'Potter' Kids Take the Stage, Have a Ball at LeakyCon 2011

LeakyCon 2011 had many highlights: Open At The Close, an event inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter just for attendees, early screenings of Deathly Hallows - Part 2, a live LeakyMug with both MuggleCast and PotterCast, as well as tons of wizard rock and appearances by Evanna Lynch, Chris Rankin and Scarlett Byrne.

But for some it was the Potter kids that stole the show. One conference-goer had this to say:

"I loved that they so embodied their characters. Not just playing roles, but in a way it really did feel like they walked out of the movie and into the con."

"Young Snape [Benedict Clarke] was walking around at the ball in a Slytherin tie. Young Sirius [Rohan Gotobed] was wearing a shirt that said 'I spent time in Azkaban'. Rose [Helena Barlow] kept answering questions very diplomatically, in a very Hermione-like way. I couldn't get over it. It really felt as though they WERE the characters, not just actors in a film."

Will Dunn [James Sirius Potter] tweeted: Absolutely loved the signings, and the Q&As, fans were awesome, Melissa Anelli and everyone else did a great job :)

Benedict Clarke added: The Q&A and HP trivia, running on stage and dancing with the other actors at the ball, the Chinese Fireball rollercoaster :)

You can follow all the young Potter stars on Twitter:
Arthur Bowen | Benedict Clarke | Will Dunn | Ryan Turner | Ellie Darcey-Alden | Rohan Gotobed

(SOURCE: MUGGLENET)

Review: 'Dear Mr. Potter' Is A Must-Read As We Near The Final Potter Film Release

The following is a review of Dear Mr. Potter, a book of letters written by Harry Potter fans who reflect on what the series has done for them.

Dear Mr. Potter is a Chicken Soup for the Harry Potter fan's soul. It's a recollection of the fandom over the years and makes you realize how many fans were impacted by the series. The stories are all quite personal, which makes for an emotional read. There's no doubt in my mind that fans will be pleasantly surprised by the truthful stories and powerful messages found on every page!

I happily contributed to the book and a couple other friends did as well. Evanna Lynch wrote an adorable letter to Luna, and it makes you realize how alike the two people really are. She is a true fan of the series just like everyone who reads this book, and it was fantastic seeing her being a part of this compilation.

Melissa Anelli, who I've worked with over the years, shares a very touching story that I'm glad she shared. By reading stories like Melissa's you'll see how everyone has a personal reason why Harry Potter has meant so much to them, and it's truly heartwarming to hear each one.

It's a must-read at this interesting time in the Potter fandom where we're about to experience our final movie release.

You can learn more about Dear Mr. Potter at this link. The book is available for pre-order, and proceeds benefit the Harry Potter Alliance.

(SOURCE: MUGGLENET)