My journey into the fantastical, brilliant mind of J.K. Rowling began in 1998, when I was six. I saw a book on a table in our living room, and was drawn to it because of its colorful cover. It didn’t look like the kind of book my parents would read, so I, already an avid reader, opened it. And suddenly, the hand of Rowling came out, grabbed me, and pulled me, careening, into a new world.

My passion for the books has never waned. But I must admit I was frightened to read this last installment, for I felt the characters would leave me at last. But I put my trust in Rowling, who had never failed me before.

And now I can breathe a sigh of relief. Everything, from the unveiling of Snape’s secret love, to the explanation of the ways of life and death from Albus Dumbledore, was executed perfectly and without rush. Rowling kept her flair however, with great and terrible battle sequences, just like old times. It was like a great meal, perfectly portioned, and I was satisfied. For Rowling has told us from the very beginning: In time, everything will come to light.
— Francesca Federico, age 15

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I am now put into a position to find a fault with a fabulous book — and I’ve read all the previous Harry Potter books at least eight times and this was the best one. The action was great from the start, with the maneuvers of the Death Eaters as they were trying to attack Harry, his friends and the members of the Order of the Phoenix.

What I didn’t like is that there was sometimes too much action; it wasn’t as realistic as it could be. Each adventure happened too quickly and there were too many coincidences. Also I loved the conversations between Ron, Hermione and Harry in the previous books, and there wasn’t as much this time.

The most memorable character for me was Belatrix Lestrange, the Death Eater. She was so crazed, and so deeply devoted to Voldemort, and it was amazing how she was killed almost the same way as her cousin, Sirius Black.

For me, the 11 major deaths were very interesting, the way people died and how that corresponded with the plot. For example, it was sad to the point of tears when Dobby died only moments after saving Harry, as was the death of Hedwig, my favorite character.

The realization that one of the greatest series is over will take a few weeks to handle. Just like how Voldemort wanted, there will be no more happiness.
— Paolo Federico-O'Murchu, age 10

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