I love Harry Potter—I love the feelings it gives me and the personal connection I have to the franchise. But after reading a lot of other literature, I’m starting to realize that the plot is, at best, just okay. I honestly don’t understand how these became the most famous books of all time when I’ve read so many with objectively stronger storylines.

Throughout the series, we’re introduced to entire plot points that ultimately don’t matter. Take The Half-Blood Prince, for example—it’s so important that it’s literally the title of the book, yet the “big reveal” about Snape is neither surprising nor particularly relevant. It’s also painfully obvious.

Re-reading the series has also given me a new perspective on Dumbledore. He’s incredibly manipulative and, honestly, kind of self-destructive. A little honesty would have gone a long way. Forcing one of your most trusted allies to kill you—and then telling no one, ensuring he’s universally hated? Dick move.