Booklist

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J. K. Rowling - Harry Potter continues his quest to find out more about Voldemort and his role in destroying the Dark Lord. I must begin by saying that I enjoyed this book less than some of the other recent ones, however, the last part of the book is very exciting and emotional. The book takes it time in the beginning to build up steam. It's a couple of chapters before we even pick up with what's going on with Harry. The first chapter about the new Minister of Magic and Prime Minister of England was slightly interesting but unnecessary. It didn't drive the book at all. Merely an aside which is, in my opinion, a bad way to start a book. Later, as we get into life at Hogwarts, we begin to see Harry struggle with the part he must ultimately play in the destruction of Voldemort. To add difficulty to his life, he and Ron both have begun the whole "teenage crush" thing and must deal with their feelings for the gals in their lives. As Dumbledore and Harry team up at the end to solve another piece of the Voldemort puzzle, the book picks up the pace. In the end, a battle ensues at Hogwarts and someone very important dies at the hands of someone unexpected. Harry ends the book realizing his life has changed and he has a mission to fulfill...one that may or may not include returning to Hogwarts. As I've said before, this is not my favorite of the recent books but it certainly opens up great possibilities for the last book. I am sad that the rumor is that Harry will die. This is possibly a necessary step for the climax of the story but I will miss the world of magic that is Harry Potter after it is all complete. It's been a most satisfying ride.