"When was the last time you heard actual word-of-mouth praise for a Potter book, as opposed to publicity? Or read one yourself (parents are allowed)?"
Last time I hear actual word-of-mouth praise for a Potter book? I think it was yesterday... but I can't be sure... and it was actually my cousin and me talking about the books (both of us fans).
Read one myself? I'm Currently working on POA. Just re-read COS and PS. so