|
|
|
Book's Description
Young wizard-in-training Harry Potter prepares for a competition between Hogwarts School of Magic and two rival schools, develops a crush on Cho Chang, and wishes above all to be a normal fourteen-year-old. Reprint.
Customer Reviews
Harry Potter Is The Best!!!!!!! ,19/10/2007
personally i believe that harry potter is the best series ever!!!!!! i think that anyone that is not sure in reading this you should read the first one. trust me you will want to read it!
|
|
Bigger, Darker, More Hormonal--Still Great! ,14/07/2007
Based on the size of this book, I'm guessing Miss Rowling no longer works with an editor ... And that's ok. Not brilliant, but ok.
The truth is, despite the 4-star rating, this is one of two (so far) books in this series that is ... just ... too ... long. There's a brilliant four hundred page book buried somewhere in these seven hundred pages, and patient readers will find it hard to miss. Of course, the automatic question after a book as fantastic as Prisoner of Azkaban is, what to do for an encore? The answer, J.K. Rowling says via her fourth installment, is: something totally different.
Ladies and gentlemen, let's offer a big round of applause for the newest addition to the Hogwarts pantheon: Death. Make sure Death's comfortable, good readers, because he's going to be with this series for awhile. Goblet of Fire begins and ends in murder, and those of us who had at one time been comfortable with the notion that everything would turn out all right at the end of any given Potter book now suddenly find ourselves on uneven footing ... That's a good thing, literarily speaking.
There's also adolescent angst (nothing comparable to what's coming in Book 5), dragons, mer-people, labryinths, and enough of that magical creativity that is Rowling's multi-layered plotwork to sustain even the most impatient Potterphile to the last page. I particularly enjoyed Rowling having a go at the press by characterizing them in the form of one of the series' most contemptible characters, Rita Skeeter.
What's missing is Hogwarts Quidditch, which the author cleverly explains away by replacing it with the Tri-Wizarding tournament ... but then, most of you know the details, and those of you who don't (all twenty-six of you insect-minded, non-reading, illiterate, plebian slugs) will just have to give in, like the rest of us muggle sheep, to Rowling's infectious fantasy series.
This one is better than Chamber of Secrets and Order
|
|
The Best so far... ,28/07/2008
I have read the first five books in the Harry Potter series this summer. My favorite book in this series that I have read so far is Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This book was so interesting that I just could not put it down. From the Quidditch World Cup championship at the beginning, to the last page of the book I was hooked. The Tri-Wizard Championship was a great new twist at Hogwarts that had never before been done, and the arrangement of the book was slightly changed from the previous three. This made this book more fun and exciting to read than the very first one, because the reader never knew what was going to happen or what to expect. The ending was the best part of the book, and was impossible to figure out until you got there. I have not read the sixth or seventh book of this series by J.K. Rowling yet, but I feel that so far this book is the best.
|
|
and i though it coulnd't get any better ,16/11/2007
When I though It coulnd't get any better and then I get the Goblet of Fire and its interesting story, suspense and darker trama. If you've seen the movie you should really read this book since you are missing some of the best parts... I give this book 5 stars because it deserves it, it is a great book with a deep story, a story that it certainly does not end here and leaves you wondering whast going to happen next
|
|
A little darker... ,25/09/2008
This is when the Harry Potter series starts to get a bit "darker". The ending will make you buy the next book. You will want to know what happends.
|
|
the book is great but Jim Dale's narration is AWFUL!! ,04/08/2008
I love all of the Harry Potter books and think that JK Rowling is a master storyteller, but whoever decided that Jim Dale would be a good narrator for this series was seriously mistaken. Aside from the fact that he makes almost all of the characters sound like they are from the East End of London and have a mouth full of bread (aside from Hermione and Ginny who he makes WHINE all of the time), he also mispronounces many of the words, which is quite annoying. He says "Voldermort" without pronouncing the "t", and "accio" as assio, just to name a few! I mean, did they actually have JK Rowling listen to his reading before they hired him to do the WHOLE series??? If it is at all possible, DON'T waste your money on this audio of Harry Potter, go on Amazon.co.uk and get the version read by Stephen Fry. He reads this series the way they are supposed to be read!!! Stephen Fry is FANTASTIC!
|
|
Torn on how to rate it -- good plot advancement, interesting characters but huge plot hole ,08/08/2008
Summary:
This is the 4th book in the Harry Potter series. It follows the same style, darkening tone, similar formulas as the prior three books -- new mode of transport / new magic device, new Dark Arts Teacher that is obviously a bad guy and nice convenient wrap-up of the various elements introduced. I would have given this 5 stars if there is not the huge plothole of why does Harry have to be the winner of the Triwizard tournament when undercover Death Eater could have just given Harry a Potkey at anyone point in the year.
Setting:
Rowling continues to develop a great fantasty milieu for YA (Young adults). The world is a great combination of mundane and magical. The World Cup of Quiddich is inspired and does a great job of showing the extent of the wizard world around the globe. The interface between Muggles and Wizards could use a bit of work as the method shown in the book is clearly problematic for keeping the wizard world secret.
Characters:
The main characters do advance a certain amount but still a bit on the thin side. The introduction of boy-girl relationships is an interesting element and needed given the age of the characters. Harry and Ron are clearly thick with regards to Hermiene. It is unfortunate but a needed part of a boy growing up. Hermiene is handled quite well and show an advanced maturity fitting her character (she even has some fun for a change).
Action:
The action is consistent in tone and description from the prior books. Harry is entered into the Tri-wizards tournament by someone else to get him lured into dangerous situations. Note: this is a lame plot device for getting him to Valdamort. The tests could have been a bit more difficult / interesting -- the dragon task description is a bit thin for my taste and the maze was clearly there just to get some Harry character development and move him to Valdamort. The confrontation in the graveyard was well done and help
|
|
Best In The Series ,29/07/2007
Having now read all of the books in the Harry Potter series, I personally feel The Goblet Of Fire was the best and most memorable book. The tasks that the characters had to accomplish were unique and fun to read. Plus the characters are beginning to grow up and experience a lot of coming-of-age turbulance and confusion. They encounter trials tougher than they have ever experienced before. This adds to the drama and interest of the story. The characters are growing up and we with them. We relate to them. I remember far more of the details of this book than I do of the others in the series and am looking forward to reading it again.
|
|
Great Read ,27/05/2008
Title: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Author: J.K. Rowling
Date: July 8, 2000
Publisher: Scholastic press
Reading Level: Ages 9-12
# of Pages: 734
Genre: Fiction
In this fourth edition the main character Harry Potter is now 14 years old. Of course, Harry is still that same boy from book one with the lightning bolt scar, only now he is slightly older and he begins to understand the challenges that face him ahead. It seems like just another year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry until the Tri-Wizard Tournament is announced and Harry is mysteriously entered into the tournament as a contestant. The Tri-Wizard Tournament is a magical competition that tests the contestant's bravery, knowledge, and magical skill. Along with the tournament readers are introduced to two other magical schools (Durmstrang and Beauxbatons) and get a rare glimpse of the wizarding world during the Quidditch World Cup. Again, Rowling combines her vivid details of the wizarding world to paint an amazing picture that allows the reader to revel in even the smallest details that make Harry Potter so special. Along with the death-defying Tri-Wizard Tournament, Harry must now focus on the return of Lord Voldamort and his death eaters. Once again, Rowling also introduces a few new characters into the story, both good and evil. A new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor arrives at Hogwarts and some problems are created by house-elves throughout the story. The positive about this book is that they first third of the book spent reviewing the previous three Harry Potter books, so even if you have not read them you can start at book four and have a good idea of what is happening. Also, many points of the plot are left open leaving room for book five.
There really is not a negative to this book. Honestly, after reading the first three books I was leery that Rowling was not going to be able to continue writing such engaging stories, but
|
|
J.K. Rowling brings more maturity to the series. ,19/06/2008
After the brilliant Prisoner of Azkaban expectations were running very high.
Fortunately, Rowling delivers yet again.
Another book that was almost impossible to put down.
Azkaban was shorter, but this one is really long.
Its length didn't deter anyone from reading through it in record time, including me.
Adding even more drama and action and a story line that was simply amazing, Goblet of Fire succeeds on every level.
Goblet adds a more mature theme to the series as the characters get older, which adds even further depth to the series.
Another winner from Rowling and another must have/must read.
Recommended!!!
|
|
Pure Epic-ness! ,22/08/2008
While I firmly believe that the Prisoner of Azkaban is the true beginning of the series that is now known as the Harry Potter series, this is the novel that truly cements its grandeur. All of the characters begin to grow in this novel and Rowling seems to be truly growing as writer. She seems to have a firm grip on where this novel is going to go and she also seems less intimated about bringing in the true darkness of the "bad" characters. It was not until this novel that I saw why some parents would not think that it is age appropriate. I do not agree with this opinion, however I do understand it. There are some genuinely creepy, moments in this book, but I truly appreciate because I think of how many children have grown up with these books and how Rowling allows the characters in the novel to grow with them. I believe this is one of the series' greatest strengths. The complexity of the characters grow intensely and I also think that this is the story that truly connects Harry to the other important characters in the novel: Dumbledore and Voldemort. Rowling is no longer writing archetypal characters; she embrasses the archetypes that she has created, but truly allows them to become characters outside of the stereotypes. I always felt that Dumbledore was a little to similar to Gandalf the Grey, but Dumbledore starts to transcend his stereotypes as well as others in the novel. Defintely worth a read, however I would begin at least with Prisoner of Azkaban before jumping into this novel.
|
|
What is right and what is easy... ,19/05/2008
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (year 4 at Hogwarts) is unquestionably the pivotal book of the series. Up to this point, the principal villain of the series has been merely seeking a way to return to his former power, and so his presence has been indirect. This book makes it clear immediately (in the first chapter) that we are on the brink of the Dark Lord's rebirth, after which, the stakes will undoubtedly get higher. The tone of the book is also more dark and serious than the previous ones, with torture and death coming into play for the first time. It is both literally and metaphorically the turning point for all of the action that is to follow.
There are many great things about the book. For one thing, despite it's fairly hefty page count, it has a fair amount of action, and still keeps your interest for the most part. Granted, the Tri-Wizard Tournament is probably not strictly necessary in the grand scheme of things, and the whole plot involving the portkey to the graveyard is needlessly complex (why not just slip Harry a portkey at--oh, say ANY time during the year?), but the story still flows, and is fun to read. In addition, the story continues to build on Harry's strength of character, which is evidenced by his actions throughout.
The most impactive part of the book, by far, is the last portion. Faced with a very real danger and tragic circumstances, the students of Hogwarts are left with a choice--the choice that is perhaps the philosophic center of the Harry Potter series, and which can teach us all a very powerful lesson in our "real" lives as well. It is not the choice between right and wrong, but rather, the choice between what is right and what is easy. The quote to this effect by Dumbledore at the final feast is not emphasized especially, but it certainly speaks to me loud and clear, and seems to ring true as one of the most central themes for the series as a whole--and worthy of deep contemplation.
|
|
I Love Jim Dale ,06/07/2008
I adored reading the Harry Potter books, but I always wished I could hear them read in the appropriate British accent. Jim Dale is not only an excellent reader of the books, he creates remarkable voices for each character. His readings have given me new insight into the books. I recommend purchasing any of the audio CDs of the Harry Potter books, as read by Jim Dale.
|
|
The best of the series ,04/10/2007
Having read now the entire series, i have to say this is my favorite, its the turning point, when the plot begins, and the main story takes off, and its the funnier one.
Also the ending surprised me more than the other 6 books, dont know why
|
|
The Fourth Book of Potter ,16/09/2008
I have this distinct feeling that Book Three was the last "light-hearted" Harry Potter book. Because I was nearly in tears several times at the end of this one. I also have this sense that I should have started reading Potter in earnest more than a decade ago. Oh well. Better late than never.
I've got to hand it to JKR -- the woman can create complex, twisted plots like no one else. And even with such knowledge, I still can't help but be drawn into her characters that seem to be who -- or who not -- they purport to be, and... just wow. Nothing and no one is safe.
As in the first three books, I can't help but be amazed by the entire Potter universe, and her world-building can't be lauded enough times. Such a fertile imagination is rare.
I foresee this as a pivotal book in the saga, and a commendable work.
|
|
An amazing novel ,30/08/2008
Without a doubt this is my favorite novel of the series so far. The action in this novel was intense and I finished the novel in a couple of days. JK Rowling always does a great job of mixing foreshadowing and mystery. With each novel, I have begun to realize that nothing is as it seems. I thought I finally figured out the plot, only to be completely surprised in the end.
The novel comes after the Prisoner of Azakaban, where we learned that Sirius did not murder Harry's parents, and that wormtail was the actual villain. Wormtail escaped at the end, though, with an oracle that he would nurse Voldemort back to health. That is where the forth book picks up, Voldemort and Wormtail have returned to the house of Voldemort's father to regain health. Additionally, armed with information from a ministry employee, they seek to destroy Harry Potter again.
An old tournament is reborn, and Harry is chosen to compete although it should have been impossible. He competes and his luck remains with him until the end. Questions will be answered in this novel. Will the Death Eaters rise again? Will a student die? Will Hogwarts stay open? Will the Ministry oppose Voldemort? The Goblet of Fire is a great read.
|
|
CD version is great! ,12/07/2007
The CD of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is great! Jim Dale is the most wonderful narrator. He does different voices for all the characters, and he makes the books come alive! The Harry Potter books are even better when read by Jim Dale!
|
|
Goblet of Fire gets a silver medal ,25/10/2007
"Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" shows JK Rowling still lively and engaging with Harry's newest challenge--the Triwizard Tournament. Technically, he is too young...yet his name comes forth from the Goblet of Fire. At the beginning of the book, there are a series of mysterious deaths,from fear itself,in the "most haunted house in England." These events seem disconnected,but Rowling skillfully weaves them together.
Harry's challenges in the Triwizard Tournament are puzzling and fun. Rowling keeps her "head in the game." She keeps the reader in suspense as to what will happen next. It's less cheerful as he previous installments,and there is more gruesomeness,especially in the closing confrontation with Voldemort. There's the gossip columnist Rita Skeeter,a villainess with a personality,and who adds a contemporary touch to an otherwise timeless Quest narrative.
"Goblet of Fire" is longer and more convoluted than the previous books,but Rowling still keeps the story fresh.But how would she fare as the series neared its end?
|
|
Going Strong ,24/09/2007
The fourth Harry Potter is significantly darker than the first three. harrys is growing up, and is about to face some difficult challenges. Unlike the first three books, the fourth Harry starts not with Harry's departure to Hogwarts, but with a Quidditch tournament, during which some dark misteries are unveiled, misteries which are signs of the things to come.
The Quidditch tournament, another year at Hogwarts and a Triwizard tournament are the highlights. Harry comes face to face with his arch-enemy Voldemort, which is bound to split the wizarding world.
Though beautifully and expertly written, the fourth Harry Potter is just a tad too long, with descriptions that are more detailed and lengthy (sometimes unnecessarily so) than usual. Still, the fourth Harry is just as gripping as the first three, and keeps the reader wanting for more. And fortunately there is more. Order of Phoenix, here I come!
|
|
Another Great Harry Potter Novel ,02/08/2007
The fourth book in the Harry Potter series, this is the turning point in the saga.
Harry finds himself attending the Quidditch World Cup with the Weasleys and Hermione, happy to be away from the Dursleys. While there, the Death Eaters make a return. When Harry returns to Hogwarts, he finds that the historic Tri-Wizard tournament is going to be held at Hogwarts, and he is mysteriously entered.
J. K. Rowling continues the story with new, intriguing characters and breathtaking action. As Harry grows older, the story becomes darker. The story is one that cannot be put down.
|
|
Growing up is hard to do ,22/07/2007
A lot of excitement is in the air when Dumbledore announces that the Wizard's Cup will be held at Hogwart's. However, only students of at least a certain level and age can be involved (please bear with me - I can't remember the age right now and the book is buried). When Harry's name somehow is entered into the cup and a second Hogwart's champion is selected, a scandal is narrowly averted. Harry does not want to participate but he has no choice. "Mad Eye" Moody, who is teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts, helps Harry, as do his friends Ron and Hermione. However, things are not as they seem (when are they ever?)
This begins in a fairly light-hearted vein, as have the past books, and takes a very dark turn toward the end. This will set the tone for the upcoming remainder of the series. Harry and pals are growing up - they attend their first dance, they start to notice the opposite gender and think about dating - things are changing. It's not always a good thing, but everything changes and nothing can stop it.
This was a solid work, with a lot of terrific character development in the story. A strong recommend.
|
|
Amazing! ,09/12/2007
So far my favorite book! I love this book for multiple reasons. The first is all of the interesting things you learns about Harry, Voldemort, and the rest. The second, is all the interesting things you learn about magical creatures and such. The third, is seeing all the kids grow up(*sniff*), and last is reading adventure after adventure and solving mystery after mystery. It's amazing what JKR has done with a simple plot line. She's added characters, she's got side plot lines and even more!
Get this book. You wont be disappointed.
|
|
GREAT BOOKS -- great find ,08/09/2008
I ordered this book used/very good condition for my daughter. When the book came it smelled of smoke. I e-mailed GREAT BOOKS and they promptly sent another book is wonderful condition. GREAT BOOKS - Great customer service - great find.
JB
|
|
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire ,30/09/2007
What can one say? Rowlings continues with her wonderful story, keeping her characters constantly endearing. The adventures continue and no matter what your age you will be caught up in the excitement and magic as Harry learns more about his background, his strengths and his weaknesses.
If you have not read Harry Potter at all, then you must start with the first book and read all seven of them, you will be transported out of this world and into one that will bind you as magically as it has bound me
|
|
|
|
