![[CLOSED] - PLEASE READ 'IMPORTANT' SECTION! - The Harry Potter Book Club! Your Notes for Chapters 22 & 23 of The Order of the Phoenix!](https://img5.saketami.com/storage/4/qx/im/9a2cd0-019e8403-d5e6-7b21-bd0a-86838e41b320.jpg)
[CLOSED] - PLEASE READ 'IMPORTANT' SECTION! - The Harry Potter Book Club! Your Notes for Chapters 22 & 23 of The Order of the Phoenix!
Added 2026-02-04 13:01:04 +0000 UTC
Comments
A very last minute comment - this is where I really start to love Ginny (my favourite character)! And good luck keeping this under six hours š
Kamilla Mari
2026-03-07 15:04:32 +0000 UTCJust a heads up, you commented about the correct chapters but they are number 22 and 23, not 23 and 24. It might confuse Veggie and he might skip your comment on chapter "24" if he thinks you're talking about the chapter that will be in the next book club.
Alias93
2026-03-05 12:06:50 +0000 UTCNamaskaram ! I missed last time but hope u had a biscuit& a verry harry xmas. These 2 Ch's r a strong reason for this being my fav book. Ch-23- Do/did u think Dumbledor has been avoiding Harry from start of book? It is explained later, but could u guess why? "How did u see the vision? " Dumbledor asked CALMLY !! What did u make of smoke serpent? I saw movie 1st, still I thought Harry was being possessed when he wanted to strike Dumbledor. If u were in Order, would u agree with Mad-eye, there is something funny about Potter kid? Ch-24- Harryās isolated struggle with his fears resonates deeply, as I faced similar loneliness in my teens. It pains me to see him so confused and pitiful at himself. Thanks for the delay & don't mind the abrupt ending, had a hectic few weeks at work (will edit if I get time to go through ch-24).
Civilized_Saint
2026-03-05 00:08:38 +0000 UTCHeya Veggie and Woozle! Chapter 23 is the reason I joined the book club and easily one of my favourite chapters of the entire series! The older I get and the longer I work in hospitals, the more I appreciate it. Also, I feel for Neville more and more. Not being able to talk to your own parents (for whatever reason), knowing they are still out there, is a feeling I wouldn't wish on anyone. Since there are loads of other comments making fantastic points, I'm just gonna say there is soo much characterization for so many people in just these two chapters, it's amazing. And I adore book Ginny. Can't wait to hear your thoughts on these! Also I'll stop spoiling the audiobook voice actors but if you're interested, there is an official website where they put all the names starring in the already released books! See you soon :)
DreamMyselfAway (Dreamy)
2026-03-04 21:37:29 +0000 UTCHey Veggie! This is definitely my favorite 2 chapters in this book! I live for these extra world building chapters, that make the book also really immersive for me and i can imagine being there. Also we see Lockhart!! Isn't it weird though, that he seems to have no physical impairment apart from writing? Ignoring his memory loss of course. But its kind of ironic, when you think about, that he made money with books. Good for him that he can do joined-up writing now though! Cant wait to hear your thoughts!
Jonas (Methanoutput)
2026-03-03 13:02:22 +0000 UTCI have to say, I really like Phineas. In know he is unpopular and cynical, but I do enjoy his character. I enjoy seeing how Dumbledore operates, he sees the value of using the portraits as a communication and Intel gathering tool, whereas other wizards havent ever really given portraits much attention.
Garry (Not Jerry)
2026-03-03 08:50:16 +0000 UTCTwo absolutely spectacular chapters.I look forward to every review yet this one is quite special. Now you know us āOG book clubbersā have literally been waiting 3 ENTIRE YEARS for your man (2nd only to Lupin) Glidroy to resurface in this epic cameo!! I'm so excited to hear your reaction!! Which means, we also know your heart will probably be ripped out mere seconds later so sorry about that. Quickly, I really appreciate the wait in Dumbledores office and at Grimmauld Pl. It is so REAL Might be a fictional moment but, I think it gives real world insight to how differently people can react to worry and grief in real time. Hope you and Wozel are having a great day
Rhea H Pelotto
2026-03-02 21:14:23 +0000 UTCIām so sorry for your loss and Iām glad you are back!
Badger Kat
2026-03-02 14:33:08 +0000 UTCAvoid spoiler comments today, or later you'll pay!
H
2026-03-02 08:00:04 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! Some things I liked in these chapters: - That Phineas is a bit of a git, and that Dumbledore just ignores his rudeness. - Sirius and Molly being friendly. - The way into St. Mungo seems so cool, I wish that was in the movie (like a lot of other stuff in these chapters, to be fair). - "Doctors? Those muggle nutters that cutĀ people up?". - This chapter is a real insight into Dumbledore's network, and his ways of being able to get vital info through different portraits. I love when the former headmistress counts them as they all arrive at St. Mungo's, and then disappears, clearly to inform Dumbledore on the latest news. Ā - "Won't take no for an answer!" Lockhart hasn't changed much. I think this Arthur incident helps explain a lot of what happened after the last Quidditch match. Yes, what Harry and George did was of course wrong, but this is why it's not that surprising that they reacted that strongly: Harry and George knows that Lucius is working for Voldemort, and that Harry and the Weasley family are under a huge threat from people like the Malfoys. Of course it's more emotional than if it was just about the Griffindor/Slytherin rivalry and a few "your mum"-insults.Ā
H
2026-03-02 07:59:25 +0000 UTCHey Veggie ā Iāve been away after losing a close family member shortly before Christmas, but Iām back now! Chapter 22: I loved seeing how worried the twins were about their dad. Chapter 23: Absolutely heartbreaking. How did you feel when Lockhart returned?
Steven
2026-03-02 07:12:28 +0000 UTCIk vind je Nederlandse facts echt geweldig man. Daarmee was je me voor. Geniaal idee. Wat zijn ze toch geweldig vertaal naar het Nederlands. Ik moest dus ook enorm lachen toen ik laatst leerde dat de Uranus joke zo slecht was vertaald naar andere talen. "Mag ik ook je hemelse lichaam zien" was ook weer een hele sterke. Heb je de luisterboeken met Jan Meng ook geluisterd?
Bram
2026-03-02 00:29:19 +0000 UTCHi Veggie, I have to admit I was stunned that you combined these two chapters. Especially these. There is so much to say about them! Chapter 22: I always laugh at the chaos among the portraits when Phineas Nigellus is ātoo tiredā to help. I also find it quite unprofessional of Dumbledore to use that smoking device in front of Harry and not explain anything. I love Sirius in this chapter. I donāt think he has ever been more rational. Heās blunt, yes, but clear with the kids who are understandably worried about their father. His energy in the full house is contagious. āSirius was still in his day clothes.ā Do wizards normally wear evening clothes at home? Ever since you once mentioned Tonksā voice, Iāve been waiting for you to hear the receptionist at St. Mungoās. š Iām also sometimes surprised how carelessly adult wizards use magic. They solve everything with it, even simple tasks but they don't seem to learn these in school. Arthur is lying in a hospital bed, yet he casually conjures six chairs with a wave of his wand. It also seems incredibly easy to create a Portkey. Dumbledore just says āPortusā and itās done. If itās that simple, why does travel become such a complicated issue later in the series? I'm trying to keep it short and even now I haven't said all I wanted about Chapter 22. I'll just quickly say this about chapter 23. I love Harryās loyalty here. He never tells anyone about Nevilleās parents. Not even Ron or Hermione. That says a lot about his character.
Bram
2026-03-02 00:22:29 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! Harry: doesn't want to stay at Grimmauld Place out of fear of hurting his friends Harry: doesn't want to go back to Hogwarts out of fear of hurting his classmates Also Harry: is perfectly fine with returning to Privet Drive. That's not being noble, that's called revenge lol. Dutch fun fact of the month: Gilderoy Lockhart is called Gladianus Smalhart. Smalhart could be translated back to narrowheart. Gladianus closely resembles the Dutch word gladjanus, which is someone who is slick and can't be trusted. A pretty accurate name! See you next time!
Dobby Delfstoffer
2026-03-01 22:42:37 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! I've been so excited for you to get to these chapters for such a long time!Definitely some of my top chapters that I wish had been included in the movies. I will do my best to keep it no too long. -On top of all of the St. Mungo's stuff which I'm sure will be talked about a lot, we get so much more of an in depth understanding of Harry with all of his internal dialogue, and are able to see how he's in this self-perpetuating cycle of depression, anxiety, self doubt, and as a result self isolation from the people who could potentially help. So much more relatable than movie Harry. -We also get a greater understanding of both Ginny and Neville. The scene with Neville at St. Mungo's is so heartbreaking and I was so disappointed that they really didn't show his origin story in the movies other than glossing over it very briefly. -Ginny talking about her experience with being possessed by Voldemort as an example always makes me wonder how many different ways someone could experience being possessed. -Where do you think Kreacher is?
Emory
2026-03-01 21:59:36 +0000 UTCHey Woozles Hooman! I don't really have much to add that hasn't been said yet. But yeah, these 2 chapter are so freaking good!!! I love how St Mungo is described, and before the 5th movie came out I really looked forward seeing it come to life... I mean, I understand why they didn't add it into the movie, but it would have been magnificent! Even just the waiting room would have had so much space for fun little visual gags. "God rest ye merry Hippogriffs" always gives me the giggles. Do you think it's an official wizard carol, or did Sirius change the lyrics to amuze himself? As always, please give my love to the Noodle ;)
PumpkinSparks
2026-03-01 09:14:53 +0000 UTCHola Veggie and Woozle! I hope you're both doing well! I haven't gotten a chance to comment in a while although I always watch/listen to book club! Chapter 22 It's actually crazy how much surveillance power the Headmaster of what would be a middle to high school has in the wizarding world! Harry and Ron just so "happen to be" staying in the room with Phineas Nigelus Black's portrait. Dilys Derwent watches Harry and the Weasleys check in to St. Mungo's, and then slides out of the frame to presumably report back. Back in Prisoner of Azkaban, Florian Fortescue kept giving Harry free ice cream sundaes while he was staying at the Leaky Cauldron; do you think he might have a portrait of his ancestor Dexter Fortescue (who was a Headmaster of Hogwarts) at his ice cream parlor? Do you think the Ministers of Magic at have a bunch of portraits of former Minsters in their office to spy for them too? š This is a side note, but I also found it really funny that the Healer on duty in the Dai Llewellyn Ward was called Hippocrates, like the Greek physician we call the "father of medicine", and for whom the Hippocratic oath that doctor's take was named. Also, apparently, Dai Llewellyn was a quidditch player that got eaten by a chimaera so I suppose that is a fitting name for the Serious Bites ward! š Chapter 23 I know everyone else will touch on a lot between Lockhart and the Longbottoms. I'll just say, it's nice that Gilderoy has a dressing gown in his favorite color, lilac LOL.
itz_Cherise
2026-03-01 05:38:59 +0000 UTCHi Veggie and Woozle! Busy month, so I didn't get to read all the comments before. But the evaluation went well, thanks for the good wishes! š I'll say the argument between Sirius and the kids is heavy.. I understand Sirius's perspective of caring about the Order and how things look, but I also understand worried children wanting to see their father who is in a very bad condition. Sirius seems kind of cold both in this scene, and also when talking to Harry, despite the movie having that wonderful scene between the two of them. I love that scene, but it's very different. The Neville stuff is heartbreaking, but I suspect you talked a lot about it by now.
RƩka KovƔcs
2026-02-28 22:30:28 +0000 UTCYes, I remember him saying that too, and I also immediately thought of these chapters and it was hard not to spoil it š
RƩka KovƔcs
2026-02-28 22:02:52 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! Long time no comment! I really love how each Weasley child reacts so distinctly to Molly's Arthur update. Especially that Fred and George are shown to react differently. Fred puts his hands over his face, seemingly shutting himself off due to overwhelm or wanting to react privately. George gets up to hug Molly with Ginny, showing that they prefer to react outwardly and recover with family. Ron, of course, laughs it off. We don't often get these scenes (or much at all in the films) showing how the Weasley children and the twins have different personalities so it's nice to see! I love Ginny curling up like a cat and Fred + Ron + Harry standing up when Molly enters.
rreowenn
2026-02-28 19:18:08 +0000 UTCHi Woozle and Veggie! Itās been a minute since I wrote anything for the book club, but no worries - I had a good time š I left my old toxic job, found a new one and traveled for 2 months between them, visiting 9 countries in the meantime. These chapters are great in a sad way. In chapter 21 I feel so bad for all the Weasley kids. I also think their worry (especially the twins) is a great testament of Arthur being a great dad. Even with him having 7 kids and a demanding job, they all have such strong and feisty affection for him. But I am a little disappointed in Fred and George, who immediately started interrogating him about the Order once they know he is out of danger. I wonder where is St. Mungoās is located in London? I assume somewhere near Oxford street. Harry is being such a drama queen especially in chapter 22. Itās sad, that he immediately thinks his friends want nothing to do with him anymore. This made me think of my own tendency, probably others can relate - itās really hard to believe that friends actually care about me, thereās always a dash of a feeling that they stick around out of habit or convenience and once something changes they will distance themselves. Itās a self-confidence thing, and Harry in this book overall is very confused and unsure about himself and his feelings, so this makes sense. Finally, Ronās lack of tact with Neville made me cringe so hard. Have a lovely spring! The sun is shining and everything starts to bloom here in Bucks already!
Kate Bogd
2026-02-28 15:06:59 +0000 UTCOoftypoof Veggie and Woozle! I love Ginny calling Harry stupid for not talking to her about the possession thing š¤£ In some ways it feels like the book had forgotten about it, so we get to share Harryās shock when he remembers. I appreciate that Arthur really thinks muggles might have medical techniques as valid as their own, but they were doomed by not understanding muggle medicine š¤£ You would never try to stitch up a wound that was actively bleeding like that, youāve got to stop that first or youāll just end up in a worse situation. It feels very strange to me that the people in the Long Term Residents Ward donāt get actual rooms? This is their permanent home, they should have their own space with room for possessions and at least some level of privacy, not to mention the ability to separate patients when necessary. I love everything about this moment with Neville. Nevilleās feelings are so understandable and realistic, Harryās sympathy is so tangible, and at the same time I canāt help agreeing with his Grandmother (mostly). Itās tragic that Neville canāt be proud of his parents without the fear of being mocked, and itās tragic that she canāt talk about his parentās greatness without belittling Neville.
Ashley Evers
2026-02-27 21:38:45 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! I remember that in one of the previous book club you lamented the fact we'll never see St. Mungo's after it was mentioned so many times. I was so confused until I remembered the movies cut out all of these scenes. Can't believe they actually did that, especially Neville's scene. Arthur trying out stitches - while it didn't work this time, it's nice to see wizards being more open to muggle ideas like that.
Khely
2026-02-27 14:45:21 +0000 UTCChapter 22 * What do you make of Dumbledores infuriatingly cryptic behaviour? Chapter 23 * This is the one I was most excited for you to read. Itās such a shame it was cut from the movie. I really love Neville as a character and would have loved to see his backstory. * Donāt you love how sassy Ginny is? She really comes into her own in this book. * The way Sirius talks about Kreacher is heartbreaking * Bet you didnāt think youād be seeing Lockhart again lol
CJ Haaay
2026-02-26 10:30:06 +0000 UTCI'm wondering if your "in essence, divided" speculation is too spoilery?
Me Here
2026-02-25 13:34:39 +0000 UTCHi veggie! I found it so interesting to see just how messed harry got from being the snake, it seems so much more intense than the movie could convey. I absolutely love neville saving the wrapper from his mom but feel so bad for him having his classmates see him visiting them when its clear he wasnt ready to share this with them.
Cari Ann
2026-02-25 05:23:58 +0000 UTCBuffer for spoiler-y comments!
SavageKim
2026-02-23 18:29:03 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! I never really connected with Harry's angst, as I read these as an adult. I did think Phineas had some good points about big teenage feelings though! Ginny's "lucky you" hits so hard the first time. It reminds Harry (and we readers) that we don't get to feel other's experiences as deeply as we do his. In fact that scene, (and Neville's) remind us that while Harry might be the main character and definitely has horrible stuff happen to him... he's not the only character that bad stuff has happened to. There was a war last time (and another's brewing). Ron's description of doctors, and Molly's reaction to stitches are both hilarious because they're both true, just very crude descriptions of what actually happens!
SavageKim
2026-02-23 18:28:31 +0000 UTCI donāt want to repeat anything that others have already said so just want to say this. For someone that has worked as a receptionist for many years I wish I could talk to some people the way that the receptionist at St Mungos does. Sheās absolutely hilarious.
SnjĆ³friĆ°ur (Snow)
2026-02-22 14:23:24 +0000 UTCHarry needs to trust adults more, but I can see why he doesn't. Anytime he asked questions or admitted anything growing up with the Dursleys he will have been punished with the cupboard and most likely a beating/starving so it is good he trusts anyone at all. St Mungos is my fav chapter this book I think. Lockheart and Nevilles parents showing up was a surprise. So sad for Neville especially when his mam gives him the empty wrapper as a way of showing her love. Lockheart saying he doesn't think he could have done what the books say he did is hilarious. Percy sending the jumper back is horrid. Know you love him, I just can't in this book. Lol to the house elf heads decorations of hats and beards for Christmas. Dark but funny. Hey to Woozle hope you're both well.
Brannas86
2026-02-22 12:01:10 +0000 UTC"Daddy, My daddy" I bet you didn't expect the empty picture to be important to the story in this way. I think Phineas spot on calling out harry, though Ginny and Hermione were a bit more tactful. Well that's what you get when you eaves drop on private conversations, you might not like what you hear. There's so much in these chapters that are important yet is barley touched on in the film and the chapters themselves go out of their way to hide it. Percy sending back his jumper and not contacting the family is pretty brutal. But let's face it the real reason we've all been waiting for these chapters are Lockhart and Neville's parents, bet that came out of the blue for you, what with the juxtaposition of the comedy of Lockhart and the tragedy of the fate of Neville's parents. The person who chose to leave this out of the film deserves an unforgivable curse cast on them.
Simon audsley
2026-02-21 13:58:02 +0000 UTCChildren in the UK usually get Christmas Stockings with small gifts in, Terry's Chocolate Oranges, toothpaste, underwear, socks and knick-knacks etc. And they get their main presents under the Christmas tree.
S1lm4r1l
2026-02-15 20:51:59 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! Long time no see! I think my last comment was on chapters 9 & 10... OOF! Anyway, I only have 2 thoughts on these chapters: - really like Ginny in this book (and even more in the next); her explaining how possession works was a very important character moment in my opinion, and I lovve how she doesn't walk on eggshells around Harry and is very blunt with him as opposed to pretty much everyone else... - I wish we had the St. Mungo's scenes in the movie, instead of just a short conversation with Neville (and Neville keeping the candy wrappers is also a very important character detail)
Gothic Llama
2026-02-13 18:48:34 +0000 UTCHello Vegemite & Wu Zi Mu! I fought my inner demons to keep this under 200 words. I know this book club will push the 6 hour limit. Ch: 22 "And he and Sirius looked at each other every so often, intruders upon the family grief, waiting...waiting..." This chapter makes me anxious in a sort of primal way. To this day I still can't tell whether Fred and George are actually mad/suspicious of Harry or if Harry is just imagining it. We learn so much and yet so little about Dumbledore in this chapter. Using Fawkes as a messenger? Brilliant. Using the portraits of Headmasters to relay messages? Ingenious. But in essence divided? Huh? Ch: 23 "Neville looked around at the others, his expression defiant, as though daring them to laugh, but Harry did not think he'd ever found anything less funny in his life." This is maybe my favorite quote in the entire series. It says so much about Neville and Harry without either character saying a word. Throw in Ginny explaining to Harry what being possessed feels like and muggle stiches and this is easily a top 3 chapter that wasn't in the movies.
jolt45
2026-02-13 03:35:09 +0000 UTCHi Woozle and Veggie! I love the moment when Dumbledore and Harry finally made eye contact and Harry's extreme and rather disturbing reaction to it because it gives more layers to their interaction, or the lack of it. And it's crazy how one moment we were being treated to an amusing unhinged Lockhart scene, then the next we were witnessing one of the saddest and most heartbreaking moments in the series.
Maddie
2026-02-10 14:44:24 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! Lots of stuff happening in this two chapters. Did you ever imagine that Lockhard would show up again? Ginny is also awesome here, confronting Harry. Harry thinks so much about himself, that he tends to forget how others might feel. Also seen here in his thoughts, thinking about to protect everyone else from himself.
Florian Krause
2026-02-10 11:33:32 +0000 UTCI think this is a very interesting comment, and I really don't want to be rude, but I think you should try to shorten it. It's more than double the length of most comments, and Veggie has asked for us to try to do avoid long comments, so I think we need to accept that we can't include everything we want to say ALL the time (or make an effort of trying to explain the same thing in fewer words.
H
2026-02-09 22:21:24 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! As I said Iāll have a lot to talk about Ginny, my favorite character! How sheās able to pull Harry out of his spiral, so much that heās lost for words... She's able to reach him in a way none of his other peers can (!!!), and it's also the first time Harry (and maybe Ginny too) realizes the connection they share regarding Voldemort. (!!!!!) Now what about the "I forgot"? Does it show Harry doesn't think much about her? I think not. Ever since the Chamber, I believe Ginny has felt extremely defined by her experience there, and hated that about herself. Certainly, Molly coddled (hehe) her for years after (Not faulting Molly, of course). Even when letting everyone else listen to the Order meeting, she still sent Ginny up. Then, ever since hearing of her brotherās adventures with Harry *before* her first year, I believe Ginnyās desperately wanted to be a part. But every time the trio want to talk about important stuff, Ron tells her to scram. (Happened several times.) Ginny surely feels this is all connected and unjustly blames herself for being so ābehindā, (I relate a lot with this) because of (in her view) her āweaknessā in letting Tom control her. Ginny thinks her family in some ways only sees Tom's marks in her. It's why she's so fiercely independent this book, to prove herself as her own person. Yet Harry doesnāt see her like that. He thinks of the fun times with her in Grimmauld Place last summer, not her possession. He forgets in the moment. And I believe thatās incredibly important for her. (Yes, Harry+Ginny is my favorite ship) Thank you and sorry for the length again aaaaaaa!
Dodolulupepe
2026-02-09 04:52:40 +0000 UTCSorry Veggie. Canāt take a dig at the Seahawks in front of a Seattleite. Hope you and Woozle had a great February! Iāve been waiting for these chapters for a long time. As a nurse, all of the St. Mungoās stuff fascinates me! Iād definitely be a healer, or whatever the nurse equivalent is. Although it was very short, the scene with Neville and his parents has stuck so prominently in my brain. Itās beautiful and gut-wrenching all at the same time. And now we see where Nevilleās lack of confidence stems. His grandmother clearly loves him, but does nothing to help encourage him. I love seeing Sirius showing more responsibility. He makes sense why the kids arenāt allowed in the Order. Iād also really love to hear him singing the full version of God Rest Ye Merry Hippogriffs. Random question, in England, do you all get your gifts at the foot of your bed on Christmas and not under the Christmas tree? I could go on forever, but I really tried to keep it short. Until next time! āI didnāt learn joined-up writing for nothing!ā
itsanursething
2026-02-08 20:36:01 +0000 UTCEvery point you hit was one I wanted to talk about too! There's SO much good stuff in these chapters! Harry needs to stop being so stubborn and talk to people! The more he keeps inside, the more he struggles and the more things get complicated. I swear, if he just opened up a little and told the adults half of the stuff he thought about, the books would be a lot shorter. lol
itsanursething
2026-02-08 20:00:31 +0000 UTCHello Veggie and Woozle! It's been a while since I've commented in the book club - it's been a weird six months for me mentally. I also rebound 15 books as Christmas gifts which took a few months to do. But these chapters being next really kick started me to get back into it because "Christmas on the Closed Ward" is one of the absolute favourites. Chapter 22: - Poor Harry being so scared of himself, but I'm glad his friends were able to make him feel better. I especially love that Ginny is so blunt with him because I think Harry needs that a lot of the time, especially with how often people lie to him or even just try and downplay situations to not upset him, which usually ends up upsetting him more. Chapter 23!! - I love that Lupin went over to talk to the werewolf who was alone for Christmas! - My favourite scene: Neville and his parents. As someone who's family has a history of Alzheimers and dementia this always really resonated with me. I have such a close relationship with my mom and knowing that one day she may not recognize me terrifies me so this scene is both devastating and beautiful. Alice doesn't speak and likely doesn't really understand what's going on but there's a part of her that recognizes her son and just wants to give him something to show she loves him. I'm really going to try to keep commenting on these in future because they bring me joy and one can never have too much joy! Greetings from me and Walter in Canada!
Alexandra
2026-02-08 19:13:22 +0000 UTCHello Veggie and Woozle! I gave you a scare with my last comment there about Arthur Weasley, genuinely did not mean that and realized when you read it out loud how it sounded, sorry! :D Thankfully he's still alive thanks to muggle medical science, although Molly Weasley would disagree with me on that. /s Ch22 Respect to Ron for being a good friend and realizing how traumatizing the situation was when Harry changed how he saw the attack when telling the others at Grimmauld Place. How did you find the situation with Sirius going against Fred, George and Ginny when logical thinking had to go before emotions? I don't imply that Sirius would not care for Arthur nor that the Weasley kids emotions should be dismissed but they are still kids/teenagers in the situation. Ch23 Despite more serious discussions and topics I enjoy the Christmas-theme in the first half of this chapter. Did you find the Christmas-themes in-between the visits to St Mungos out of place or was it a needed breather in these serious chapters? "...but Harry did not think he'd ever found anything less funny in his life." - That sums up the ending quite well. Honourable mention - Hermione giving them homework planners as gifts :D
Keary Smith
2026-02-08 13:51:54 +0000 UTCI personally prefer fantasy remaining somehow close to reality. It's more realistic that way, that they don't live with or close to their son. I'm not really sure what magic could even do for them if it cannot make them well again. I had more than one family member who lost their faculties and honestely having them close was exhausting and scary, and with those that were in that state when I was a child, I am happy that family put them in 24/7 care because I would have had even more trauma from them being there with me too much. I already found it extremly upsetting to even visit. It was unsettling, and it is a burden in the sense of 'a heavy load'.
Jo Winters
2026-02-08 10:16:41 +0000 UTCSpoiler buffer hopefully
Jo Winters
2026-02-08 10:07:02 +0000 UTCHello Veggie! Chapter 22 What do you think Dumbledore is talking about when he says 'in essence divided'? Nagini and Voldemort would be my theory, because he knows Harry is where Voldy's mind is. I thought maybe grim satisfaction is related to him guessing she is a Horcrux? Now I can say it. I hate this scene from the movie. Dumbledore sending terrified, sweating Harry to Occlumency with Snape, immediately? Dumbledore would never be this irresponsible and cruel. I also think the scene when he looks Harry in the eyes in the book is way stronger, way scarier and meaningful than the movie where Harry shouts at Dumbledore. Chapter 23 Now that you visited St. Mungo's, where is it on the list of your favourite places in the Wizarding World? I feel such affection for Neville in that scene. It's completely heartbreaking.
Jo Winters
2026-02-08 10:02:40 +0000 UTCPercy legit turned into a brat. Legit hated him. Lol.
Stephen Hert
2026-02-07 21:02:36 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! I've been waiting for these chapters. I knew you would find them so interesting! Some short thoughts: It's very eerie that Umbridge immediately knows that the Weasleys are out of bed. It's also shocking to hear that she didn't want them to be able to visit their father in the hospital! Even for her, that's low. It's nice to see happy Sirius! He must be overjoyed to have company for Christmas. I also love that we have a Christmas carol called "God Rest Ye, Merry Hippogriffs". What do you think of Percy returning his Christmas gift and not visiting his father in the hospital? The portraits of the headmasters are so useful! What do you think of them being able to visit other paintings in other parts of the world? Also, did you ever think we'd get resolution to the regurgitating toilet mystery? A very good call back in my opinion.
Maria
2026-02-07 19:06:19 +0000 UTCI always assumed they weren't able to get Kenneth Branagh available for such a short scene because that was how they managed to wind up in the ward by accident. I know many people were very disappointed that scene got left out. It wouldn't have taken long either. I hate this movie more than all but Deathly Hallows part 2
Gugurupurasu Daikirai
2026-02-07 05:25:29 +0000 UTCWill never forgive the films for skipping this. We learn a bit more about Neville and how he gets treated. Then we have the return of Lockhart! It's interesting to see the lasting effects of the memory charm. Also, Ginny and Harry talking, it's nice we get to see more of Ginny being less shy with Harry.
Kunzite Blossom
2026-02-06 02:41:55 +0000 UTCHi Veg and Wooz, It was a big deal when it was announced Phineas Black would be the headmaster in Hogwarts Legacy, some HP content creators made videos explaining him for the people who had only seen the movies and were curious why the book readers were excited. Chapters ago I pointed out the empty portrait frame Harry heard laughter from in Grimmauld Place because playing Legacy before reading actually makes that a crazy payoff but still almost impossible to guess. What do think of the book version of Phineas so far? Fudge has been a bellend in this book and last but considering Dumbledore has a wall with potential spies all over it does help me understand why he is so paranoid about Dumbledore. Where do you think Arthur was attacked that a portrait of a former Hogwarts headmaster would be able to get to him so quickly? Also isn't it kind of messed up Dumbledore uses an ancestor from the family he hates to communicate with Sirius and spy on Harry? The movie missed out on so many potential character moments in these chapters. Extended Christmas with Sirius, the Longbottoms, Arthur trying stitches, more Bill, Tonks and Mad Eye, Ginny, an update on Lockhart, Percy returning his jumper, St. Mungo's itself, Kreacher's nest & just what was he up to? And I'm almost surely forgetting something
Gugurupurasu Daikirai
2026-02-06 00:10:37 +0000 UTCTwo tiny observations among the big scenes: I feel so sorry for Hermione's parents! They hardly ever see their daughter anymore. The "stitches" bit is funny but also a sober reminder of how much genuinely helpful Muggle technology doesn't exist in the wizarding world. When I started reading this series at 11, the magic world seemed like a paradise, but by 14 (the age I read Order of the Phoenix), I was a LOT more ambivalent. It's hard to express what it was like to grow up as these books were coming out: Harry, the narrative, and the audience all slowly maturing together. Hope you're feeling better! š
Margarita Pizza
2026-02-05 21:42:21 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! Short comment to keep it under six hours. I canāt help but feel sorry for Lockhart, even though he was menace. And Nevilleās scene is heartbreaking, I imagine he has a collection of sweet wrappers and other stuff at home from his parents. P.S. Your favourite won the Royal Rumble!
Andrew K
2026-02-05 16:18:08 +0000 UTCI just looked it up and apparently HIPAA started in 1996.
Badger Kat
2026-02-05 15:48:13 +0000 UTCWFFTITWFF Veggie! There are so many things that didnt make the cut in these chapters. Who were you more surprised to meet: Lockhart or Neville's parents?š Something that was pointed out on another podcast I listen to: St. Mungo's really has an issue with patient confidentiality. Both the witch at the reception desk and the healer at Lockhart's ward are telling us all kind of things we're not supposed to know about multiple patients.šš Also: Mrs. Weasley's reaction to learning how stitches work will never not be hilarious to me!š
Diego ZenhƤusern
2026-02-05 15:08:33 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! I've been really looking forward to hearing what you think of meeting the longbottoms. That bubblegum wrapper just destroys me, I love Neville so much. I wish there were better depictions of magic being used to improve quality of life for people with additional challenges - I don't even know Star Trek well but they seem to have really thought about showing supporting disabilities instead of eradicating/hiding them away and I think it's genuinely valuable in reducing stigma against people with disabilities as morally weak or burdens. Even with magic Alice and Frank can't live near their son?! I also agree with you that it's wild they still get wet and cold in the snow.
Florrie
2026-02-05 13:27:30 +0000 UTCWell well here we are Christmas at the closed ward. Iāll never understand not putting this in the movie in some sort of capacity. Now that Iām a little older I guess not wanting to include Nevilleās parents might have been a choice because the movie was already pretty grim? Maybe it was just too much Were you surprised that Lockhart made another appearance?
Howiedoing
2026-02-05 04:17:38 +0000 UTCThe conversation with Ginny is one of my favorites because she would have been perfectly within her right to take offense to Harry forgetting that she was possessed by Voldemort, but instead she makes a joke about the fact that it slipped his mind. āLucky you.ā It's a dark joke but it is still a joke. Ginny also just has a way of talking to Harry that feels non-judgmental but is still blunt. She knows what he is dealing with but also isn't afraid to point out how stupid he is for not talking with her about it sooner. As much as I like the scene with Sirius in the movie. It is very clichĆ© and I don't think it was worth it. Unfortunately this won't be the last time I say that about the movies and how much they screw over Ginny as a character and replaced great book content with something clichĆ©.
Josh Z
2026-02-04 23:06:36 +0000 UTCHi Veggie, Hermione abandoning her parents once again. As a mom of teenagers, I hate that. Neville's grandmother insulting him to his face, after just complementing the all the others, just makes this moment worse. This series is big on a mother's love, and Alice shows hers in the only way she can.
Esmeralda Joy
2026-02-04 21:29:54 +0000 UTCYou don't need to keep your comment THAT short! XD
VEGGIE GAMER
2026-02-04 20:05:43 +0000 UTCEdited to make longer :) Greetings, Chapter ā 22 - Dumbledore has quite the intelligence network. - This is why you cannot let minors in the order. - Why do the āHeroesā in stories always take blame for things that are not there doing? - The guy with the shoes confusion is understandable it could have been 1st floor as the shoes are an artifact. Chapter ā 23 - But Harry is impertinent. He feels he has the right to know things on the flimsiest of reasons. - Harry wanted to join the order which is a paramilitary organization, but he will not take orders and thinks he NEEDS to know everything. Harry āI want to join your army, but only if I get to be a general.ā - The exchange about the stitches is possibly my favorite of the whole series. - All the Navel stuff! P.S. Woozle told me she wants more walks.
Garfnob
2026-02-04 20:04:50 +0000 UTCSpoilero Protecto
S1lm4r1l
2026-02-04 19:23:17 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! I think seeing Neville's family in this chapter is one of the most important parts that I was very sad they left out of the films. If you just watch the films, you would think his parents have died. What do you think about them leaving it out of the film?
Marianne
2026-02-04 19:13:44 +0000 UTChello veggie and woozle! iāve skimmed the comments below and basically everything i wanted to talk about has already been touched on. i didnāt want to miss another book club though! in a previous book club i mentioned ānevilleās situationā being āworseā than harryās and this is the scene that i was thinking of when i said that. i wasnāt necessarily trying to compare them on a scale and say one is worse than the other, but harry has the closure of knowing his parents are gone. meanwhile neville still has to live with this pain on a daily basis, knowing that even their death at this point wouldnāt bring him relief because there would be no closure or final conversation between them. one final bit that never made sense until one of my re-reads as an adult: ānaturally, but in essence divided?ā i know someone else already brought this up and iām sure youāll pick up on it during your discussion as well, but WOW.
Dani Phantom
2026-02-04 18:09:52 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! Bill is the Weasley's eldest child and is the first to see his mother's incoming fury at Mr Weasley's dabbling with Muggle medicine. Bill immediately indicates a desire for tea, giving himself an excuse to leave the room and protect his eardrums whilst everyone else is much slower on the uptake. Such an eldest child moment right there. You've criticised Harry in the past for occasionally not being a good friend, but he is a good friend to Neville. Not telling anyone about his secret is very loyal. *Might edit*
S1lm4r1l
2026-02-04 15:30:48 +0000 UTCHi Veggie! The new lore about what paintings can and cannot do is very interesting, I remember you having similar questions about what ghosts can do and where they can go. Also, Phineas Nigellus is not just a name on the Black family tree, he is an actual character! Do you think his personnality matches the way he was portrayed in Hogwarts Legacy? The discussion between Harry and Sirius is very different from the movie, Harry is worried about being possessed by Voldemort, not about being āāangry all the timeāā. And instead of having a heartfelt moment, Sirius basically just gives him a pat on the back and the equivalent of telling a stressed person āāwell have you tried not being stressed?āā. What did you think about it? Itās true that witches and wizards can usually fix ordinary injuries (like broken bones or cuts) pretty easily with magic, but they still need intensive care and longer treatment when the damage is done by magic, which explains the need for a hospital in the wizarding world.
Alias93
2026-02-04 14:28:19 +0000 UTCHey Veggie, it's been a while since I left a comment in the book club. It's often hard to share my thoughts that others haven't already explained better but I do want to share a couple of my thoughts since I really like these chapters (especially Chapter 23). When Harry looks like he's about to attack Dumbledore, do you think that was the snake or a bit of Harry's own anger or both? I love that it's Ginny who helps assure Harry that he's not possessed given her experience with the diary. Also, did you expect Lockhart to show up again?
John Phillips
2026-02-04 14:11:47 +0000 UTCHere's a zoology nitpick: Snake fangs can be venomous, but not poisonous! āļøš¤ There's a mistake in the Jim Dale audiobook. He uses the voice of Mrs. Black's portrait for Kreacher's line: "Back again, the blood traitor brats, is it true their father's dying?" Side-note, Dale's voice for the homework planner is delightfully obnoxious. š It's really unsettling how the snake dream has affected Harry, and I do feel for him! But he's also working himself into hysterics by thinking that he literally turned into a snake, especially when Fred and Moody already mentioned Nagini. š I think Harry's realization that he forgot about Ginny's trauma is supposed to hit the reader just as hard, as we've likely forgotten too. Which floor at Saint Mungo's sounds the most interesting?
Madikuma95
2026-02-04 14:04:02 +0000 UTCI think 90s muggles would just assume Tonks was into punkrock with that hairstyle!
Madikuma95
2026-02-04 13:44:39 +0000 UTCI guess Mrs. Norris told Filch, and Filch told Umbridge. š¤
Madikuma95
2026-02-04 13:40:41 +0000 UTCSPOILERUS BLOCKUS!
Jake M
2026-02-04 13:21:35 +0000 UTCS'mae Wezzie! I've tried to keep my comment to bare minimum, Sorry in advance. Chapter 22 This is a pivotal chapter, for reasons you might not expect. Any guesses? Dumbledore again makes a portkey just like that... I wonder how the Ministry expects to regulate them, if it's just a spell? Clearly they can't track them, or else they'd have known about the Triwizard Cup being one! Have to wonder who notified Umbitch! Does she have her own Weasley clock, or something? All the children pointing to "Out of Bed?" Chapter 23 If only Harry could just speak to Dumbledore, he could ask him questions instead of stewing on his own thoughts. Saying that, Ginny is amazing again in this chapter. Yet another strong scene of hers which they omit from the movies! We never hear about Harry browsing for presents... How does he buy them while stuck in Hogwarts/Grimmauld Place? Does he send Crookshanks to order them, like Sirius did? XD Hope you both have a wonderful month, look after yourselves!
Jake M
2026-02-04 13:14:31 +0000 UTCHi Veggie and Woozle! Iāve been waiting for this moment for over a year! Back in November 2024, when you were reading Book 4 and talking about Nevilleās parents, you said you wished they would visit St Mungoās someday ā maybe in a spin-off. God, it was so hard not to comment and accidentally spoil anything. That scene has always been one of the most heartbreaking moments in the entire series for me. As a Romione stan, I absolutely cherish another detail here: Ron ā who never has much money and usually gives Harry something like sweets or an old book ā gives Hermione perfume. A perfume. Itās such a small thing, but it shows that he finally acknowledges her as a girl. And then ā the moment Hermione finds out about Ronās father, she immediately changes her plans, leaves her parents, and runs straight to Ron to make sure he and his family are okay, and to be there for him. By the wayā¦ where is Kreacher? PS. I triple-checked. No russian words this time :)
Natasha
2026-02-04 13:12:36 +0000 UTCHi guys! Please make sure you read the 'IMPORTANT' section above before commenting. :)
VEGGIE GAMER
2026-02-04 13:12:32 +0000 UTCHey woozle! The portraits being able to see whatās going on in other places If they have the same personās portrait up is SO useful! Phineas nigellus black, recognise that name? You should, itās the headmaster during hogwarts legacy So glad molly and Sirius are getting on better now, wish it was better circumstances that made them stop fighting though Also really? Bright pink hair will blend in in London better than a bowler hat? Sure now it would but back in the 90ās? Probably not (but I was born mid 2000ās so not sure if Iām right) And they think these patients will blend into muggle London while travelling to the hospital? Cursed to dance and a kid with wings? Riiiiiiight Harry with Voldemortās eyes, thatās an image š¤£ you donāt wanna hurt anyone but run away to the dursleys? Fair I wouldnāt care if they got hurt either tbf Also I love how angst and emo harry is at the start of this chapter, like you do have friends you know? Why does kreacher love bellatwix so much Do you think Nevilleās mum was giving him sweet wrappers cus she thinks sheās giving the actual sweets? Also did you realise that OWLās are just the wizard version of GCSEās (5th year is the same as year 11) and NEWTS are the same as A levels, so thatās why some subjects are compulsory to take for OWLS but for NEWTS nothings compulsory and you can drop out after 5th year So sorry itās kinda long, I really tried to cut it down this time š just had way too much to say
Sunblooded
2026-02-04 13:11:55 +0000 UTCGreetings, Veggie and Woozle! Ch 22 - Having a sentient painting in your bedroom seems intrusive. But now we have an answer to the snickering frame and meet the Headmaster from Hogwarts Legacy. - I love the introduction to St. Mungoās, so much detail. But why is there a portrait of the inventor of the entrail-expelling curse? Is it a good thing? I have questions. - Bet you never thought weād get an answer to who was behind the regurgitating toilets from Ch 7. Ch 23 - Poor Harry, heās spiraling and itās heartbreaking and very realistic. Bless him, so worried heās a danger to everyone. Except the Dursleyās, doesnāt seem to care if he hurts them! - Ginny does an awesome job of metaphorically slapping some sense into Harry. - The whole Neville scene is so sad. Thank you so much for all the work you do for us!
Badger Kat
2026-02-04 13:10:28 +0000 UTCHi veggie, Loads to say about 22 but ill skip that for time. ive been waiting for chapter 23 to come around since chamber. I can imagine your joy when lockheart appears, and the heartbreak when neville does. I cant find the words to express how much the neville interaction breaks my heart. This quote always makes me cry: "Neville looked around at the others, as though daring them to laugh, but Harry did not think he'd ever found anything less funny in his life."
Alex
2026-02-04 13:08:04 +0000 UTC-What's up with Dumbledore's silver instrument? The green smoke forms a serpent's head, and when he says, āNaturally, naturally. But in essence, divided?ā it splits into two snakes. Any theories on what this means? On reread, it's one of the coolest moments in the series. -Fred & George wanting to see Arthur right away is heartbreaking, but I'm also proud of Sirius for holding his ground, especially after Fred's āeasy for you to say, being stuck hereā line, which clearly hit a nerve. -I feel awful for Harry when he believes he's been possessed by Voldemort. I love that GINNY reassures him! Her experience in CoS is finally brought up meaningfully. Ginny's had strong moments, but this where you truly see how important she is to the story (far beyond the nothing-burger movie version). -Itās devastating Alice doesn't recognize Neville or understand that the gum wrapper isn't a proper "gift", yet Neville appreciates it, because it's his only connection to his parents. Neville isn't ashamed of them, he just didn't want to share this part of his life, understandably. Harry, Ron & Hermione being forced to witness this (by accident) makes it even more powerful. This amazing scene shows the lasting damage caused by the Death Eaters and would have done wonders for Neville's character in the films...
Me Here
2026-02-04 13:05:53 +0000 UTC
