My eleven-year-old son hasn't been this enthralled by an author since he finished all the Roald Dahl books several years ago. And apparently he's not the only one. J.K. Rowling, who published her first novel two years ago and has since followed up with two more, has broken a variety of publishing records with her bestselling Harry Potter books. Whether read aloud or silently, whether enjoyed by kid, teen or adult, Harry Potter hits the mark! [Editor's Note: An updated version of this topic can be found here: Harry Potter]
Where does Joanne Rowling get her ideas? "I wish I knew. Sometimes they just come (like magic) and other times I have to sit and think for about a week before I manage to work out how something will happen. Where the idea for Harry Potter actually came from I really couldn't tell you. I was traveling on a train between Manchester and London and it just popped into my head." After the interview, scroll down for Harry Potter inspired writing activities.
Scholastic is Harry Potter's American publisher, and this official site is jam packed with goodies such as free screensavers (Windows and Macintosh) and Shockwave quiz games. You'll also find an interview with the author and two marvelous discussion guides (great for teachers and book club leaders.) My favorite click is the Reading Circle where you can answer some questions ("Who is your favorite character and why?") and share your responses on the bulletin board. If you are still not sure what all the Harry Potter fuss is about, try the free sample chapters — you'll find one from each of the first three books.
The following links are either new discoveries or sites that didn't make it into my newspaper column because of space constraints. Enjoy!
All Things Considered Rowling Interview (Audio Clip)Harry Potter Fans |
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