Ahmed Fadl Shablool of Egypt speculates as to the possible eastern influences of Harry Potter. While we recognize that there are a few translation misspellings in this article, it’s still an intereresting read.

Thanks to Bill for pointing out this new set report at PercyWeasley.com.

Dillion the Armadillo is currently starring at the Edinburgh Zoo in an attraction called ‘Animal Antics’. Thanks to Ralph for the link!

The Syracuse Post Standard has an article on Tom Felton’s participation in the St. Lawrence International Junior Carp Tournament.

Griffith University in Queensland, Australia will host Harry Potter Discussion Day on September 6th. Thanks to Anna-Louise for the link!

The Leaky Cauldron would like to wish Rupert Grint a very enthusiastic Happy 15th Birthday!

Kimberly Noles of Oklahoma State University thinks Americanizing the Harry Potter series was a missed opportunity: Most adults know that other countries spell words differently, but children don’t. Seeing the words like colour, favourite and honour spelled differently opens the lines of communication for discussion about other cultures and why they do things differently. Thanks …read more!

Susan King of the L.A. Times offers a short piece on our favorite pony-tailed dad, Jason Issacs.

NPR has an audio clip on Tom Felton’s entry into the Lawrence International Junior Carp Tournament. Thanks to Joya for the link!

From the American Prospect: Although some reviewers have inexplicably branded the books “monoculturalistic” and even “sexist,” Rowling has admitted to being “left wing” personally and hoped that “every reader will bring his own agenda to the book.” Rowling has an enormous audience — and probably more U.S. supporters than any one of the current Democratic …read more!