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Order of the Phoenix

I recently completed the Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix audio book written by J.K. Rowling and read by Jim Dale.

I feel that this was the best written book in the Harry Potter series so far. Even though the book was quite long, there didn't feel like there was much extraneous story. Everything seemed focused on and relevant to the main thrust of the story.

Having said that, I did feel that the ending was a bit of a disappointment. After so much media hype about "someone" dying, the actual event was very bland. Likewise, with the set-up of Voldemort's return and the war that will inevitably ensue, it was odd that we didn't actually see Voldemort or his gang but for a few minutes. Of course, those issues are related more to publicity hype and expectation building than the actual book.

I was very impressed with the events that Rowling spun out in this story. She really took some bold moves with the chaos at Hogwarts and the dangers of working in the Order. I also loved the "screen time" given to some of the supporting characters, especially Ginny and Neville.

Jim Dale's delivery of this audio book was amazing. He continues to be on of my favorite actors for audio books. His voicing and emotion for each character were dead on, so much so that I could recognize a character's voice before knowing who was supposed to be speaking. Dale really brought the story to life in a way that makes me feel that the audio book enhanced the story rather than just being another medium for obtaining the story.

Overall it was a very enjoyable book which was very well written and wonderfully performed. 9/10