry would have become such an overtly angry young man (adolescent or not). I believe Harry would have internalized his anger/sorrow/frustration/grief and become depressed. He would NOT have become the sullen character portrayed in book five.
The good news is Angry Harry is gone in book six. Rowling does a fantastic job of continuing the narrative. I am really looking forward to book seven. I think I'll reread all of them before it comes out.
The good news is Angry Harry is gone in book six. Rowling does a fantastic job of continuing the narrative. I am really looking forward to book seven. I think I'll reread all of them before it comes out.
Review ID: 10000000000035616
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Half-Blood PrinceReview created: 10/20/05
by:
6 of 7 people found this review helpful.
Revealing the half-blood prince and the conncetion to his mother was a marvelous stroke. I would have never imagined that this title would take me a full circle back to Harry's father and Snape. Revealing the link that is so fragile. Human cruelity revealed through blood lineage is not instinctive but taught at early ages.
As James grew up, his bias faced head on into the love of his life( Miss Evans). When revealed against the fears that developed with Snape and Voldemort ( alias Tom Riddle). We see that love is missing and the desire, to be what you are not, is a very strong influence. Voldemort and Snape missed what being alive is about. The experience of living in a wide arena of real life situations, culture, heritage, and mostly developing into a define character through open minded learning ( a little help from the heart does help).
The learning of an action by another to split his soul( multible times) and the devastating effect it had on Voldemort. The search for answer and the quietly hanging on to a thought of decency as found in Dumbledore's plead to Snape. I am left with wondering if Dumbledore would have allowed Harry to stand at his side if there would have been a different outcome. But then we would not have the opportunity to see where conviction take the lives of these three young people. Harry, Ron, and Hermoine lives were impacted for years to come.
Even Harry's stance about the conviction of an innocent person shadows our own existence. Where did all this come from? I can not imagine. Where it will take us? I can only anticipate the next book being completed and released. In the meantime i am enjoying the Movies as they are released and listen to Jim Dale put into words what my imagination has already created.
Don't overlook the audiobooks and movies from this seriies. I have enjoyed each as they have been released. For someone that is rarely caught up in a fanfare situation. i am riding this one to the end. Hang Ten!
As James grew up, his bias faced head on into the love of his life( Miss Evans). When revealed against the fears that developed with Snape and Voldemort ( alias Tom Riddle). We see that love is missing and the desire, to be what you are not, is a very strong influence. Voldemort and Snape missed what being alive is about. The experience of living in a wide arena of real life situations, culture, heritage, and mostly developing into a define character through open minded learning ( a little help from the heart does help).
The learning of an action by another to split his soul( multible times) and the devastating effect it had on Voldemort. The search for answer and the quietly hanging on to a thought of decency as found in Dumbledore's plead to Snape. I am left with wondering if Dumbledore would have allowed Harry to stand at his side if there would have been a different outcome. But then we would not have the opportunity to see where conviction take the lives of these three young people. Harry, Ron, and Hermoine lives were impacted for years to come.
Even Harry's stance about the conviction of an innocent person shadows our own existence. Where did all this come from? I can not imagine. Where it will take us? I can only anticipate the next book being completed and released. In the meantime i am enjoying the Movies as they are released and listen to Jim Dale put into words what my imagination has already created.
Don't overlook the audiobooks and movies from this seriies. I have enjoyed each as they have been released. For someone that is rarely caught up in a fanfare situation. i am riding this one to the end. Hang Ten!
Review ID: 10000000000033968
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Great Book...Great FollowingReview created: 10/08/05
by:
6 of 10 people found this review helpful.
You don't have to be a Harry Potter enthusiast to enjoy this book. Although, if you haven't started from book number one I don't recommend it. Start fresh so that you can easily follow the stories and the characters.
Review ID: 10000000000019600
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The best of the series so far6 of 9 people found this review helpful.
J.K. Rowling's best of the series so far. As the reader has grown and matured with Harry, the adventures at Hogwarts have become darker and more intense.
What amazes me most about this series is that I'm still unable to predict the ending until just before it's revealed. This skill is terribly difficult to perform over a the course of so many novels in a series. Very impressive work!
What amazes me most about this series is that I'm still unable to predict the ending until just before it's revealed. This skill is terribly difficult to perform over a the course of so many novels in a series. Very impressive work!
Review ID: 10000000000005504
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