Jane's Great Re-read: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix – Review

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. It was with no small amount of trepidation that I approached this one. Because dear me CAPSLOCK!Harry really is a sulky pain in the you-know-where. That said my memory did lie to me because I found the novel far more compelling and satisfying than I remember.
It is such a dark novel, so many themes which are disturbing. Umbridge being as vile as I remembered if not more so. Her quill and the fact she’s willing to use physical force against students. There is a scene in which Dumbledore calls her on it which made me cheer.
Of course Dumbledore’s Army is fantastic and the way that Harry is subtly pressured into it. The room of requirements being flipping well the best doohickie ever.
The first time I read Order of the Phoenix I felt as though Harry had changed too much but now I think it was judged right. He’s traumatised fought against Voldemort and because of the wands has managed to escape. He’s then been cut off with no news so all he can do is shout and stew.
Harry’s frustration mirrors Sirius’ and I can’t think of Sirius without a lump coming to my throat. The films got the casting so wrong for the Marauders they were all far too old and Gary Oldman is nowhere near the Sirius who lives in my head.
This book is partly about Dumbledore’s mistakes there are so many things that come home to roost which cause the loss of so many.
Basically this book is far better than I remember and there is lots to love.
5 things

Neville Longbottom. Long suffering Gryffindor begins to find himself in this novel. I love Neville so much, there were so many things which had held him back. Using his Father’s wand. A demanding Grandmother. The scene between him and his mother at St Mungo’s is the most painful scene in the book.
Luna Lovegood. I don’t think any further explanation is required she is just brilliant.
Hermione’s DA coins. How badass is she? Marietta got what she deserved.
Fred and George’s farewell. Best exit from school ever. I love the swamp.
Ginny Weasley strong young woman kicking ass and taking names. I always wished there was a bit more of Ginny in the books. She is great.