I think the reason Order of the Phoenix ranks so high for me is because even though Goblet introduced us to the broader magical community, Order of the Phoenix solidified the full cast of characters who would become Harry's support system. There's something wholesome about the Christmas holiday at Grimmauld Place. Rowling did not have to give this brief respite time in the book, but it highlighted a certain element of the story that somehow made it more ... real for me, a little more 3 dimensional?

Also, even though Harry had experienced death before, the passing of Sirius made it more poignant. The scene in Dumbledore's study after the attack in the ministry was gut-wrenching.

I wonder if our ranks change as we get older and reread the series.

Also, I wonder if listening to the books as audio books has any bearing on our preference?

Regardless, bravo. You should get on Medium for not featuring your article in my feed a lot sooner. Definitely subscribing to your future writing.