Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

SPOILER ALERT! (FOR THOSE RARE PEOPLE)
The trials and tribulations of the Triwizard Tournament are always fun and fascinating to read. But for me, this is one of the books in the series I enjoy the least.
With Voldemort’s return at the centre, The Goblet of Fire becomes a springboard for this uprising to dominate the next three books and things just become a whole lot more gloomy. Cedric’s death is so horrible and sad and still makes me angry when I read it. Not to mention that stupid, annoying Cornelius Fudge and his refusal to believe the truth! Such a defiant idiot who indecently helps to tip the circumstances into Voldemort’s favour. I always dread reading that hospital wing scene as I know it’s only going to serve as a ominous foreshadowing of dark and desperate times in the magical community.
The tournament is interesting enough (my favourite task is the maze) but with the introduction of Rita Skeeter, Mr. Crouch, Barty Crouch Jr. and Voldemort at full power, there is a definite dampening of spirits. I even find that the tasks themselves are a very quick read compared to other events in Harry’s fourth year.

A crucial part of the Harry Potter puzzle, but there just seems to be too many depressing elements to make it a favourite of mine. It could be worse though, it could be The Order of the Phoenix…

Is The Goblet of Fire one of your favourite books in the series? Which Triwizard Tournament task is up your alley? Do you think it can be depressing at times? Let me know!


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