Order of the Phoenix (2026) Audiobook
Clear reminder that I "borrowed" this from a friend and generally do my best not to support the author.
With Order of the Phoenix, we see Kiera Knightley take on the role of Umbridge. This was probably one of the stranger casting choices in the series so far but she does do an excellent job in the role. I think it took longer for her to grow on me than previous Defence against the Dark Arts teachers, but it is also a role that is meant to make you feel uncomfortable and have you on tender hooks in her presence as opposed to the very likeable Lupin.
This, like Goblet of Fire before it, is a long one and there is a lot going on over the course of this book. At times, it felt a little as thought Voldemort wasn't a large enough presence in the world. I wish there was a little bit more mystery and misery hidden beneath the surface of the greater world. Especially when you consider the prophecy plays such a key role here, I think the contents of it does fall a little flat in the grand scheme. It doesn't feel significant that it is destroyed ultimately. In the same vein, we hear all about Hagrid's adventure with the giants but it's very exposition heavy rather than having Harry live in a world that is showing signs of an impending war. I think Goblet of Fire did a better job of this with the attack at the World Cup for example. In this books favour, I do appreciate linking the news of the Azkaban escape with the visit to St. Mungo's, a great example of showing us the impact on the world.
Additionally, while it is infuriating that the ministry acts so blind to the reality in front of them. I think it is a fantastic side to the story that mimics the real-world denial of reality that we often see in the news. The propaganda, fearmongering and escape goating is really well built throughout the story and provides the outside perspective on the previous books that we never really had access to in the past.
The performances continue to be excellent, and I particularly enjoyed the range of emotions that Harry goes through here along with Hugh Laurie's increased opportunities to be expressive as Dumbledore. His presence fighting the Death Eaters in the ministry is an excellent moment.
I'm very much looking forward to the release of Half-Blood Prince and the conclusion after that.
