GILROY
– Wizard lovers of all ages can step into the world of Harry
Potter as the Wize Owl Book store celebrates the release of J.K.
Rowling’s fifth book,
”
Harry Potter and the order of the Phoenix,
”
tonight.
GILROY – Wizard lovers of all ages can step into the world of Harry Potter as the Wize Owl Book store celebrates the release of J.K. Rowling’s fifth book, “Harry Potter and the order of the Phoenix,” tonight.
Inspired by muggle book release parties planned across the United States as well as a countdown in New York’s Time Square, Wize Owl Owner Michele Campbell wants to bring this opportunity to fans in Gilroy.
“It’s the most exciting release I’ve seen so far,” she said. “The writer is so imaginative. It’s unlike any books previously written. There’s always new and exiting things.”
And with 8.5 million copies produced, it’s the largest first printing.
Campbell is not allowed to open the boxes until 12:01 a.m. Saturday and doesn’t plan on breaking code for a sneak peak. Although those attending the release party are anxious to get their hands on the rumored 870-page book, they will need to rest up before the event, which lasts from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m.
The Wize Owl ordered 250 copies of the hardcover book. More than 150 copies have been reserved so far and the bookstore is expecting to sell out by the weekend or early next week. Campbell expects about 50 people to attend the book release party, and those who reserved copies through Scholastic book fairs can also pick them up at the bookstore.
Guests will have plenty to keep them entertained until the official release. The store will be divided into four sections, representing the four houses, Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw of Hogwarts, where there will be various activities. People can test their knowledge of wizard facts or kick back and watch the most recent Harry Potter movie.
In order to get into the mood, some guests plan on coming in pajamas or even full wizard costumes.
“The response has been great,” Campbell said. For those who want to get a little more decked out in Potter paraphernalia, there will be plenty of merchandise for sale including scarves, Nimbus 2000 broomsticks, Harry Potter wands and character dolls.
And no Harry Potter event is complete without refreshments such as cockroach snacks, kettle cakes, chocolate dipped wands, Butterbeer and dragon snot.
The book sells for $29.95, and Campbell recommends getting orders in early.
The Wize Owl is located at the corner of First Street and Santa Teresa Boulevard. Call 848-9090 to reserve a copy.
