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The New York Times reports today that JK Rowling will be in New York City this August for a charity book reading. Jo will be at Radio City Music Hall in company of authors Stephen King and John Irving. King explained why he had invited our favorite author:
> "I loved the stuff that she does, and I thought if we had her, we could actually make a huge amount of money for charities," Mr. King said in an interview. "I thought that we could actually fill a really, really large venue."
On receiving the invitation, Jo had no problem joining the effort:
> "Stephen pretended to be in suspense about my answer, but frankly, this was easily one of the most enticing propositions ever put to me in an envelope."
Money raised through tickets (ranging from $12.50 - $100) will be donated to Doctors Without Borders and the Haven Foundation, which benefits "artists who suffered from illness or accidents." There will also be family packages costing $1,000 that include four orchestra seats and a signed book from each author.
NOTE: At this time we do not have any further ticket information, so please do not e-mail us asking. Once we find out more information, we will post it here!
Thanks to Sarah for the tip!
Posted by
05-09-2006
at 8:36 PM
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JK Rowling, Stephen King and John Irving will be holding a press conference on August 1st in New York City, a few hours prior to the first benefit performance of their charity reading event. The conference will take place on August 1st at 10 AM at Radio City Music Hall.
Posted by
05-16-2006
at 07:23 AM
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A survey reported by CBBC Newsround this morning asked 3,000 people who they would preserve for the future. English football (known as soccer in the US) player Wayne Rooney was the top person to be preserved, while JK Rowling was seventh on the list.
Thanks to Sarah and Ryan for the tip!
Posted by
06-18-2006
at 12:03 AM
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Today, our favorite author and her brainchild Harry Potter turn 41 and 26 respectively. Please join us in wishing them the very best of birthdays!
Posted by
07-30-2006
at 10:51 PM
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MSN has now posted a complete video from the second night of "An Evening With Harry, Carrie, and Garp." The charity reading with JK Rowling, Stephen King, and John Irving took place last week in NYC. Enjoy!
Posted by
08-10-2006
at 09:25 AM
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Jo Rowling and husband Neil Murray attended the movie premiere of Snow Cake earlier today at the Edinburgh Film Festival. Some photos of their appearance can be seen here. Alan Rickman (Professor Snape) stars as Alex Hughes in the film.
Thanks, VTM, for the tip!
Posted by
08-15-2006
at 5:53 PM
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A report yesterday stated that JK Rowling signed a letter of intent to Disney concerning plans for a Harry Potter theme park. Today, a representative for Jo informed us that there is no truth to this.
Posted by
10-17-2006
at 12:16 AM
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Jo Rowling recently donated a new, autographed copy of Half-Blood Prince to the Helen Ritson Trust Fund, a charity that benefits underprivileged children. You can now bid for the book on eBay, but note that the auction will close in three days.
Posted by
10-23-2006
at 11:31 AM
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According to a poll by hotel company Travelodge, Jo has the fifth biggest fan base in the United Kingdom. The Harry Potter author ranks behind Manchester United (an English soccer team), pop star Robbie Williams, and the Liverpool Football Club. This news poster is disappointed to see that Irish rock band U2 comes in at number six.
Posted by
11-06-2006
at 12:19 AM
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Friday Night Shirt, a short film about the lives of single mothers in Yarmouth, has won a "Deffie" at a Hollywood film festival. JK Rowling, who struggled herself as a single mother some years ago, financed the poignant film.
Thanks to HPANA for the link.
Posted by
01-16-2007
at 2:00 PM
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Forbes has placed JK Rowling at #2 on their list of the richest women in entertainment. They estimate her net wealth as $1 billion, and she is the only career author on the list. In first place is Oprah Winfrey ($1.5 billion).
Thanks to Amy for the tip!
Posted by
01-18-2007
at 10:45 AM
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The youngest Rowling-Murray turns two years old today. From all the MuggleNet staff, we hope you have a great birthday, Mackenzie Jean Rowling Murray!
Posted by
01-23-2007
at 07:20 AM
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Bloomsbury has updated their 21 Great Reads for the 21st Century with news that over the next year, "two or three authors will feature each month, giving details of their careers, forthcoming books and events and suggestions of similar Bloomsbury authors you might be interested in." We are unsure when JK Rowling will feature but will keep you informed if we hear anything.
Thanks to everyone who emailed!
Posted by
04-03-2007
at 5:12 PM
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JK Rowling has been honored with a 2007 Rave Award. The award, given to 22 distinguished people, recognizes those who "before changing the game in technology, business, or culture, they first changed themselves."
The award ceremony will take place in San Francisco this evening, but JK unfortunately will not attend.
Attached to the write-up on Jo is a brand new photo of the author.
Congratulations, Jo!
Posted by
04-27-2007
at 11:02 AM
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The BBC children's program Blue Peter has announced a new contest that will give one lucky kid the opportunity to meet Jo in their studio. To enter, you must be 14 years or younger, submit a question you'd like to ask Jo, and enter a picture of yourself dressed as a witch or wizard.
Good luck to anyone who enters! Thanks to everyone who sent in the details.
Posted by
05-30-2007
at 11:45 AM
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On Saturday, JK Rowling attended the Raisa Gorbachev Foundation's Second Annual Gala Dinner at Hampton Court Palace. The foundation provides support for families dealing with cancer and raises money for cancer research. Also in attendance were Ralph Fiennes, Emma Watson, Elton John, and Madonna.
Posted by
06-02-2007
at 6:26 PM
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As reported previously, on July 21st, JK Rowling will be reading from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows at London's National History Museum, and Bloomsbury opened a contest where 1,700 fans could get the chance to meet Jo and get their copy of Book 7 signed. Furthermore, the first 500 randomly selected winners would attend her midnight reading. This contest is now closed and the winners will be notified by June 18th.
However, a number of other publishers are still accepting entries - Scholastic, Raincoast, and Allen & Unwin - though these will also be closing soon.
Good luck to those who enter.
Posted by
06-12-2007
at 08:46 AM
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It was announced this morning on NBC's Today Show that Jo will give a rare television interview about the outcome of Deathly Hallows, as well as her plans for the future, shortly after the book's release. This is scheduled to air in the US on July 26th, July 27th, and on Dateline on July 29th.
Thanks to everyone who sent that in!
UPDATE: UK fans will not miss out, as Jo will also make an appearance on BBC One's Jonathan Ross on July 6th. We'll most certainly have a video of this online shortly after it airs.
UPDATE #2: Another appearance has been scheduled, this time for BBC children's show, Blue Peter on July 20th, just a day before the release of Deathly Hallows. The show will be recorded, however, on July 5th.
Posted by
06-13-2007
at 08:43 AM
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Bloomsbury has just announced that for the first time the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows audiobook, read by Stephen Fry, will be released at the same time as the book (July 21st). Click here to hear Fry's message about this (containing a possible clue?), and here to see a promotional image of Fry along with Jo Rowling.
Here are some other interesting (random) facts about this audiobook:
-Listening time for the DH audio edition is 24 hours and 1 minute
-The audio editions of the Harry Potter books have now sold over a million copies.
-Stephen Fry has spent a total of 38 days in the studio recording all seven Harry Potter books
-Stephen Fry has voices for over 170 characters from the books
-In the same time as it takes to listen to all seven audiobooks you could go to the moon, and still have nearly a day left over to look around, or listen to a Harry Potter book, once you got there.
-In the same time as it takes to listen to the Deathly Hallows audiobook, you could:
· Fly from London to Sydney, Australia
· Run the men’s 100 metres world record 8800 times
· Play 16 football matches
· Listen to Queen’s ‘It’s a kind of magic’ 330 times
· Watch The Wizard of Oz 14 times
Posted by
06-29-2007
at 11:07 AM
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The first part of JK Rowling on the Jonathan Ross show is now online. In the interview, the author discusses how and why she chose her pen name, her plans after Harry Potter, and the number of deaths that will be present in the last installation of the series, Deathly Hallows. We will have the second part of this interview online shortly!
Edit: The second part of the interview is now online here.
Please note: The video contains some mature dialogue and content that may not be suitable for younger audiences.
Posted by
07-06-2007
at 8:00 PM
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The Sun is reporting a JK Rowling documentary that will debut this winter. RDF Media was given "unprecedented access" to film her life during the last year, the time she was writing Deathly Hallows. The documentary is scheduled to be broadcast on ITV1 as a special sometime before Christmas.
Posted by
07-07-2007
at 09:10 AM
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All 65 of JK Rowling's publishers will be distributing posters with information on Madeleine McCann (the missing UK four-year-old girl) when they deliver the seventh Harry Potter book. Booksellers are being asked to display these in their shops to help aid the search for Madeleine as well as many other missing children.
"I fervently hope that posters displayed prominently in shops all over the world when the new book comes out will help find Madeleine McCann and will raise the profile of the many other missing children in different countries."
It was previously reported that bookmarks, bearing Madeleine's face, would be placed in each copy of the books. This idea was dropped because Jo and her publishers "feel that they have a responsibility to protect younger readers and not to expose them to certain issues without their parents' compliance."
Posted by
07-16-2007
at 2:05 PM
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The US Harry Potter book publisher has announced plans for Harry Potter Place: a magical, interactive experience for kids and adults open to the public on July 20th from 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
To be located on Mercer Street in New York City, Place will open during a press conference at 8 AM. At the same time, a countdown will commence for the book's midnight release. Harry Potter editor Arthur Levine and Illustrator Mary GrandPre will be in attendance alongside Scholastic President Dick Robinson.
Additionally, the very first author-signed copy of the US edition of Deathly Hallows will be unveiled at the press conference.
Read the entire press release at the link below!
Posted by
07-16-2007
at 12:56 AM
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JK Rowling has made a small update to her official website asking everyone who "calls themselves a Potter fan" to help keep the plot of Deathly Hallows from being spoiled:
We are almost there! As launch night looms, let's all, please, ignore the misinformation popping up on the web and in the press on the plot of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. I'd like to ask everyone who calls themselves a Potter fan to help preserve the secrecy of the plot for all those who are looking forward to reading the book at the same time on publication day. In a very short time you will know EVERYTHING!
We, of course, support Jo's statement and ask all of our visitors to avoid spreading information about Deathly Hallows in our comments. With the book release being less than three days away, there's no point in spoiling it now.
Instead, talk about the latest episode of SpongeBob or perhaps the upcoming Hairspray film. If you need any other topic ideas, please e-mail i need something better to do than spoil the book for everyone three days prior to the release@staff.mugglenet.com.
Posted by
07-18-2007
at 12:12 AM
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This time, though, there is no hidden way of getting inside the Room of Requirement on JK Rowling's official website. Instead, simply clicking on the door and then clicking a note laying on Jo's desk reveals a letter of acknowledgments from the Harry Potter author. She also includes a note to fans:
>Within hours you will know what happens to Harry, Ron, Hermione and the rest in their final adventure. All the secrets I have been carrying around for so long will be yours, too, and those who guessed correctly will be vindicated, and those who guessed wrongly will not, I hope, be too disappointed! As for me, I feel a heady mixture of excitement, nerves and relief. 'Deathly Hallows' remains my favourite of the series, even after several re-reads; I cannot wait to share it with the readers who have stuck with me through six previous books.
After reading Jo's list of acknowledgments, we would like to extend a huge "thank you" back to her on behalf of the visitors and staff of MuggleNet. THANK YOU, JO!
Posted by
07-20-2007
at 05:44 AM
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Lizo from CBBC newsround had a chance to interview JKR at the midnight release party. Jo discussed the Harry Potter journey, her opinion on spoilers, and her writing future. This was filmed and can be viewed on the Newsround Player, under the Harry Potter Tab. You can read the full transcript here:
Posted by
07-24-2007
at 12:50 AM
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In an interview with the Today Show, JK Rowling revealed who the character is that received a reprieve in Deathly Hallows. Highlight between the arrows to read who it is! --> Arthur Weasley <--
Additionally, Jo announced that she "probably will" create a Harry Potter encyclopedia! From NBC's website:
The encyclopedia would include back stories of characters she has already written but had to cut for the sake of narrative arc (“I've said before that Dean Thomas had a much more interesting history than ever appeared in the books”), as well as details about the characters who survive “Deathly Hallows,” characters who continue to live on in Rowling’s mind in a clearly defined magical world.
Click here to read the full article, including full details on the character reprieve. BEWARE of spoilers if you haven't read Deathly Hallows yet!
Posted by
07-24-2007
at 6:46 PM
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Bloomsbury is hosting a live internet chat with J.K. Rowling that will take place from 2:00 - 3:00PM BST on Monday, July 30th. For Americans planning on tuning in, that's 9am EST, 8am CST, 7am MST, and 6am PST. You can submit your question to Jo for consideration at this link.
Posted by Emerson
07-25-2007
at 1:54 PM
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In an interview with USA Today, JK Rowling addresses life after Harry Potter, as well as her reaction to the numerous Deathly Hallows spoilers, which leaked only days before its release:
"I had been working toward that point [the epilogue] for a long time. I did have a sense-of-humor failure when the epilogue went up."
As always, proceed with caution if you have not yet finished the book, as this article contains SPOILERS.
Thanks to Marc for the scan.
Posted by
07-26-2007
at 10:46 AM
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This morning, JK Rowling appeared on The Today Show to answer questions some fans have been asking concerning her last Harry Potter book. In the interview, she addressed things left out of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, such as jobs some of the characters took on in the future. She also discussed the epilogue that many fans were not expecting to see.
Here is the article and please do not read the it if you have not read Deathly Hallows as is it does contain SPOILERS about the book. The second part of this interview will air tomorrow and a one-hour special will be shown on Dateline on Sunday.
EDIT: Video is now online at the link above.
Posted by
07-26-2007
at 07:46 AM
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Scholastic, the US publisher of the books, today announced the launch of the J.K. Rowling and the Open Book Tour Sweepstakes on July 30th. One thousand lucky fans will be selected in a sweepstakes and will receive a pair of tickets to Jo's reading at Carnegie Hall on Friday, October 19th.
To enter: Print out and complete an entry form available at www.scholastic.com/harrypotter or by printing your name, home address, and phone number on a sheet of paper and mailing the entry to:
Scholastic
Attn: J.K. Rowling and the Open Book Tour Sweepstakes
557 Broadway
New York, NY 10012
Entries must be received by August 31st, 2007, and are limited to one each person.
Good luck!
Posted by
07-27-2007
at 11:32 AM
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Recently, the entire interview that Meredith Vieira of the Today Show conducted with JK Rowling aired on Dateline. In this exclusive one-on-one, Jo discusses everything about Book 7--deaths, the reprieve, and Snape. She also goes off topic to talk about the franchise including the movies and theme park.
If you missed this interview, the entire transcript can be read here, but be cautious if you have not read Deathly Hallows because it does contain SPOILERS.
Posted by
07-29-2007
at 11:30 PM
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Earlier today, JK Rowling hosted a live web chat on Bloomsbury's official website where she answered several questions about Deathly Hallows:
Michael: Why didnt fawkes come back to help harry I would have thought that since harry was so loyal to dumbledore, fawkes would have been harrys new pet
J.K. Rowling: Something had to leave the school for good when Dumbledore died, and I decided that would be Fawkes. Dumbledore was a very great and irreplacable man, and the loss of Fawkes (and the fact that he was 'non-transferable'!) expresses this symbolically
Read the entire transcript at the link below! Thank you to everyone who sent it in.
Posted by
07-30-2007
at 11:20 AM
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Joanne Kathleen Rowling and her fictional character Harry Potter both celebrate their birthday today! Jo is now 42 (not looking a day over 20), and Harry turns 27.
We hope Jo has a fantastic day with Neil and her family!
Posted by
07-31-2007
at 00:59 AM
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A photo of JK Rowling's son, David, was previously published by The Sunday Express alongside an article about Jo's approach to motherhood. JK later sued the paper and the agency which supplied the photo, seeking damages and an injunction banning further publication of the photograph or any other picture taken of him without his consent. Unfortunately, she has lost this case but plans to appeal.
Jo and husband Neil stated, "We see no legitimate reason why, as in this case, David, who was less than two years of age at the time, should have his photograph taken and then published in the press. We take his, and that of his siblings, privacy and safety very seriously."
The judge remarked that he has "considerable sympathy for the claimant's parents and anyone else who wishes to shield their children from intrusive media attention. [But] an area of routine activity which, when conducted in a public place, carries no guarantee of privacy."
We wish Jo luck in her appeal.
Posted by
08-08-2007
at 05:13 AM
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The Associated Press is reporting that our favorite author may be working on a crime novel. The information comes from novel writer Ian Rankin, who is a neighbor of Jo's.
"My wife spotted her writing her Edinburgh criminal detective novel," the newspaper, which was available late Saturday, quoted Rankin as saying.
Rankin, famous for his own police novels set in the historic Scottish city, said he had not discussed the project with Rowling personally, and declined to reveal how he had learned about her plans.
"It is great that she has not abandoned writing or Edinburgh cafes," Rankin said.
As the article mentions, Jo has said she will work on new stories in the future (and confirmed that a young children's book is halfway complete at a charity reading back in August 2006). We'll keep you updated as we know more, but consider this a big rumor for now. If she were to release a new book, it likely won't be for a while. Thanks to everyone who e-mailed with the tip!
Posted by
08-19-2007
at 1:48 PM
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The author of the Harry Potter novels and the actress that brings Hermione to life on the movie screen have been selected as two of 100 women Premiere has chosen because of their impact on the film industry in 2007. WORD WIZARD
J.K. Rowling
The author behind the second highest-grossing film franchise in history (after James Bond) cast a powerful spell with the release of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, which broke Spider-Man 2's record for the best Wednesday opening in history. One week later, the final book in the series was released to riotous crowds who bought 8.3 million copies on the first day in the U.S. alone — and Warner Brothers acknowledged that movie ticket sales for Phoenix actually fell because fans were too busy reading. What a novel idea!
HOGWARTS HOTTIE
Emma Watson
Whether or not the young actress can and will play anyone besides the Harry Potter film franchise's Hermione is irrelevant until 2010, when the series will reach its grand finale. Until then, she'll amass more and more fans while putting away $4 million per film into her college fund.
Posted by
08-22-2007
at 4:53 PM
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Scholastic has revealed the lucky 40 schools in New York City that will be participating in JK Rowling's Open Book Tour on October 19th. Each school will select 40 students, totaling 1600 children from third through twelfth grade. From the press release:
New York City Schools Chancellor Joel Klein and Scholastic Chairman, President and CEO Richard Robinson handed out 40 Sorting Hats to representatives from participating schools (listed below) to help each select 40 lucky third through twelfth graders who will attend the event at Carnegie Hall on October 19th.In addition, Scholastic announced that they will be donating 5,000 copies of Sorcerer's Stone to New York City public schools so students can "begin their Hogwarts journey."
For the full press release, including a list of NYC schools that were chosen and the school selection process, follow the link below!
Posted by
09-05-2007
at 6:25 PM
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Fifteen high schools, 15 middle schools, and 10 elementary schools in the Los Angeles area have been randomly selected to participate in JK Rowling's Open Book Tour stop in LA on October 15th. A student from each of the 40 schools will be selected (based on an essay contest) to attend the event. Once there, each student will receive a signed book from Jo.
For the full list of schools, see the link above. Thanks to everyone who e-mailed with the tip!
Posted by
09-10-2007
at 9:12 PM
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BBC News is reporting that the first complete signed set of Potter books is now up for auction to benefit a charity named Books Abroad:
All of the books have been signed by the author JK Rowling and are so valuable that they are being kept in an Aberdeenshire police station.
They will be auctioned off on eBay in aid of local charity Books Abroad which supplies books to children in 80 countries worldwide.
The Potter books are expected to raise at least £20,000.
Thanks to everyone who e-mailed with the tip!
Posted by
09-17-2007
at 10:28 AM
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Canadian visitor Lori sent us this article from GlobeandMail.com, which reveals Jo's plans to hold a book reading in Canada:
Ms. Rowling, who lives in England, will make an appearance the morning of Oct. 23 at the Wintergarden Theatre in downtown Toronto. It's an all-ages event hosted by Toronto's International Festival of Authors and Rowling's Canadian publisher, Vancouver-based Raincoast Books. Ms. Rowling will read from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, entertain questions from fans and autograph complimentary copies of “Deathly Hallows.”
Starting today through September 27th, Canadian fans can visit Raincoast's website and enter for the drawing that awards 10 pairs of tickets daily. Tickets are also being given out through Canadian libraries and the country's 79 public and Catholic school boards.
Good luck to all who enter!
Posted by
09-17-2007
at 10:38 AM
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Previously we told you that JK Rowling had agreed donate and auction a signed set of her beloved series for Books Abroad, a charity that seeks to "help to educate children worldwide by sending free school books that are carefully chosen to match the need of each school." Earlier today at midnight the auction on eBay had closed with the winning bid at £18,200, or $37,100 with the starting offer at £100. To prevent the books from being stolen, they were locked in a jail prior to the auction. Books Abroad said they currently "don't have any specific use (for the money) in mind."
Posted by
09-30-2007
at 5:11 PM
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Another set of JK Rowling's autographed Harry Potter books has been put up for auction by the National Braille Press today for the Hands On! Books for Blind Children charity. This organization "strive[s] to eliminate the literacy gap that separates blind children from the mainstream." The auction will continue until October 25, 2007 at 9:00 PM EDT and on the next day it will be featured live at the gala hosted by The Tonight Show's Jay Leno beginning at 7 PM and ending at 9 PM.
Posted by
10-03-2007
at 5:13 PM
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The Herald is reporting that Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling recently welcomed a new member to her family when she adopted Sapphire, a retired racing dog from the Greyhound Rescue Fife. Rowling made a favorable donation of £1,000 and wasn't recognized at first by the shelter's owner, Mrs. Fernie.
"When I looked at the cheque I couldn't believe it. The first thing I noticed was the amount she had made it out for. Then I spotted her name and realised who it was. I just said, 'Oh, I didn't recognise you,' and she just smiled politely. She was a lovely woman - the whole family were very nice."
Thanks to HPANA!
Posted by Micah
10-08-2007
at 9:27 PM
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Do not fret... it's not the Harry Potter film you're thinking! The Scotsman is reporting that Jo has not seen the 1986 film Troll, which features two characters named Harry Potter. Even more coincidental, the plot involves a magical ring which can turn a troll back to his human form.
The revelation was made newsworthy because a remake is currently in the works, scheduled for a release in 2009. No word yet on whether or not Dan Radcliffe will be cast as Harry Potter.
Posted by
10-09-2007
at 11:46 AM
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In an article published yesterday by GMTV, we have learned that our favorite author will be recognized alongside several others for her inspirational work at the British Pride Awards:
Twelve years ago, a woman sitting in Edinburgh coffee shop could be seen scribbling in a notebook, creating the life of a schoolboy wizard. Since the success of Harry Potter, Jo has inspired a new generation of avid readers, and she has encouraged a whole host of wannabe writers to put pen to paper. But despite a full-time writing schedule, Jo is also President of the charity One Parent Families, the patron of The Multiple Sclerosis Society and co-founder of the Children's High Level Group, helping young people in care.
The awards will be aired on ITV1 tomorrow (Wednesday) night at 9 PM GMT. If anyone is able to capture video or screenshots of Jo's appearance, please send it in!
Posted by
10-09-2007
at 11:59 AM
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CBC News, based in Canada, is reporting that an Indian community is being sued over their replica of the Hogwarts castle. Made out of canvas and papier mâché, the castle was going to be used in an upcoming festival. However, a representative for the community groups claims they had no idea they needed to seek permission. From CBC:
The group had also hired artists to create a replica of the Hogwarts Express, the train that Harry Potter and his young wizard friends take to the school, as well as life-sized models of the main figures in the best-selling series of books.
The group has spent about $30,000 for its replica, called a pandal.
"It's just a theme.… We have also modelled the Titanic and no-one sued us," said another organizer, Robin Mukherjee.
A lawyer will try to fight the lawsuit on Friday. For the full story, click here.
Posted by
10-11-2007
at 12:20 AM
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As reported yesterday, a lawsuit was filed against an Indian community that had created a replica of Hogwarts castle to be used in an upcoming festival. Today, an Indian court rejected the claim made by author J.K. Rowling and Warner Brothers for copyright breach.
"The group's lawyer said they argued that since the celebrations were held in the public interest and they were not for profit, the community did not need to pay compensation."
Neither court officials nor the lawyers for J.K. Rowling were immediately available for comment.
Posted by Micah
10-12-2007
at 12:19 AM
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Common Sense Media has announced that JK Rowling and the Potter series are recipients of their "ONnie" award, which recognize winners "for bringing us great, family-friendly entertainment, and providing leadership on kids and media issues."
Congratulations to Jo! Thanks to Tracy for the tip.
Posted by
10-12-2007
at 9:15 PM
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In two new articles with MTV, JK Rowling discusses just how much she revealed to the trio prior to the release of Deathly Hallows. Jo states that, whilst none of the actors explicitly asked her for information, "[she] told all of them little bits,” adding that Emma "nearly fell off the chair laughing" when she heard of a storyline regarding Hermione.
Dan Radcliffe, however, experienced the downside to being 'in the know' as, in telling his school friends he knew the ending of Deathly Hallows, he was immediately "besieged and started to panic".
The second article focuses on the somewhat controversial issue of Christianity and its place in the Harry Potter series. "To me [the religious parallels have] always been obvious," Jo says, proceeding to discuss how it was inevitable that there would be religious references in the books as "they're very British" and so religious quotes and imagery would naturally be encountered by the characters due to the setting.
When it comes to commenting on her own beliefs, Jo says, "I go to church myself [but] don't take any responsibility for the lunatic fringes of my own religion."
Posted by
10-17-2007
at 12:31 AM
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Here are the first photos of JK Rowling at today's US Open Book tour reading in New Orleans. Jo offered some advice to aspiring writers: "Read a lot. And write what you know."
We'll hopefully know more soon. Remember that Jo's next reading will take place in New York City.
Posted by
10-18-2007
at 3:34 PM
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J.K. Rowling updated the News Section of her official site earlier today saying that she could not approve of "companion books" or "encyclopedias" to her series.
The Harry Potter author and Warner Bros. filed suit in a Manhattan Court today against Harry Potter Lexicon owner Steve Vander Ark and several defendants for publishing "an unofficial encyclopedic companion to the 'Harry Potter' series," saying it "infringes copyright and attempts to cash in on the successful brand." The Harry Potter Lexicon is slated to be released by RDR Books on November 28.
Roger Rapoport, the publisher and owner of RDR Books said the companion novel "only promotes the sale of J.K. Rowling's work and we intend to publish on schedule as planned."
Thanks to everyone who sent this in!
Posted by Micah
10-31-2007
at 7:08 PM
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Another update was made to JK Rowling's official website today, in which it was announced in the news section that not only has Jo written 'The Tales of Beedle the Bard', the book of fairytales mentioned in Deathly Hallows, but also that the seventh of these rare, handwritten items will be auctioned for charity, The Children's Voice, with a starting price of £30,000.
The book includes the previously heard, "The Tale of the Three Brothers", as well as new stories, "The Fountain of Fair Fortune", "The Wizard and the Hopping Pot,", "Babbitty Rabbitty and her Cackling Stump" and "The Warlock’s Hairy Heart".
The auction will take place at Sotheby's on December 13th 2007.
Thanks to everyone who sent this in!
UPDATE: BBC News now has an article and video online about this story.
Posted by
11-01-2007
at 03:29 AM
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Bazaar magazine is set to release its list of the best dressed women in Britain on Thursday, and a preview has been published by The Telegraph. JK Rowling and Emma Watson come in at #7 and #24, respectively, on the list, and both deservedly.
"JK Rowling, 42, is more guarded with her style and earlier this year appeared in a floor-length, peppermint goddess gown at a charity event at Hampton Court Palace."
Posted by
11-07-2007
at 2:06 PM
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Once again, JK Rowling is up for consideration as TIME's Person of the Year. TIME is looking for input from their visitors via a poll, where you can rank ten candidates from least favorite to most favorite. They also have pros and cons for rating Jo:
Pro: Finished a seven-book epic that will be read by children (and lots of adults) for generations to come. Slowly creeping up on Agatha Christie as the most read author not named Shakespeare.
Con: Seventh book wasn't her best, and hard to argue she was the most important person of 2007.
Get voting and let TIME know who you think is most important! Thanks to Jonathan for the tip.
Posted by
11-08-2007
at 1:25 PM
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As we told you back on Halloween, JK Rowling and Warner Brothers filed a lawsuit against RDR Books and Lexicon site owner Steve Vander Ark for going through with publication of a Harry Potter encyclopedia. The Harry Potter author has updated her website today with new developments:
As you may have read, on 8 November, 2007 a judge in New York granted an order against RDR Books in respect to the proposed book The Harry Potter Lexicon, such order applying to any proposed licensing of the book worldwide.
Judge Patterson has imposed a restraining order on the publishers of the Lexicon, which will remain in place until February 2008. This means that the book can not be completed, published or marketed until the court has had time to decide whether it would break the law if published in its present form.
I take no pleasure in the fact that publication has been prevented for the present. On the contrary, I feel massively disappointed that this matter had to come to court at all. Despite repeated requests, the publishers have refused to even countenance making any changes to the book to ensure that it does not infringe my rights.
Unless their position changes, we will all return to court next year. Given my past good relations with the Lexicon fansite, I can only feel sad and disillusioned that this is where we have ended up.
We'll keep you updated as more news follows!
Posted by
11-09-2007
at 2:38 PM
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J.K. Rowling has been named Entertainment Weekly's Entertainer of the Year. The announcement was made earlier this morning on the Today Show, which you can see video of here. Rowling, who appears on the cover, is the first author to ever receive this award. On why she was chosen:
"J.K. Rowling is our Entertainer of the Year because she did something very, very hard, and she did it very, very well, thus pleasing hundreds of millions of children and adults very, very much. In an era of videogame consoles, online multiplayer 'environments,' and tinier-is-better mobisodes, minisodes, and webisodes, she got people to tote around her big, fat old-fashioned printed-on-paper books as if they were the hottest new entertainment devices on the planet.
Thanks to Angie for sending this in!
Posted by Micah
11-23-2007
at 12:23 AM
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The Trefoil House has received a signed copy of Deathly Hallows for auction. The Scotsman reports:
David McArthur, Trefoil's chief executive said: "We are absolutely delighted by this generous gift. This is a chance for someone to win it without having to pay lots of money as it's not an auction and as it's only taking place over two days the odds are good."
The book will be raffled as part of the annual Christmas Bonanza, an event where people can come and buy presents they would not normally find in mainstream shops.
The event is being held at the Edinburgh Corn Exchange on December 4th and 5th. Thanks to Loris and Timo for the tip!
Posted by
11-29-2007
at 10:10 AM
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Jo has made several updates to her website this morning! One can be found in the Extra Stuff section regarding the Elder wand, a couple can be found in the FAQ area here and here, and one is the Characters area.
The author also made a nice update to her diary, where she reflects on the Summer that was:
The US/Canadian tour was my favourite ever. If anybody reading this was in the audience for any of those events, thank you, because they were only as wonderful as they were because of the brilliant questions and the overwhelming warmth of those present.
And lastly, in the News section, Jo revealed that the documentary (who's crew was following her for a year leading up to the release of Deathly Hallows) will be aired on ITV in the UK on December 30th, 2007.
Posted by
12-07-2007
at 09:52 AM
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On tonight's Barbara Walters' 10 Most Fascinating People of 2007 Special, JK Rowling was named the number one most fascinating and "magical" of the year.
Although most of those who were featured in the program had fresh interviews with Walters, JK Rowling's piece only included older interviews where Jo talks about how she came up with the idea for the series.
If anyone has recorded the video, which aired on ABC, please send it in to tips at staff dot mugglenet dot com.
Posted by
12-06-2007
at 10:06 PM
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UPDATE: Amazon has updated their site with their first review of the tale The Wizard and the Hopping Pot. Use the links below to see that review and more as they are posted.
The online retail store has announced on their website that they made the $3.98 million purchase of Tales of Beedle the Bard at the Sotheby's-hosted charity auction today. Along with this announcement, they have released several details about the book:
- The book is 157 pages.
- Amazon plans to "take the book on tour to libraries and schools so that kids can get a look at the magic in the Bard's own handwriting."
- Amazon will not be making a print version of the book (they have no rights to publishing its contents).
- On this page, you can find several high quality pictures of the book in all its glory. At the bottom of the page there is a video where JK Rowling's note to the buyer is read.
- Amazon promises reviews of all five tales included in Beedle the Bard.
- Official press release right here.
For more information about today's bid, click here.
Posted by
12-13-2007
at 5:41 PM
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J.K. Rowling has been nominated for a Morgan Stanley Great Briton Award in the category of Arts. The awards honor the key figures of the past year - as nominated by the British public. Rowling was nominated in this category along with actor Sir Ian McKellen and artist Damien Hirst. On Rowling's accomplishments in 2007:
This year saw the final Harry Potter novel published. Selling 11 million copies in its first 24 hours, it broke the record for the fastest-selling book; previously held by the sixth Harry Potter novel, which sold 9 million on its first day in 2005. The books have been translated into 64 different languages. The Order of Phoenix managed to become the first English-language book ever to top the bestseller list in France. In addition, the film of the Order of the Phoenix, in which Harry painfully begins to understand the battles with evil that lie ahead, was released this year. It was described as a deliciously dark affair, brimming with impressively gritty performances still managing to balance magical wonder with breathless excitement.
The awards will be given out at a dinner ceremony in January.
Posted by Micah
12-15-2007
at 4:58 PM
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As reported earlier this week Amazon.com, the winning bidder of The Tales of Beedle the Bard for a staggering $3.98 million will be posting reviews of all the stories contained within the book. They have now released a review of the second story, The Fountain of Fair Fortune. All reviews can be seen on this page. The auction was held to benefit The Children's Voice.
Thanks to Dylan for the update!
Posted by Micah
12-15-2007
at 08:28 AM
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Amazon.com has now released reviews of the third and fourth stories found in The Tales of Beedle The Bard, The Warlock's Hairy Heart and Babbitty Rabbitty and her Cackling Stump. All reviews can be seen on this page and keep checking back as a summary of the final tale has yet to be posted.
Posted by Micah
12-15-2007
at 9:33 PM
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Jo Rowling recently appeared on the Harry Potter podcast, PotterCast, and part one of this interview is now available for download here (right click and save)! Stay tuned for part two next week.
Some of the items discussed in this part of the interview include:
-The morals of Beedle the Bard
-Who was right about Horcri?
-Who made the first Horcrux?
-Creating a Horcrux vs. splitting the atom
-Will Jo tell us how to create a Horcrux?
-The things that made her editor look like she wanted to vomit
Posted by
12-18-2007
at 06:19 AM
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ITV has sent us a preview clip of the JK Rowling documentary, "JK Rowling... A Year in the Life," which will air on December 30th on ITV1 at 7 PM, lasting one hour. We'll be sure to have a video of it online afterwards.
We'll have another clip (showing an emotional Jo) for you on Sunday.
Posted by
12-20-2007
at 10:48 AM
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ITV has sent us another clip from the upcoming documentary "JK Rowling... A Year in the Life." It shows a very emotional Jo returning to the flat she once lived in. Click the link below to see the video and an accompanying press release. Remember that the documentary will air on December 30th on ITV at 7:00 PM.
Posted by
12-23-2007
at 06:25 AM
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PotterCast has posted the second installment of its interview with Jo Rowling. In this part, Jo chats about the "Love Room" in the Department of Mysteries, what happened to Florean Fortescue, her thoughts on fan fiction, and more. Right click and save here to download.
Posted by
12-24-2007
at 09:55 AM
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Ah, and what a year it was. 2007 was BY FAR the biggest year for Harry Potter fans that we have ever seen. It was filled with book releases, movie releases, theme park announcements, gay character announcements, and oh-so-much more.
We now present to you our fourth annual Year in Review, highlighting the biggest and most interesting stories of 2007.
Feel free to use the comments of this news post to reflect on this year and discuss what's coming in 2008. Also, look for two more big projects appearing here from MuggleNet within the next week!
Posted by
12-25-2007
at 00:40 AM
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ITV has sent us a final clip from the upcoming documentary "JK Rowling... A Year in the Life." It shows Jo drawing out the family trees for both the Potters and the Weasleys. Click the link below to see the video and an accompanying press release. The documentary will air on December 30th on ITV at 7:00 p.m.
You can take a look at the family tree shown in the documentary by clicking here.
UPDATE: Jo has also updated her site to put the family tree behind the usually-locked door.
Posted by Micah
12-28-2007
at 10:16 PM
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The documentary "JK Rowling... A Year in the Life" that aired earlier this evening on ITV in the UK is now available on the station's website. The description reads:
With unprecedented access, cameras follow author JK Rowling in the year that she completes her publishing phenomenon, the Harry Potter series. The programme captures her return to the sources of her inspiration, and she reveals what she is planning on writing next.
Posted by Micah
12-30-2007
at 8:57 PM
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It was announced today that our favorite author will deliver the keynote address at this year's Harvard University commencement ceremony on June 5th. University President Drew G. Faust was quoted as saying:
Perhaps no one in our time has done more than J. K. Rowling to inspire young people to experience the excitement and the sheer joy of reading. Her tales of Harry, Ron, and Hermione and their Hogwarts adventures have cast a spell on millions of readers around the world. Harvard isn’t exactly Hogwarts, but I’m sure that her visit with us this June will be a moment of magic for J.K. Rowling’s many admirers across the University.
If any of you lucky Harvard students out there are present at the ceremony, we welcome all reports from Jo's keynote sent in after the event! Thanks to everyone who e-mailed in with the tip.
UPDATE: Harvard student Jill has informed us that the school always posts video from their commencement ceremonies online, so we'll all have a chance to see Jo's speech!
Posted by
01-17-2008
at 3:13 PM
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Agence France-Presse is reporting this evening that JK Rowling has halted printing of the Finnish Deathly Hallows translation due to environmental concerns. Jo insists "that it import paper certified by the Forest Stewardship Council as being derived from wood grown and harvested in a way that promotes sustainable forest development."
Read the full story right here. The Finnish translation is still due out on March 7th.
Posted by
01-24-2008
at 00:45 AM
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Jo Rowling has been awarded with an outstanding achievement prize at the UK's The South Bank Show awards which recognize British achievement in music, theatre, television and the arts.
The author mentioned that finishing Harry Potter "has been the worst break-up of my life - far worse than splitting up with any man. But it has also been wonderful to stop and draw breath and think, 'My God, look what's happened with an idea I had 17 years ago on a train'."
The awards will be broadcast on 3 February on ITV1 at 2240 GMT.
Check out some pics of Jo, looking wonderful, at the award ceremony at Getty.
UPDATE: Sky News video interview with Jo here and her acceptance speech here.
Posted by
01-29-2008
at 11:15 AM
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Those of you in Canada will get a chance to see James Runcie's documentary "JK Rowling...A Year in the Life" this Monday, February 4 at 10:00 p.m. ET on CBC Newsworld.
The documentary originally aired back in December on ITV:
With unprecedented access, cameras follow author JK Rowling in the year that she completes her publishing phenomenon, the Harry Potter series. The programme captures her return to the sources of her inspiration, and she reveals what she is planning on writing next.
We will keep you posted on any plans for it to air here in the U.S. Thanks to Tasha and Kelly!
Posted by Micah
02-02-2008
at 1:46 PM
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Spanish publication XLSemanal conducted a special interview with JK Rowling a few months ago, although it has only now emerged online. We now have a (translated) preview of the article, in which Jo discusses Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge, likening him to English Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain:
“My model of the world after Voldemort’s return was, directly, the government of Neville Chamberlain in Great Britain during the Second World War, when he tried to minimize the menace of the Nazi regime for political convenience.”
The author talks also about her personal life and relationships, saying of her husband, Dr Neil Murray:
"What I most adore about him is that, everyday, Neil knows more people that want to know if he can help them, without having to ask who he is married to."
More excerpts (in Spanish) can be viewed courtesy of HarryLatino. The article will be published in its entirety in this week's edition of XLSemanal.
Thanks to everyone who sent this in!
Posted by
02-04-2008
at 2:58 PM
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The Literary and Historical Society of University College Dublin will present JK Rowling with a James Joyce Award on Tuesday 12th February in the college. We'll have more on this soon.
Posted by
02-09-2008
at 10:35 AM
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UPDATE: Four pictures from the event can be seen here, here, here, and here. Big thanks to Stephen Boyle and Daniel Lynch!
Last night, Jo Rowling was presented by the Literary and Historical Society of UCD in Dublin with the James Joyce award. Over 600 fans turned out to see the author read from Deathly Hallows and answer 10 questions.
Jo said she would "never say never" to another book in the series, but also felt "that the Harry story is now done." She also revealed the character she would most like to meet is "Dumbledore -- to apologise for outing him," even if she had been tempted by a hug with Hagrid (reports La Gazette du Sorcier).
As for the opposition of the Pope to Harry Potter, she confesses that she doesn't follow the issue. Basically, she is definitely opposed to censorship and sees Harry Potter more as a moral book than a proselyte one.
Posted by
02-13-2008
at 06:28 AM
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According to a report today by The Sun, Gordon Brown has been pressing for change in Romania where children have, in some instances, been kept in cages. He will meet with Calin Popescu-Tariceanu while Jo Rowling will meet with Gordon Brown's wife, Sarah, in an attempt to better the situation.
A Downing Street insider said: "This is an issue which Sarah and JK are passionate about. They’ve been grateful for the willingness of the Romanian government to engage in serious discussion about it."
Jo has previously donated generously to this cause.
Posted by
02-27-2008
at 1:56 PM
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As most of you know, JK Rowling and Warner Brothers are currently in a legal battle with RDR Books concerning a Potter encyclopedia by the Harry Potter Lexicon. JKR and WB are fighting the publication of the book, and just the other day Jo submitted her declaration. In it, she makes several statements about the fandom as a whole. As the AP reports:
Rowling said she was especially irked that the site's owner and the lexicon's would-be publisher, RDR Books, continued to insist that her acceptance of free, fan-based Web sites justified the efforts.
"I am deeply troubled by the portrayal of my efforts to protect and preserve the copyrights I have been granted in the Harry Potter books," she wrote in court papers filed Wednesday in a lawsuit she brought against the small Muskegon, Mich., publisher.
She said she intends to publish her own definitive Harry Potter encyclopedia.
"If RDR's position is accepted, it will undoubtedly have a significant, negative impact on the freedoms enjoyed by genuine fans on the Internet," she said. "Authors everywhere will be forced to protect their creations much more rigorously, which could mean denying well-meaning fans permission to pursue legitimate creative activities."
Leaky has JK Rowling's full declaration right here. Thanks to everyone who's e-mailed with the information, and we'll continue to update you as this case moves forward.
Posted by
02-29-2008
at 11:04 AM
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To the discouragement of many, JK Rowling updated her official website today with a new entry to the Rumors portion of her site. She lets everyone know that all of the JK Rowling profiles on popular social networking sites are fake:
I like to imagine them partying with all my imaginary friends ('a close friend confided...') in some bright and shiny alternative universe.
Thanks to Trish for the tip!
Posted by
02-29-2008
at 10:49 AM
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The Telegraph has a short piece about Jo Rowling continuing to write in cafes:
"I will continue writing for children because that's what I enjoy," reveals Jo, who greatly misses the child wizard. "It's left me with the biggest emptiness in my life." She will, however, leave behind the magical world of Hogwarts. "I believe that it's good for me and good for my readers that I bring myself to work on something different," she declares.
In a search for inspiration, Jo discloses that she has returned to the Edinburgh cafes where she completed her first novel while unemployed and living on benefits: "I am very good at finding a suitable cafe. I blend into the crowd and, of course, I don't sit in the middle of the bar staring all around me. In 90 per cent of cases, it's the cafe's staff who allow me to work without being bothered."
Posted by
03-02-2008
at 10:26 AM
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Jo Rowling recently granted a lengthy interview to the Edinburgh "Student" newspaper in which she discusses religious opposition to the books, her depression, Dumbledore's sexuality and more. Below is an excerpt:
How does she react to those who disagree with a homosexual character in a children's novel? "So what?" she retorts immediately "It is a very interesting question because I think homophobia is a fear of people loving, more than it is of the sexual act. There seems to be an innate distaste for the love involved, which I find absolutely extraordinary. There were people who thought, well why haven't we seen Dumbledore's angst about being gay?" Rowling is clearly amused by this and rightly so. "Where was that going to come in? And then the other thing was-and I had letters saying this-that, as a gay man, he would never be safe to teach in a school."
An air of incredulity descends on the room as if Rowling herself still can not believe this statement. She continues: "He's a very old single man. You have to ask: why is it so interesting? People have to examine their own attitudes. It's a shade of character. Is it the most important thing about him? No, it's Dumbledore for God's sake. There are 20 things that are relavant to the story before his sexuality." Bottom line then: he isn't a gay character; he's a character that just happens to be gay. Rowling concurs wholeheartedly.
Posted by
03-09-2008
at 06:27 AM
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Author J.K. Rowling will attend the 2008 Galaxy British Books Awards in association with the Richard & Judy Show on April 9th. The announcement was made on the show this past Friday after a short piece officially announcing the awards.
Thanks to Fi for sending this in!
Posted by Micah
03-15-2008
at 8:23 PM
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New details have emerged from the interview an Edinburgh University student conducted with JK Rowling in which she openly discussed the depression she dealt with earlier in her life.
“Mid-twenties life circumstances were poor and I really plummeted,” said Rowling. “The thing that made me go for help . . . was probably my daughter. She was something that earthed me, grounded me, and I thought, this isn’t right, this can’t be right, she cannot grow up with me in this state.”
...
"We're talking suicidal thoughts here, we're not talking 'I'm a little bit miserable',"
Click here to read more from The Times.
Posted by Emerson
03-24-2008
at 1:45 PM
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As mentioned previously and as many of you are well aware, J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. are involved in an ongoing lawsuit with RDR Books over a companion novel seeking publication by Harry Potter Lexicon owner Steve Vander Ark. The Associated Foreign Press is reporting this evening that Jo is expected to appear in court in New York City next month.
A New York Federal District Court Judge ordered today that the case go to trial beginning April 14th and Rowling's presence has been requested by RDR Books.
"We asked for her and they said they would provide her," said lawyer David Hammer. "I would say it would be very unlikely that she would not appear," he added.
The witness list must be submitted by April 4th. We will keep you posted as this story continues to develop. Thanks to Matt for sending this in!
Posted by Micah
03-24-2008
at 8:35 PM
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The London Times reports today that "writing by Anthony Horowitz, Philip Pullman and J. K. Rowling will appear in The Birthday Book, to be published by The Prince’s Foundation for Children & the Arts to mark the Prince of Wales’s 60th birthday." We'll let you know as soon as we have more information.
Thanks to those who emailed!
Posted by
04-02-2008
at 10:45 AM
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Last week we told you about a piece of work appearing in The Birthday Book to mark Prince Charles' 60th birthday.
Now, theBookseller.com is reporting that the piece of work will be an extract from Deathly Hallows. What's more, it will be illustrated by British cartoonist and illustrator Quentin Blake.
Thanks to Pruneau for the tip!
Posted by
04-08-2008
at 11:29 AM
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Earlier this evening author J.K. Rowling attended the Galaxy British Book Awards in London where she received the Lifetime Achievement Award. According to the site, the award "recognizes an enduringly popular author whose books have made an outstanding contribution to contemporary literature."
Prime Minister Gordon Brown had nothing but praise for Rowling:
"She has joined a distinguished line of British authors whose work has got the whole country reading. Her books will be read for many years to come by successive generations."
Thanks to HPANA and everyone who e-mailed for the tip!
Posted by Micah
04-09-2008
at 8:13 PM
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The HP Alliance has announced this evening that, among several well known authors, JK Rowling is part of an open letter asking everyone in the world to take notice to what is happening in Darfur as part of Global Day for Darfur:
Today is the Day for Darfur, which marks the fifth anniversary of one of the world’s bloodiest conflicts. Over 200,000 people have been killed and over two million have been forced to flee from their homes and villages. Children barely old enough to walk, yet alone run, have seen their homes burnt and razed to the ground, their mothers raped and their fathers killed. Most are now holed up in sprawling camps, traumatised and living in fear. Children in Darfur draw pictures of bombs and guns. It is all they have ever known. Childhood is under attack in Darfur.
Visit the HP Alliance's website to read the full letter, see who else signed the letter, and more.
Posted by
04-11-2008
at 8:20 PM
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Tutshill Church in Gloucestershire has been displaying a visitors' book, featuring the signature of Potter author JK Rowling and a mystery person whose name was 'stolen' and given to a character in the book series, and has so far collected a total of £10,000 ($19,900), taking it a step closer to raising the roof. This is most likely the same book as shown in the recent documentary about Jo.
The church also says it has a first edition signed copy of Deathly Hallows, and is currently still deciding what to do with it, adding "[it might be] used as a prize or go to auction, depending on what will raise us more money."
Thanks to everyone who sent this in!
Posted by
04-17-2008
at 4:55 PM
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Reuters reported earlier this evening that ABC News "20/20" is working on a behind-the-scenes documentary on Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling.
The in-depth profile, which will air in November, includes several interviews, the book tour for the final "Harry Potter" installment, and a tour of locations that inspired her characters. It even hints to what the future holds for Harry and his friends.
Posted by Micah
04-20-2008
at 11:32 PM
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Complete transcripts from the JK Rowling/Warner Bros. court case against RDR Books/HP Lexicon are now available. Click here for day one (April 14th), here for day two (April 15th), and here for day three (April 16th).
Thanks to Stanford Law School.
Posted by
04-22-2008
at 12:30 AM
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As most of you know by now, JK Rowling and Warner Bros. are currently involved in a court case against RDR Books and the HP Lexicon regarding a print version of the online Lexicon. Some of Jo's main reasons for taking legal action against this book are that she feels it is in breach of copyright of the Harry Potter novels, is not worthwhile to the reader (in that it provides very little commentary, most of which is "derisory" and "facetious"), and that it could detrimentally affect sales of an all-inclusive encyclopedia which she has long expressed a desire to write and from which sales revenue would be donated to charity.
MuggleNet fully supports Jo Rowling in this case. This week will be, without a doubt, difficult and emotional for the author who has spent 17 years creating the series we all love so much. Because of this, we feel that with as much support as possible, this time can be made more bearable for her.
Please feel free to leave any messages of support in the comments, which we will link to from the main page until a verdict on this case is reached. Thank you.
"I really don't want to cry because I'm British. These books, they saved me, not just in the very obvious material sense, although they did do that...I would have to say that there was a time when they saved my sanity." JK Rowling, April 14th
Posted by
04-15-2008
at 11:43 AM
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AbeBooks.com, a site for finding new and used books of all types, analyzed sales data from 2007 and created a list of the top collectible authors. JK Rowling took the top spot followed by Roderick Gordon, Brian Williams, and Stephen King:
On-going demand for signed Harry Potter books means Rowling tops the index although few first editions of her debut book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, reach the market. An autographed Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows sold for $5,500 just after its release last July.
If you're in the market for a signed Potter novel, we recommend you check out our friends at JKR's Army. They'll tell you what to look out for when shopping for a genuine JK Rowling signature. Thanks to Ali for the tip!
Posted by
05-03-2008
at 4:16 PM
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In the midst of JK Rowling's US-based court trial, her court case in England (over a published photo of her son David taken in 2004) has gone in her favor. The BBC reports:
The agency photo - taken in November 2004 - showed Ms Rowling pushing David in a buggy on a street in Edinburgh.
The picture was published in the Sunday Express and the newspaper later settled the claim.
Judge Sir Anthony Clarke said: "If a child of parents who are not in the public eye could reasonably expect not to have photographs of him published in the media, so too should the child of a famous parent.
"In our opinion, it is at least arguable that a child of 'ordinary' parents could reasonably expect that the press would not target him and publish photographs of him."
Read the full story, including a statement from Jo and her husband Neil, right here. Thanks to everyone who e-mailed!
Posted by
05-07-2008
at 6:34 PM
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In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Mother's Day, Chief Parenting has announced its inaugural Chief Mommy Officer Hall of Fame inductees, women they feel have "achieved greatness in their respective careers, while simultaneously maintaining their roles as exemplary mothers."
Jo Rowling is, of course, among them: "Unemployed, suffering from depression and solely raising her infant daughter on state benefits, Rowling wrote a little book titled Harry Potter."
Thanks to Shane for the tip.
Posted by
05-08-2008
at 11:02 AM
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UPDATE: Waterstone's has kicked off a new contest in relation to this news, that gives three lucky winners the opportunities to be published in the postcard book alongside Jo and the other authors. Find details right here!
Last week, it was announced that JK Rowling will be one of thirteen authors writing a "storycard" on one sheet of paper. Each author's story will then be auctioned off at "What's Your Story?" on June 10th. The money raised will go to the English PEN and Dyslexia Action charities.
Just yesterday, a blog on The Guardian's website revealed that the stories will go on sale to the public later this summer. They will be packaged as a book of postcards and proceeds will also be given to the two charities.
We'll let you know more as soon as we know it. Thanks to Pruneau for the tip!
Posted by
05-14-2008
at 3:53 PM
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Reuters is reporting this evening that Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling has written an 800-word outline of a prequel to the series that will be auctioned off for charity on June 10 in London by Waterstones. This is the charity we told you about a few weeks ago.
The article goes to say that:
"The outline, which ends with the line 'From the prequel I am not working on -- but that was fun!' is one of 13 story outlines written for the auction by famed authors including new Bond writer Sebastian Faulks and Nobel laureate Doris Lessing."
The money raised will go to charities English PEN and Dyslexia Action.
Posted by Micah
05-28-2008
at 7:27 PM
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UPDATE: There has been some confusion in the comments about shipping costs to the United States. Here is what Waterstones has told us:
Standard overseas surface mail is 7.98gbp for the first book and 2.99gbp for each additional book for USA, Australia, Japan etc. Europe is 4.98gbp and 99p per additional book again for surface mail. They only have to pay large amounts of money if they want it couriered (which would be 30 odd quid) - so hopefully that makes it less painful if you live outside the UK. And of course, reading it online or in a window will be free.
We have spoken with Waterstones this morning about JK Rowling's recently announced 800-word Potter prequel, and we hope to have answered more of your burning questions!
- As of today, Waterstones is now accepting preorders for the book at this link. The books will be a one off print run and limited to two per customer because of expected demand. They hope the book will be available in early August.
- Jo's story will be available for viewing online on June 11th. You'll also be able to view it in their store windows the same day (Waterstones is a UK bookstore chain).
- A representative tells us that the prequel was a "complete surprise". They simply asked authors to tell a story and awaited their response. Their official press release, with a quote from Waterstones can be viewed here.
- Lastly, Waterstones has provided us with the final line on JK Rowling's story card. VIEW IT HERE! It reads: "From the prequel I am not working on – but that was fun!"
Please remember that, while all very exciting, the stories from all 13 authors are to benefit the English PEN and Dyslexia Action charities. Take a minute to look at each charity's purpose and how you can help!
Posted by
05-29-2008
at 11:02 AM
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Author J.K. Rowling helped raise £320,436 for multiple sclerosis last night as host of the Enchanted Garden Ball at Harburn House in Scotland.
The top item for auction was the chance to be "immortalized" as a wizard or witch in a portrait at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme park at Islands of Adventure at Universal Studios Florida. The park is set to open late 2009 or early 2010.
Rowling is a patron of the Multiple Sclerosis Society Scotland with her mom, Anne, having battled the disease.
Posted by Micah
06-01-2008
at 12:55 AM
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PerezHilton.com reports today JK Rowling has filed a lawsuit against the publishers of London Star Map, which provides tourists with maps of where to find the private homes of stars.
Jo is understandably not happy to be one of the people on the star map and made this statement:
The sole aim of London Star Map is self-evidently to incite, encourage and enable members of the public to track down and locate the exact location of private residences of various recognisable "celebrities" so that they can visit those residences. I'm a very private individual who regards my family's privacy and safety as having paramount importance."
Thanks to Karla and Nick for the tip!
Posted by
06-04-2008
at 7:15 PM
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UPDATE (4:10 PM EST): JK Rowling's speech has concluded! A video and transcript will be online here this evening.
Back in January we told you about JK Rowling speaking at Harvard's Commencement Ceremony, and today is the big day!
We also told you the other day that the speech will be streamed live online... it should start at 2:30 PM EST at this link, which is soon. The Hardvard Crimson has an article about Jo's visit, who is also receiving an honorary degree today:
Comparing Rowling to yesterday’s Class Day speaker, Federal Reserve Chair Ben S. Bernanke ’75, Professor Maria Tatar, who teaches a course on childhood, said she thinks Rowling will deliver “a witty, inspiring talk that steers clear of the subprime crisis and gas prices but will still engage with tough, real-world issues.”
Read the full story here!
Posted by
06-05-2008
at 1:04 PM
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PHOTOS: Pictures from Jo's time at Harvard can now be viewed here in our gallery. Thanks to UniversHarryPotter!
AUDIO AND VIDEO: Both the audio and the video from today's commencement are now online!
As promised, Harvard University now has the transcript online from Jo's commencement speech. Jo kicked off her speech with a few jokes tailored to Potter fans and then went into some moving words of wisdom:
So today, I can wish you nothing better than similar friendships. And tomorrow, I hope that even if you remember not a single word of mine, you remember those of Seneca, another of those old Romans I met when I fled down the Classics corridor, in retreat from career ladders, in search of ancient wisdom:
As is a tale, so is life: not how long it is, but how good it is, is what matters.
I wish you all very good lives.
Thank you very much.
A video will be posted online shortly in case you missed it. Stay tuned!
Posted by
06-05-2008
at 3:36 PM
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A couple weeks ago we told you about JK Rowling's Harry Potter prequel that she wrote for charity. As noted previously, the prequel will be on display in Waterstones bookstores and their website tomorrow. We'll provide you with a link once it's live, so stay tuned!
The bidding for the prequel is happening today, and The Telegraph has an article about the expected frenzy that will ensue:
A year after the seventh and final Potter book was published, Rowling conjured up a new story to be auctioned for charity. It is sure to provoke a bidding frenzy – her last Potter-related tome written for charity, an illustrated book of fairytales called The Tales of Beedle the Bard, fetched almost £2 million in December last year.
Thanks to everyone who e-mailed with the tip!
Posted by
06-10-2008
at 12:43 AM
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Bloomberg is reporting that JK Rowling's Harry Potter prequel, telling a story of James Potter and Sirius Black, was won by a ghost bidder for 25,000 Pounds ($48,855):
Again, we'll let you know when the Prequel appears online tomorrow. Thanks to Caleb for the tip!
Posted by
06-10-2008
at 4:11 PM
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EDIT: Sorry for the mistake. We were off by an hour. The story should appear online right here any moment now!
JK Rowling's Harry Potter Prequel is already starting to reveal itself in a couple of places. BBC's Lizo was at the charity auction and read a couple sentences of the story. You can watch that video at this link. Additionally, the AFP has a short summary of the story:
Her story is set three years before Harry Potter's birth, and features the youthful wizard's father, James, and series character Sirius Black.
The pair are confronted by two policemen after a high-speed motorcycle chase, and evade the authorities using their broomsticks and magic.
And finally, we now know that the story will be online at 6 AM London time, which is 1 AM EST/10 PM PST. We'll post a link here the moment it goes live!
Posted by
06-10-2008
at 9:59 PM
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Bloomberg has spoken with the winning bidder of JK Rowling's Harry Potter prequel. Having purchased it for nearly $50,000 at the charity auction, the winning bidder was Hira Digpal, president of a Tokyo-based investment-banking consulting company. Digpal had this to say about the win:
I told them, if it gets past my limit, call me -- wake me up,'' said Digpal, 36, a Briton who received the news that he'd won at 5:27 a.m. ``I was thinking of buying stocks, but the market's been very volatile. It's a good investment for when I kick the bucket in 30, 40, 50 years' time.
Thanks to Sam for the tip!
Posted by
06-11-2008
at 11:35 AM
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Forbes has once again named JK Rowling one of the most powerful celebrities. She comes in at number nine, after such stars as Oprah Winfrey, Tiger Woods, and Johnny Depp. Forbes writes:
It was wizardry that transformed J.K. Rowling from a destitute single mother on welfare into a best-selling billionaire. Her adventures of teenage magician Harry Potter and his classmates at Hogwarts became a children's literary sensation in 1998 with the U.S. publication of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.
Read the full list of celebrities here and the entire write up about Jo here. Thanks to everyone who e-mailed with the tip!
Posted by
06-12-2008
at 5:02 PM
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Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, J.K. Rowling and Order of the Phoenix have all been nominated for SyFy Genre Awards. Radcliffe is in the running for Best Actor, Watson for Best Actress (up against Potter co-star Helena Bonham Carter for her role in "Sweeney Todd") and Order of the Phoenix for Best Movie.
J.K. Rowling got the nod for the Gene Roddenberry Lifetime Achievement Award. The nominees are all writers for the first time ever, and only one of them is still alive. Others in contention include: Douglas Adams, Arthur C. Clarke, Gene L. Coon and H.G. Wells.
Voting begins June 25th on SyFy Portal and lasts a month. Winners will be announced in early August. We will post the link for voting as soon as it becomes available.
Thanks to GuillerminaLynn for sending this in!
Posted by Micah
06-14-2008
at 1:52 PM
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The Sunday Mirror reported earlier today that Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling has written a story that is set to become a mini-movie used at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter when it opens in late 2009 or early 2010.
Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint are said to shoot the mini-movie prior to initial filming of Deathly Hallows. The article stated:
"They are also working on extra sequences and clips which will be part of the rides."
Rowling has reportedly been involved throughout the process. Please treat this as a rumor for now as The Mirror is not the most reliable news source.
Posted by Micah
06-15-2008
at 12:41 AM
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As we told you previously, an 800-word prequel to the Harry Potter series was sold at a charity auction for £25,000 last week along with a number of other short stories by renowned writers. The story, featuring James Potter and Sirius Black, can be viewed at Waterstones's website.
The site apparently received more than 70,000 visitors in the first 20 hours of its publication, helping to raise awareness of Waterstones's "What's Your Story?" promotion.
Thanks to everyone who emailed in!
Posted by
06-19-2008
at 3:07 PM
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The town of Edinburgh, known to fans as where JK Rowling has lived and wrote the Potter novels, will bestow a prestigious Edinburgh Award upon Jo at an upcoming ceremony. Said to be the most prestigious award since one given to Sean Connery in 1991, The Scotsman reports:
The city council's Edinburgh Award will also see Ms Rowling immortalised in a Hollywood-style "walk of fame" in the quadrangle outside the City Chambers, where she will leave her handprints.
Scotland's leading literary figures are expected at a gala dinner for the occasion.
A senior source at the city council said: "It should be a fantastic occasion. We're trying to ensure as many other Edinburgh people who have won major awards over the year will be there so they can share in the occasion."
Read the full story right here. Thanks to Jayme for the tip!
Posted by
06-27-2008
at 11:49 PM
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In a new interview for Scotland's Hidden Epidemic: The truth about MS, JK Rowling talks about her mother's battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Jo also says she regretted not telling her mother about Harry Potter before she died.
You can see video of her interview right here. The documentary will air tomorrow (Wednesday) on BBC One Scotland at 22:45 BST.
Posted by
07-22-2008
at 9:31 PM
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Today, July 31st, the author of the Harry Potter book series celebrates her birthday alongside her brainchild, Harry. Happy Birthday to the both of them, and we hope they both have great days!
Richard Griffiths (Uncle Vernon) celebrates his birthday today too. Leave wishes for all of them in the comments!
Posted by
07-30-2008
at 11:25 PM
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Back in June, we told you about the prequel that JK Rowling wrote to support Waterstone's "What's Your Story" charity auction. Jo's story sold to the winning bidder for nearly $50,000
Today, the postcard book that includes stories from Jo and 12 other authors went on sale to the general public. Lo and behold, The Telegraph is reporting that 10,000 copies went on sale at Waterstone's stores, and 10,000 copies were sold by the end of the day! From the article:
"Fans have been desperate to own this limited edition piece of Harry Potter history," said Toby Bourne, Waterstone's head of children's buying. "Pre-orders flooded in from all over the world. Demand was so big that we stopped taking pre-orders to ensure customers had a chance to buy the book in stores."
Posted by
08-07-2008
at 1:40 PM
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UPDATE: A picture of show holding her new award can be seen right here via The Telegraph.
According to a recent report released by BBC News, author J.K. Rowling will receive the Edinburgh Award at a ceremony tonight in Edinburgh, the city where she created the famous Potter series.
"So much has happened to me both professionally and personally since I moved here nearly 15 years ago, that to receive this recognition is particularly meaningful and special," Rowling said.
A panel of judges from the fields of arts, business and science unanimously voted her the 2008 winner.
Congrats to Jo on yet another impressive award!
Posted by Micah
09-19-2008
at 10:36 AM
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Several news sites are reporting this morning that JK Rowling has donated a staggering 1 million pounds (about 2 million US dollars) to the Labour Party. From the BBC:
Ms Rowling said she was motivated by Labour's record on child poverty and opposed a Conservative plan to give tax breaks to married couples.
Her donation will boost Gordon Brown as he tries to calm unrest among party members at Labour's annual conference.
Mr Brown said he was delighted to have the backing of "one of the world's greatest ever authors".
Posted by
09-20-2008
at 03:42 AM
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Taking a break from the endless amount of Half-Blood Prince photos we've seen in the past week, a Flickr user has posted photos of a Stephen Fry/JK Rowling photoshoot. The photos were taken in May 2007 to promote the the UK Potter audiobooks, which Fry narrates.
Thanks to Snitch Seeker for the tip!
Posted by
10-02-2008
at 7:38 PM
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BBC News is reporting this morning that our favorite author will be reading from Tales of Beedle the Bard at a 'Beedle' tea party in Scotland on the same day the book is released in the US and UK:
She will read extracts from one of them at the Beedle tea party at the National Library of Scotland (NLS), hosted by The Children's High Level Group (CHLG).
The party will take place in Edinburgh on Thursday 4 December, the same day as the tale goes on sale in shops.
The National Library of Scotland has borrowed an original copy of the tales from Barry Cunningham, JK Rowling's first editor.
The Scotsman has a quote from Jo where she describes the importance of the Beedle proceeds:
"Hundreds of thousands of vulnerable children in eastern Europe are living in appalling conditions in large, residential institutions," she said. "Contrary to popular belief, fewer than 4% of them are orphans, but are in care because they are considered disabled or their families are poor or from ethnic minorities. The charity is publishing The Tales of Beedle the Bard to raise money to fund our work in helping these children out of institutions and in to loving families or community care homes.
"I hope that The Tales of Beedle the Bard will not only be a welcome present to Harry Potter fans, but an opportunity to give these abandoned children a voice. It will encourage young people across the world to think about those who are less fortunate and help change many young lives for the better."
Posted by
10-20-2008
at 08:46 AM
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The Harry Potter author has contributed to The Birthday Book; a special book created for Prince Charles' 60th birthday. An excerpt of Jo's contribution has been revealed by The Guardian. In it, she discusses Harry's final walk through The Forbidden Forest:
But when Harry takes his last, long walk into the heart of the Dark Forest, he is choosing to accept a burden that fell on him when still a tiny child, in spite of the fact that he never sought the role for which he has been cast, never wanted the scar with which he has been marked. As his mentor, Albus Dumbledore, has tried to make clear to Harry, he could have refused to follow the path marked out for him. In spite of the weight of opinion and expectation that singles him out as the "Chosen One", it is Harry's own will that takes him into the Forest to meet Voldemort, prepared to suffer the fate that he escaped sixteen years before.
The Birthday Book is available for order from Amazon at this link and benefits The Prince's Foundation for Children and the Arts. You can read the whole excerpt right here. Thanks to Twaleah for the tip!
Posted by
11-13-2008
at 7:19 PM
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Posted by
02-02-2009
at 6:23 PM
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Today in Paris, JK Rowling was inducted into France's prestigious "Legion d'honneur" (Legion of Honor), in which the honorary title of "Knight" was bestowed upon her. The event took place in the Elysee presidential palace and France's president Nicolas Sarkozy was there to welcome the author into the Legion.
JK Rowling accepted the award and spoke to those present in French, according to Europe1 (translation below):
Full transcript (translation) of Jo's speech in French can be seen at the "read more" link below, thanks to our translator Clementine.
For pictures of Jo at the event click here, and a video of her appearance can be seen here. (Translation of what she said coming soon).
Congratulations again, Jo!
Posted by
02-03-2009
at 2:33 PM
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In an interview with USA Weekend for an upcoming cover story, author Stephen King spoke about his influence on popular authors such as JK Rowling:
"I think that has some kind of formative influence the same way reading Richard Matheson had an influence on me," King explains. "People always say to me, 'Well, what about H.P. Lovecraft?' And the thing was, you read Lovecraft when you were a kid but I never felt that he was speaking my language. It was chillier than my heart was, and when Matheson started to write about ordinary people and stuff, that was something that I wanted to do.
He also talks about Twilight author Stephenie Meyer, saying that she "can’t write worth a darn." While the comments may surprise Twilight fans, most are probably aware of how Ms. Meyer has said herself that she is not a great writer. Or maybe Mr. King is just upset that Stephenie is too afraid to read his books. Thanks to "Anonymous" for the tip!
Posted by
02-03-2009
at 7:21 PM
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The Scotsman is reporting that Potter author JK Rowling recently visited a Scotland hospital and left them some special art:
Ms Rowling, 43, daubed graffiti on the walls of the Young People's Unit at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital in Morningside, which cares for teenagers with complex psychiatric conditions.
Consultant psychologist Dr Jane Morris said: "She really does spread magic. She's a natural and knows how to talk to young people. And she's extremely cool. She does graffiti on the walls which is probably worth a fortune.
"She's drawn all of us and wrote 'JK Rowling was here'."
You can read the full report right here. Thanks to Mike for the tip!
Posted by
02-21-2009
at 2:12 PM
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Several popular authors, including JK Rowling, will be receiving cheques from the state of Ireland because of their popularity in libraries. As The Times Online reports:
Binchy said many bestselling authors donate their cheques to charity but they remain an important incentive. “It’s only fair that if hundreds of people borrow your book, you get paid,” she said. “It’s especially important for those who don’t get huge sales. When you see that PLR written on an envelope your heart soars because it’s never bad news. It’s confirmation people are reading your books.”
Posted by
03-29-2009
at 1:29 PM
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The Times Online is reporting this evening that the First Lady of the United States will be spending part of her trip in London at a special dinner with author JK Rowling:
Seated on one side of Mrs Obama will be J. K. Rowling, the author; on the other will be Kelly Holmes, the double Olympic gold medallist.
We'll let you know if more details come from the event.
Posted by
03-31-2009
at 6:15 PM
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As we reported yesterday, JK Rowling is attending a dinner with Michelle Obama this evening in relation to the G20 Summit.
One photo has already appeared online, which you can see right here. The Telegraph also has this article, which gives more details about the dinner.
We'll update this post if any other pictures make their way online! Thanks to UHP for the tip.
Posted by
04-01-2009
at 4:51 PM
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UPDATE: The BBC reports that Jo read from Beedle the Bard this evening. You can read the report right here.
In a follow-up to what we reported earlier, we now know that our favorite author will be reading at The Royal Opera House tonight (Thursday) in London. As The Independent reports:
Today, Mrs Obama and the G20 spouses will visit the Royal Opera House for a programme of operatic and ballet extracts. JK Rowling will give a reading during the performance, introduced by the broadcaster Mariella Frostrup.
At least one picture has already appeared online of Jo from the G20 dinner which you can see here. We do not know what Jo will be reading from at the Royal Opera House, but we'll keep you updated!
Posted by
04-02-2009
at 00:44 AM
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Fans may remember that she has played a big role in raising for Multiple Sclerosis research, and today we've learned that Jo has stepped down as patron of MS Society Scotland. This, after she revealed she cannot "in good conscience, continue to be the public face of a charity that is changing beyond recognition from the one with which I have been so proud to be associated."
You can read a longer statement from Jo, as well as a response from MS Society Scotland, at this link.
Posted by
04-08-2009
at 5:38 PM
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Back in December 2007, British television station ITV aired a great documentary looking at JK Rowling's life and the Potter phenomenon.
Those of us in the United States weren't able to see it, but now ABC has announced that they'll be airing the documentary on July 16th! That's just one day after the release of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
You can see a couple video previews for the documentary here and here. We'll be sure to remind you about it again in July - it's definitely worth checking out!
Posted by
04-24-2009
at 4:19 PM
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TIME magazine has released its list of the world's 100 most influential people, and UK prime minister Gordon Brown came in at #2. JK Rowling, a strong supporter of Brown, wrote a piece about him for the magazine:
"Back in the mid-1990s, when he was new labour's brooding, intellectual heavyweight, I was a lone parent struggling to get by. He said he was not interested in stigmatizing the poor but in finding solutions for their predicament. I was tired of hearing government ministers lambaste the likes of me as irresponsible scroungers. I wanted Gordon Brown in charge..."
Thanks to Allie for the tip.
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