Japan’s English magazine Metropolis has an interview with Yuko Matsuoka, the Japanese translator of the Potter series. Order of the Phoenix went on sale in Japan earlier this month. Thanks to Wizard News for the link!

Several TLC readers let us know that Harry Potter was the subject of a recent Pardon My Planet. Thanks to everyone who emailed, and especially Katie for the link.

Several TLC readers have asked why they aren’t seeing updates on our full graphics page. That page is our default, and can be viewed at http://www.the-leaky-cauldron.org. Of course, if you prefer the low-graphics version with the Hogwarts house color schemes, that’s available as well at /indextext.html.

In a effort to raise money for the homeless, author J.K. Rowling has donated a special original miniature book for auction. Charity organization 999club will hold the reception and auction on November 1st at Sotheby’s in London, England. From the information that we received, this is a signed, leather bound manuscript by J.K. Rowling. It …read more!

The Sunday Mail reports that weekend trippers had to go by bus when ScotRail closed down the last train from Mallaig to Fort William for filming of Goblet of Fire. Riders were given rail vouchers and Harry Potter memorabilia in exchange for the inconvenience. Thanks to B. and Wizard News for the link!

The Star Tribune has an article about American edition Potter artist Mary GrandPre that includes a draft of an earlier Harry illustration. Grandpre’s work is being featured at a show at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Thanks to Veritaserum for the link!

“Oh, Harry, don’t you see?” Hermione breathed. “If [Professor Umbridge] could have done one thing to make absolutely sure that every single person in this school will read your interview, it was banning it!” — Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling Each fall since 1982, the American Library Association (ALA) …read more!

Loads of TLC readers have informed us that Mr. King, who has repeatedly praised the Potter series, has (once again) referenced Harry in his recent book, The Dark Tower (book 7) (click to read): “Check out the crate-lid,” Jake said when they joined her. Susannah had set it aside; Jake picked it up and was …read more!

Dan Radcliffe won the Best Junior Achiever award on Regis and Kelly for the second year in a row today. The young actor accepted from the set, and reported that he was sorry he couldn’t be in New York for the awards because “I’m actually about to fight a dragon.” Update: There are already screencaps …read more!

TLC reader Lauren Goodnight, a staff reviewer for AnimeOnDVD.com, attended a performance of the band Harry and the Potters in August and very kindly wrote in with a review and some great pics. Quotage: “There is no greater feeling within the heart of a musician or music lover than when rock ‘n’ roll music breaks …read more!