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Friday, October 13, 2023

# 2023 # Book Review

#BookReview: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child


Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, a two-part stage play written by Jack Thorne, based on an original story by J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany, and Jack Thorne, takes readers back to the magical world of Harry Potter, albeit in a different format. While it offers a nostalgic reunion with beloved characters and explores new themes, the play falls short of capturing the same enchantment and depth as the original series.

The story picks up where the epilogue of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows left off, following the next generation of Hogwarts students, particularly Harry's son, Albus Severus Potter. The play delves into the complexities of their relationships, the weight of legacies, and the consequences of choices made in the past.

One of the strengths of the play is its ability to resurrect familiar characters, allowing readers to reconnect with their favorites. It's a delight to see Harry, Ron, Hermione, and others once again, even in their older and more mature forms. The play also introduces new characters, such as Albus and Scorpius Malfoy, who provide fresh dynamics and perspectives.

However, the pacing and structure of the play can be problematic. The plot unfolds rapidly, with numerous time jumps and magical escapades, leaving little room for character development and emotional depth. The story feels rushed, and some pivotal moments lack the necessary buildup and impact, leaving readers longing for a more immersive experience.

Another issue lies in the portrayal of certain characters. While it's natural for characters to evolve, some of the choices made for their development feel inconsistent with their original personalities from the books. This discrepancy can be jarring for fans who have grown attached to these characters over the years.

Additionally, the dialogue and prose, being written in a script format, lack the descriptive richness and immersive qualities found in Rowling's novels. The lack of narration and detailed descriptions can make it challenging to fully visualize the magical world and connect with the characters on a deeper level.

On the positive side, the play does explore thought-provoking themes, such as the importance of friendship, the consequences of our choices, and the burdens of expectations. It gives readers an opportunity to reflect on the enduring impact of the original series and the challenges faced by the next generation.

Ultimately, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a mixed bag. While it offers a chance to revisit the beloved world of Harry Potter, it falls short in capturing the same magic and depth as the original series. The rushed pacing, inconsistent character portrayals, and script format hinder the play from fully living up to the legacy of its predecessors.

Considering these factors, I rate Harry Potter and the Cursed Child with three out of five stars. It is worth experiencing for die-hard fans who crave more from the Wizarding World, but it may leave some longing for the immersive storytelling and enchantment that made the original series so exceptional.

RATING: 3/5


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