First off, how did you become a Harry Potter fan?
Back in 1999, when I had been 16, news of a new children’s book that was gaining much popularity and acclaim throughout the book world reached my ears. But I shrugged off suggestions of reading the Harry Potter books from family and friends, and as I so wrongly assumed that the books would be childish, unmoving and full of clichéd storylines. But all that changed, when a younger cousin of mine (a major HP enthusiast) made a simple bet with me. She claimed that reading just the first chapter of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone would be enough to convince me to read all the available books in the series, and thoroughly enjoy them at the same time. I claimed, otherwise. Then, I read the first chapter of the first book… and didn’t care that I had lost the bet. From that point on, I was hooked to Harry Potter.

How are you feeling now that the series is over?
Quiet relieved, actually. Don't get me wrong, I have been a fan over nine years, and no doubt it has been wonderful and overwhelming to have been a part of the whole Harry Potter fandom. However, I felt that a conclusion to the overall story was much needed, after the build-up of several sub-plots that had stretched throughout the first six books. In my opinion, a sense of closure to the story and the characters is quite important to fully appreciate and enjoy the Harry Potter books. Although, a part of me will always regret never being able to read any new adventures of Harry, Ron and Hermione at Hogwarts.

If you could rewrite any part of the series, what would you change?
I would like to change just one small thing. Even though I had always wanted Ginny Weasley to be Harry's love interest in the series, I never liked the way they ended up together in HBP. Harry's romantic awareness of Ginny, in my opinion, felt too abrupt and contrived. The readers know why Harry became interested in Ginny (she's pretty and nice), but they were deprived of the process of how he became interested in her. If I were to rewrite any part of the series, I would have included some one-on-one moments where Harry got to know Ginny a little bit better, before he decided to become romantically interested in her. A light-hearted adventure, a non-consequential ordeal, and/or a private joke between them would have been my strategy to set up a relatively more natural and convincing relationship between them.

In your opinion, who is the most over-rated character?
No one. Some people I know tend to lean towards Harry Potter in this regard, but how can the protagonist possibly be an over-rated character? In his defense, how can the story be told, plots be unfolded, and amazing places be described, if not seen through Harry's eyes? How can the countless emotions in the books be felt if Harry never experienced friendship, love, pain, and hope? I had always believed that Harry Potter, in general, is a well-written character, especially in terms or originality and realism.

Who is the most under-rated?
I thought Remus Lupin's character was a bit under-rated especially in the last few books. His appearance in PoA had made a strong impression on me; he was an excellent teacher, and displayed the much needed wisdom, kindness, and humility. Lupin had become almost a father-figure rather than a teacher to Harry when he had taught him the challenging Patronus Charm to fend off the dementors. It was sad to see Lupin's appearances and involvement diminishing later on in the series, and unfortunately, he never had that kind of fatherly connection with Harry again.

Keeping in mind the encyclopedia that Jo plans to write, besides a main character, whose back story are you most interested in reading about and why?
Definitely, Professor McGonagall's. I have always admired her character in the books. I thoroughly appreciate the fact that she had been a righteous authority figure at Hogwarts, but at times had tended to display a softer side that was kind and considerate. I always wondered whether Professor McGonagall ever had been married, or had children. I would love to know about her past, and her life outside of Hogwarts.

Please describe something in your life (besides your life as a whole) that has been directly affected by Harry Potter, Jo, or both.
Moving to a whole different country for pursuing higher education, and leaving family and friends behind had been quite tough on me. I'm not exaggerating when I say that Harry Potter helped me get through the first few difficult months. Becoming immersed in the world of Harry Potter (through the books and internet) reminded me a little of my old life, and kept my mind occupied enough from sinking into depression.

Anything else you would like to add?
JK Rowling has created a wonderful world, with a brilliant story, and unforgettable characters. The books themselves contain such powerful and touching themes for me: a mother’s love (Lily’s sacrifice), friendship (the trio), being able to recognise the inner-beauty in people like Hagrid and Neville, and standing up against what you believe is wrong (Voldemort and the Death Eaters). I can never thank JK Rowling enough, and would love to have an opportunity to meet her someday. Lastly, I thank Mugglenet, for giving me chance to be fan of the week. Keep up the good work, guys!

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