Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix facts for kids

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix is the fifth exciting book in the Harry Potter series. It was written by the famous author J.K. Rowling. This book came out on July 21, 2003. It tells the story of Harry's fifth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. In this book, the evil Lord Voldemort has returned, but most people do not believe Harry. Only Albus Dumbledore and a few others know the truth. A movie based on this book was also released in 2007.

The Return of Voldemort

This book starts with Harry having a tough summer. He is frustrated because almost no one believes that Lord Voldemort has come back. Harry feels very alone and isolated. One day, two Dementors, dark creatures that suck happiness, attack Harry and his cousin Dudley. Harry has to use magic to save them. Because he used magic outside of school, Harry faces a hearing at the Ministry of Magic. This is the government for the wizarding world.

The Order of the Phoenix

Harry is cleared at the hearing, thanks to Albus Dumbledore. He then learns about a secret group called the Order of the Phoenix. This group was formed by Dumbledore to fight against Voldemort and his followers. Harry's friends, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, are already aware of the Order. They are staying at the Order's secret headquarters, which is Sirius Black's old family home.

Life at Hogwarts

When Harry returns to Hogwarts, things are different. The Ministry of Magic does not believe Voldemort is back. They send a new teacher, Dolores Umbridge, to Hogwarts. She is a very strict and unfair teacher. Umbridge tries to control everything and everyone at the school. She refuses to teach students how to defend themselves against dark magic.

Dumbledore's Army

Because Umbridge won't teach them proper defense, Harry, Ron, and Hermione decide to take action. They form a secret group called Dumbledore's Army (D.A.). In this group, Harry teaches his friends and other students how to perform defensive spells. They meet in a secret room called the Room of Requirement. This group helps many students learn important magic and feel more prepared.

Harry's Visions

Throughout the year, Harry starts having strange dreams and visions. He sees things from Voldemort's point of view. This connection between Harry and Voldemort is dangerous. Harry also learns about a prophecy concerning himself and Voldemort. This prophecy says that neither can live while the other survives.

Battle at the Ministry of Magic

Near the end of the school year, Harry has a terrible vision. He sees his godfather, Sirius Black, being tortured by Voldemort at the Ministry of Magic. Harry, Ron, Hermione, and their friends Luna Lovegood, Neville Longbottom, and Ginny Weasley rush to the Ministry. They want to save Sirius.

The Department of Mysteries

When they arrive, they find themselves in the Department of Mysteries. This place holds many secrets, including the prophecy about Harry and Voldemort. They realize that Voldemort tricked Harry with the vision. Sirius is not there. Instead, they are ambushed by Voldemort's followers, the Death Eaters.

Sirius's Fate

A fierce battle breaks out between the students and the Death Eaters. The members of the Order of the Phoenix soon arrive to help. During the fight, Harry's godfather, Sirius Black, is tragically killed by Bellatrix Lestrange, a dangerous Death Eater. Harry is heartbroken and filled with anger.

Voldemort's Appearance

Voldemort himself appears at the Ministry. He tries to get the prophecy from Harry. Albus Dumbledore arrives just in time to protect Harry. Dumbledore and Voldemort have a powerful duel. During this fight, other wizards from the Ministry see Voldemort. This proves to everyone that Harry was telling the truth all along.

The Prophecy Revealed

After the battle, Harry returns to Hogwarts. Dumbledore explains everything to Harry about the prophecy. He tells Harry why Voldemort tried to kill him as a baby. Dumbledore also explains the deep connection between Harry and Voldemort. This connection is why Harry can sometimes see into Voldemort's mind. Harry realizes that he must face Voldemort one day.

Themes in the Book

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix explores several important ideas. It shows the importance of friendship and loyalty. Harry's friends stand by him even when others doubt him. The book also deals with themes of authority and rebellion. The students form Dumbledore's Army because they feel the Ministry of Magic and Umbridge are not doing their job. It also highlights the idea of hope and perseverance, even in dark times.

• Extended plot wikibook