Scott Klein Mr. Marcus

English Period 1

While I read many books this summer, my favorite was Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows, by J.K. Rowling. This final installment to the famous series takes Harry and his friends, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, on a heart pounding adventure across the wizard world. Voldemort, Harry Potter’s archenemy and leader of the dark wizards, has destroyed Potter’s life. He and his minions have killed not only Harry’s parents but also his godfather and mentor, Dumbledore. Dumbledore has sent Harry and his friends on an impossible mission to destroy Voldemort with only a few tools and a point in the right direction. But, Harry will do the impossible to avenge his parents and finish his mentor’s work.

J.K. Rowling has outdone herself in this seventh and last novel. I recommend it, but only if you wish to stay up until one in the morning, not being able to take your eyes off the page. Although the book does continue the story from the other six novels, the plot of The Deathly Hollows has unexpected elements and makes you question what you thought you knew from the earlier stories. Rowling uses many literary elements to create excitement and tension in this novel. There are many examples of foreshadowing, characterization, and symbolism in the novel. The author keeps the reader on the edge of his or her seat by alluding to things yet to come. Unfortunately, most examples of these foreshadowings would give away essential parts of the story and so I cannot divulge these details. Rowling also uses symbolism effectively. The Petronis Charm takes the form of an animal which represents the character's personality - Harry Potter Petronis becomes a stag representing his bravery and leadership skills. Finally, with Rowling's omnipotent narrating, the reader is able to delve deep into the thoughts and emotions of Harry.

The Deathly Hallows is by far the goriest and depressing book of the series and takes the action up to the next level. As the main characters grow up so does the maturity of the plot. The story develops from a children’s fantasy novel with Harry meeting his dear friends and having petty competitions with the obnoxious Malfoy, to an adult adventure book that includes fighting the un-dead, killing giant snakes (also called basilisks) and having wizard duels to the death. It is as though the readers grow up with the Harry. J.K. Rowling’s foreshadowing, symbolism, characterization and unique story has created a can’t miss series that everyone, young or old, should read.

(The following link is a clip to a preview of the movie version of this novel. Wait a few seconds before clicking twice, or it will restart)

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2799962393/