The ending was surprising, but then again not. I hated that so many died and who died (won't give it away), but I also know that makes it more realistic. Life isn't all happy endings. I was surprised at Snape's true feelings, but was also glad of it. I would like to see some more of the 19 year lapse, but can use my imagination if there is no further explanation. I think J. K. Rowling has more than met the expectations of her readers with this last book. Though in my 50s, I couldn't wait to get my hands on the book and read it. My enthusiasm has even created interest in friends and family to read the books. I will sorely miss Harry Potter and his adventures. Thank you for a wonderful series, Ms. Rowling.
— Faye, Bowling Green, Ky.

"Some books are to be tasted, others swallowed, and few to be chewed on and digested" This book was certainly meant to be savored all the way! J.K. Rowling certainly did not disappoint. Like all die-hard potter fans, I had been dying to get my hands on the last book of the series. I picked up the book early morning on Saturday and devoted the next 10 hours devouring the book. There were a few things that I felt could have been handled better. Moody's death and recovering his body could have been explained. The story seemed to drag a bit when they were hiding in the forests etc . Apart from helping Ron reunite with Harry and Hermione, I did not quite understand the significance of the "Deluminator". Snape was finally exonerated and it proved that Dumbledore had always been right about him. It was sad to see Lupin and Tonks die leaving their son behind. The final twist was very well written where Harry comes back having conquered death, for his final battle. Neville's transformation from a clumsy boy into a confident, fearless Gryffindor was very admirable. It was touching to see that Albus Severus was the only child of Harry's to have Lily's eyes. Finally like Dumbledore always said, it was love that triumphed- the love that Lily had for Harry and the love that Snape had for Lily.
— AJS, Boston

I think it is the best of the series...hands down. There is more action and so much going on I had trouble putting it down even to take a brief break. It will be the best of the movies, too.
— Gil Lybrooke, Decatur, Texas

The book is an incredible read. It places Harry Potter in literatures collection of true heroes, following in the footsteps of countless heroes before him. The hype, however, damaged a few moments of the book. The anticipation of a major, cathartic death in the last few chapters led to a build up of emotion - but not explosion. However, going back and re-reading the last 50 pages, I realized it was never about an earth shattering death. Instead, it was about Harry taking charge of his destiny. And that, in the end, is what every book was about.
— Matthew, Sacramento

I, like most readers, read this book in two sittings. Not because I was afraid of catching a spoiler, but because I've waiting a long time to finally know the ending. I found the "nineteen years later" part to be a little to neat and easy, although the rest of the book kept me up for hours each night. I will definitely read this book, as I did the others, over and over again. What enjoyable reading!!
— Gina, Morton, Ill.

I agree with JJ that the ending was sugary and dissatisfying, but "20 years later and everything is perfect"?! How about, "20 years later and all the characters are so stuck in the past, they must name all their children after dead characters and allow old house rivalries to remain even after they presumably grew up partly by discovering the good in those they despised"? I wonder what J.K. means by showing us a world where, if nothing is worse than when Voldemort was alive, absolutely nothing is better than before he reappeared on the scene? Or did she really mean for the the last bit to be just cutesy schmaltz after all the drama?
— Faye

Rowling is clear to point out in the book that Harry needs to know every little detail of the events surrounding himself and his past. She might also want to note that her readers have the same desire, and while the story and writing were brilliant - by far my favorite of the series - I'd have liked a few more details in the epilogue, particularly regarding Harry's profession. It's sad to think we'll never see Harry again, because I would think there could be any number of books written on the years following Voldemort's demise. Still, Rowling gets a standing ovation from me.
— Tom, Millerburg, Penn.

I think the Harry Potter series will join others as reflecting the great myths of our time. What I particularly liked is that evil was overcome by those who were honest, had personal integrity and morals. The omission of religion, adherence to a certain dogma and being "saved" yet being able to stand against the most  dark figure of evil was fantastic. Who would know such truths could be found in a children's book? (Wink!)  My daughter was 11 when the first book came out. How wonderful for a generation of those children soon to turn 21 for their process of growing up emotionally to be captured by the series. I will always be a fan. I love the way the ending leaves room for more. What other phenomena of our time has united so many people in such a positive way. My generation had Kennedy and King. This one has Harry...
— Connie, Manchester, Md.

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