After the final film was released in July 2011, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, fans around the world were heartbroken at the end of an era. Many people have grown up with the series, either through the novels or the movies. While many people are unhappy because there will be no new books or movies, true fans know that Harry Potter is not going anywhere. Rowling’s novels have influenced readers of all ages: children, parents, and even grandparents.
Since the release of the Deathly Hallows Part 2, J.K. Rowling has opened up a new virtual website that allows fans to engage in reading and activities that deal with the series. Rowling teamed up with Sony to create “Pottermore” which features additional thoughts on the series from the mind of J.K. Rowling. Fans are able to cast spells, create potions, and even get sorted into one of the four houses of Hogwarts (Ravenclaw, Slytherin, Hufflepuff or Gryffindor). The website has been very well received by fans, although it did not receive the large anticipation that came along with the books or movies. “Pottermore” is still up and running, but only the first three books have been released.
Another part of the franchise that will live on is the Harry Potter theme park. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios in Florida was officially announced in May of 2007 and finally opened in June of 2010. The park features several rides and re-creations of different places that Harry visits throughout the novels including Hogsmeade, a wizarding village, the Hogwarts Express, and the Hogwarts castle itself. There is also many shops and restaurants that are featured in the films and books including Ollivander’s wand shop, Honeydukes, Zonko’s Joke Shop, The Three Broomsticks, and Hog’s head. Visitors can enjoy a butter beer or pick out a wand. The theme park continues to draw in fans from around the world and will be an attraction for many years to come.
Although the series is complete, fans are just as loyal as ever. People are very appreciative of J.K. Rowling and the world she has created. She has made a very strong impact on many peoples’ lives and will continue to amaze readers as more and more people read Harry Potter. As she once said herself “Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home.”
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