[rating:4/5]

Well, I finally done did it! I had read the first three Harry Potter books, quite some time ago, and had simply fallen behind in keeping up with the rest of the remaining stories. Other than the fact that I enjoyed Goblet of Fire as a fun diversion, and give it five stars for its entertainment value, I remain somewhat perplexed at the popularity of the series – they’re great fun to read, the stories have interesting characters, and the ever-changing plot holds one’s interest. Just the same, the Potter series simply doesn’t strike me as what I would call “literature” even thought they have all been, so far, very enjoyable – and sometimes that’s what reading should be all about.

I will say that with this book and the next (which I’ve already started to read), I broke out of the mold and saw the movie versions first – that’s something that I almost never do: I’m sure I’ll finish the series before the next one comes out. Again, the Potter series may not be great “literature” they remain a very pleasurable reading experience.