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

In Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, the fourth book in the series by J.K. Rowling, Harry goes back to Hogwarts only to be faced with a situation he did not put himself in, although many of his classmates think he did. A competition is being held between Hogwarts and two other wizarding schools and Harry’s name miraculously turns up and places him in the running even though he is not old enough to participate.

This book, like most of the rest, offers a wonderful look at a magical fantasy world but also a series of lessons. First of all, the competition puts an edge on Ron and Harry’s friendship, showing that sometimes friendships can be hard to keep and, just as in a romantic relationship, there must be understanding between partners. Fortunately Ron learns that friendship is worth fighting for.

Rowling is also able to use this opportunity to explore what wizards are like even if they’re not from Hogwarts, something that hasn’t really been seen before the fourth book. This is a way that opens up the magical world Rowling has created even more, fleshing it out with enough details for the magical world to seem even more believable to the reader.

In Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Rowling continues her fantasy series with flashbacks that flesh out her villian, fights, magical challenges, and a very powerful ending.