The initial sales are astonishing. The reviews from the book critics are generally positive. And Harry’s loyal followers are busy… reading.

What is remarkable is that we are witness to the unfolding of a classic. Harry Potter is now the subject of many university classes - and will continue to be read and examined for generations. The legend of J.K. Rowling will grow. From being unemployed, in financial need and with responsibilities of a single mother, she has become a billionaire writer. That is magical.

And what Ms Rowling has shown is that, even in the ‘internet-everything-instant’ age, there is still the wonder of holding a great book in one’s hands and turning the pages. A generation of young Harry Potter readers are busy, resisting a peek at the final pages and falling in love with books, all over again. That is a huge gift that boy wizard will continue to give… and that is magic!

Catherine Forsythe

Tags: harry potter, books, j.k. rowling, readers, magic