OOP: New to the group & just read OotP

[Adam Corbett]

No: HPFGUIDX 62556

Hey, I'm new to the group - trying to catch up, but finding it fairly 
impossible, obviously.  I'm sure I'll have specific questions soon.  
Might be some spoilers in here.

One thing I'd like to comment on is how this kid's series is so often 
taken as a book for adults too.

Now, obviously, HP is pretty amazing, or we wouldn't all be reading 
it, and there's no doubt that JKR is a very talented writer - 
humorous, easy to read, with very entertaining characters.  But I 
disagree that the plot is that adult.  True, there is much 
progression, but the one thing that stands out for me in every single 
book is the amazing unfairness of the entire HP world.

This, to me, is a totally child-like view of the world - everything 
is stacked against me.  And obviously, a hero needs to overcome 
things, but sometimes it can get frustrating to read.  So much of the 
wizarding world is convinced by the idiot Fudge, and the useless 
media.  Meanwhile, the new MoM infiltrator has the entire school 
under her thumb.

And while it makes sense with the story, it's a pattern consistent 
with every book.  Snape is ridiculously biased, and no one bothers to 
stop him. McGonagall, on the other hand, who should be for him, is 
fair (usually) to a fault.

Meanwhile, the kids in the school have memories like fruit flies, 
alternating supporting Harry and detesting him or fearing him or 
mocking him or pitying or whatever.  Is this detrimental to the 
books? No, but it's a very child-like situation, that JKR hasn't 
really progressed from in further books.

It's the same with the refusal to tell the kids things, and then 
Dumbledore's 'wrap-ups", which inflict a certain finality.  I'd love 
for there to be something just totally unexpected, even once 
Dumbledore (and JKR) has set it down.  Like Sirius returning from the 
curtain that was in fact just a portal.  Or something of that nature.

Anyway, blathered on a bit much.  I love the series, love the 
writing, but I don't we should make more of it than what it is - a 
truly wonderful children's series.


On a random tangent - is anyone else's favorite character Lee 
Jordon?  I would love to see more of this guy.  His commentary is 
among my favorite writing in the series.

Thanks.

Adam