Patterns between the books as a series. OoP not as out of place?

[Claire]

No: HPFGUIDX 68196

--- In HPforGrownups at yahoogroups.com, "Kirstini" <kirst_inn at y...> 
wrote:
> 

(big snip)

> I'd really be interested in hearing the views of a post-OotP 
convert 
> reading their way through the series as a set of five books for 
the 
> first time. Anyone made any recently? I wonder if we need this 
sort 
> of alternative perception when assessing whether or not OotP was 
as 
> successful as the others, or even if it fits properly within the 
> series.
> 
> Kirstini

Me:
I don't think you need to be a recent convert to HP to come to that 
conclusion.  One of the beauties of JKR's writing is that she allows 
her characters to develop, to be three-dimensional individuals, with 
three-dimensional thoughts.  As a reviewer, and possibly others, 
noted, in contrast, Nancy Drew never aged, never changed--in 
essence, could be written from a formula (and pretty much was).  OoP 
is, I believe, a logical progression in the series and definitely 
has a place there.  I reread the first 4 right before I read 5 and 
am impressed by the physical, psychological and emotional 
progression of the characters.  Harry has just emerged from a 
devastating encounter with LV.  Is it any wonder, really, that his 
emotions--especially his anger--are worn on his sleeve?

Claire