I think the beauty of good fiction is often in its ability to transform the fantastic into a relevant and meaningful story and message to anyone willing to consider the possibility. With that said, here’s a quote from the latest Harry Potter. I don’t think it spoils anything; but it’s a great quote that mirrors feelings I’ve had in real life

It’s a curious thing Harry, but perhaps those best suited for power are those who have never sought it. Those who, like you, have leadership thrust upon them, and take up the mantle because they must, and find to their own great surprise that they wear it well.

I couldn’t agree more.

More thoughts (including spoilers) hidden under the cloak of invisibility (or by clicking the more link below)

Continue reading →

As I sat on the train today reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, I felt embarrassed. No, not because I was reading what many refer to as a “child’s” book, but because I’m sure my fellow riders would be thinking “He’s been reading that book for 4 weeks now!”. For all of you non-readers, you may think it’s silly, but the readers know who else is reading. We read the book feverishly and unabashedly; except for this time. I did not want this book to end the closer I got to the end, and as it drew to a close, through my enjoyment I felt a little sad. At 38 years of age, I have never read a series of books until now. Never become so familiar with characters on the page, as I had become with these characters.

The book is a great read. It gives the proper weight to the seriousness of the proceedings this time around.

So now that I have finished, I can now return from my self-imposed blog reading exile. Back to reading the blogs of Cyn, Merujo, and Susan. Hell, I haven’t even read my fiancé’s blog.

I hope my fellow bloggers welcome me back.

Theoretically I will be receiving my copy of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows on Saturday at which point I will not be reading blogs or news stories until I finish. Of course this might take some time, but it’s a necessary evil since it seems as if the whole world is out to spoil it for me.

If you go to J.K. Rowling’s website, there’s a puzzle that leads to the title of the next Harry Potter book.

Use the following instructions (from the AP):

If you go to jkrowling.com, click on the eraser and you will be taken to a room – you’ll see a window, a door and a mirror.

In the mirror, you’ll see a hallway. Click on the farthest doorknob and look for the Christmas tree. They click on the center of the door next to the mirror and a wreath appears. Then click on the top of the mirror and you’ll see a garland.

Look for a cobweb next to the door. Click on it, and it will disappear. Now, look at the chimes in the window. Click on the second chime to the right, and hold it down. The chime will turn into the key, which opens the door. Click on the wrapped gift behind the door, then click on it again and figure out the title yourself by playing a game of hangman.

Of course I’ll list the new title – just click the “more” link

Continue reading →