I haven’t finished the whole book, but I did, like Adrienne, read the end first. I won’t spoil it for anyone who hasn’t finished yet, but may I just say…
Rock on, Mrs. Weasley, rock on!
Updated 7/30/07
I finished the book this weekend and I have to say it was simply magnificent. I honestly can’t remember the last time I went back and re-read parts of a book just because they were so incredible. The Battle of Hogwarts got me as choked up and emotional as the Battle of Helms Deep in Lord of the Rings. The cohesiveness of the story, from The Sorcerer’s Stone to The Deathly Hallows, is really amazing. What I kept thinking as I read was that Rowling has succeeded in taking the bones of folktales, adding flesh and blood, and telling an epic tale. The theme of choices and their consequences runs through all seven books like a red thread, culminating with Harry’s final and most important choice — to live for himself or die for others. Christian mythologists should have some fun with this one.
I know there are people out there with quibbles, and I had a few of my own, but so what? As pompous as this sounds, I believe we have witnessed the creation of a masterpiece of children’s literature.
It's All About the Book 
I kept going back and re-reading from Snape’s memories on. I have to confess, though, I didn’t really like the epilogue. Too unemotional and matter-of-fact, except for Ron learning how to drive, Muggle-style.
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Seriously, that was one of my favorite parts. I had to read that scene repeatedly because it was so awesome. The whole book was, as far as I’m concerned. I’ve talked to a lot of people who have various gripes, but I didn’t have any problems at all. My questions were answered. Everything that happened made sense to me but was still somewhat surprising (and it’s not like I haven’t put quality time into considering what might happen, because I have).
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