Re: My daughter and I finished it last night.
I'm reading it a 2nd time. I read it really fast the first time so I could pass it off to my son. Now I have to go back and absorb the details.
I was completely thrown by the identity of the HBP, and like you, I'm trying to figure out the double agent thing. Dumbledore's not a dumb guy- I dont think the HPB could pulled the wool over his eyes for all those years. Still, given Dumby's fate, I'm not sure what to think. I suspect Dumby must have known what was coming, otherwise he wouldnt have petrified Harry to keep him from interfering. Maybe it's all part of some master plan to be revealed in the next book. Maybe Dumby didnt suffer the fate we think he did-hmmmmm?
I agree with you about Malfoy- that kid is going to rise up the death eater ranks. But Pettigrew? He's too much of a coward to be of much consequence.
What did you make of the first chapter? It appeared to be of little importance to me, but there were some interesting parallels between the real world response to 9/11 and the war on terror.
And why the army of dead guys? What was the point of introducing them?
Next book should be interesting. Wonder what setting Rowlings is going to use given the mighty trio wont be attending Hogwarts next year.
And love will prevail. Lupin and Tonks will get married and have pink haired werewolf children. Bill and Fleur will give Mrs. Weasly some grandchildren. Ron and Hermione will do more than snog, and Harry will remain pure of mind, heart and body, as any good hero should.
