The BBC news reports that “Boy wizard Harry Potter is working his magic by drawing record box office takings across the globe.” Australian witches are seizing on the worldwide Harry Potter craze to lure new recruits, claims one member of the Christian Democratic Party (from news.com.au).

The Times reports today that the second movie “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” will be released on Friday, November 15, 2002. “Warner Brothers has given an early warning to ward off new releases from rival film companies. However, the third Potter film, planned for a 2003 release, may now be delayed a year …read more!

Reader Virginia points us to an interview with Daniel Radcliffe from PBS Online, where he discusses the Masterpiece Theater production of “David Copperfield” and also “Harry Potter.” Ananova reports that the second “Harry Potter” film is being scheduled for a November release. Conjurer Reveals Magical Lessons Of Harry Potter’s World (from Newsday).

“Ocean’s Eleven” has knocked Harry Potter off the top of the US box office charts after a three-week reign. “Harry Potter” pulled in $14.8 million, taking its 24-day total to $239.7 million from moviegoers in the United States and Canada. “Daily Variety reported in its Monday edition that “Harry Potter” earned about $60.1 million from …read more!

GOOD RUMOR: According to our sources, Alyssia Rosiak, a 13 yr old actress from north London has been given the role of Moaning Myrtle. Alyssia who has trained with LAMDA said “I was doing my homework and my dad told me. I screamed and then I cried!” Alyssia has signed a 3 yr contract with …read more!

And again from the Sydney Morning Herald, the opinion that it is “time to get a grip and give Harry the respect he deserves:” No matter what the critics say, the Harry Potter books – and perhaps even the film – are destined to become classics… The best thing about the Potter phenomenon is J.K. …read more!

Financial news from the Sydney Morning Herald: “Today, investors appear to be buying the stock to get a part of a very volatile business: the movie operation. The Internet premium has been supplanted by the Harry Potter premium.” The Providence Journal reports on the newest issue by the British Tourist Authority; maps to take one …read more!

The BBC has posted the preview clip for the “JK Rowling: Harry Potter and Me” special. Thanks to Ana for the link!

Ananova reports that Harry Potter leads to surge in broomstick sales. From mlive.com: Harry Potter charms some Christian critics.

Yet another record broken, this time for ticket sales in New Zealand. Here’s a link to the press release from the BBC regarding the programme mentioned earlier, “JK Rowling: Harry Potter and Me,” showing an air date of Friday 28 December. Set those VCRs!