| What a phenomenon Harry Potter books have become. The first three were best sellers in the way every author dreams of having their books sold. The fourth book, Goblet of Fire, was sold out before it was released. The US publisher and the UK publisher are on edition number three and it has only been out a matter of weeks. Most bookstores sell them as fast as they become available. The question is "Is the book really that good?" When I received my copy which is a UK version published by Bloomsbury I was shocked to see it was 636 pages long. This seemed like too many pages for a book about wizards, witches, dragons, and giants. Determined to see if the author had made a mistake by making it too long I launched into it. It only took a few pages until I forgot the length and became totally immersed in the story. It begins with Harry having severe pain in his scare that means Voldermort, the dark wizard who killed Harry's parents is near or becoming more powerful. With the thought of Voldermort being back on the scene pushed to the back of his mind, Harry goes to visit his friends the Weasleys who have invited him to attend the Quiddich World Cup. Only matters get out of hand at the Quiddich World Cup and it becomes more apparent that Voldermort may truly be active again. After the World Cup Harry and his friends return to Hogwart to school. Soon after the students arrival it is announced this year the school will host the Triwizard Tournament. Being too young to participate Harry wonders who the contestant from Hogwart will be. One contestant is selected from each school by the Goblet of Fire to take part in the tournaments three tasks. When the ceremony of selection is carried out for an unknown reason the Goblet presents Harry as a contestant. The biggest mystery of the book is how did Harry's name get in the Goblet since he did not put it there. The rest of the book is about Harry's participation in the tourney and the events that surround his taking part. As always J.K. Rowling has developed innovative characters, mind boggling creatures and exceptional events making the book electrifying. You truly never know what the next page will bring. Did I feel the book was too long? No. In fact the ending is so well done I have already ordered the fifth book of the series. I must find out what happens next. This book deserves all the success it is having and if I could give it six thistles would. Since the highest rating I am allowed is four thistles I grant that with regret that I cannot give it more. You can order your copy by clicking on the appropriate cover. The prices quoted are for hard back copies. If you want both versions then just come back to this page to order the second one. If you want to pay with cash or call in the order go here.
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