HARRY POTTER - A Window on the Soul of our Culture? (Part 2 Q&A)

J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter series, is a billionaire and one of the richest women in the world. 400 Million copies of her 7 book Potter series have been sold world wide. One media source comments “In an era of videogame consoles, online multiplayer “environments,” and tinier-is-better mobisodes, minisodes and webisodes, she got people to tote around big, old-fashioned, printed-on-paper books as if they were the hottest new entertainment devices on the planet.” (Entertainment Weekly Magazine) Why has J.K.Rowling had such an impact? What does it say about our generation that the Harry Potter series has swept our planet, selling more copies, and generating more interest and media ‘swirl’, than any other writer in memory? Why has this writing touched a nerve in our time, like no other? What does it say about us? Looking closely at this 7 book series, is like looking in the mirror of our culture. It may tell us more than we ever wanted to know – about our generation!! Matthew Conley is a grade 12 student, and President of the Honour Society at L.C.I. He has reviewed a number of books for the Lethbridge Herald over the past 5 years, and been active in a number of community issues. Terry Shillington is one of the clergy at McKillop United Church. He is presently part of a national United Church resource team for “Emerging Spirit”, a program of outreach to 30-45 Year olds., and has a special interest in the contemporary culture of youth and young adults. Moderator – Ian McKenna Cost - $10.00