Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows by: J. K. Rowling

Yes, it is official! I have completed the Harry Potter series -- finally. And it was all that it promised and more. In the world of literature, there are many standards for good authors, and good writing. Just go to any literature course, and you will hear discussions on plot, character development, themes, symbolism, and a myriad of other ways to analyze a book. But I have always felt that bottom line, a book is only so good as what the reader gets out of it. Through seven books in this series, J. K. Rowling has proven time, and again, that she is an accomplished story teller. This is a book that has been a fun read -- and bottom line it is enjoyable to read. I don't usually get into the hype fiction, or cult classics, or whatever you prefer to call them -- but this book, and the series in general -- I found to be an exception to the rule. The traditional theme of good vs. evil -- with the ultimate climatic showdown is of course present. But this story has created an interesting main character, who sees himself facing the world alone -- in his epic struggle -- with a dramatic supporting group of characters that are true and loyal to the end. So the question now is -- what did I take from this book, with this reading? Well, I came to appreciate the power of friends, and the loyalty, and devotion they show time an again. The commitment of all those around Harry -- demonstrate consistently their devotion, not only to Harry, and the battle he must undertake, but also to the cause that he must fight. They have made it their cause -- and their showdown as well. The ultimate message of the book, as clearly stated by Dumbledore in the end -- that the best leaders are frequently those who have the role, and responsibility of leadership thrust upon them, are usually those most successful, and suited to the position. They are those that will usually not be allow themselves to be corrupted by the evils that they face, and the power that they ultimately find at their disposal. They will not abuse power, but recognize it for what it is -- a burden that carries responsibility -- and accountability to all those for whom they are responsible.