‘Harry Potter’ fans gather for fun at Civic Center

OCEANSIDE — More than 100 “Harry Potter” fans gathered at the Oceanside Civic Center on July 28 for potion making, Hogwarts quizzes, magic wand construction and other Muggle fun.
A Hogwarts Academy “class schedule” led fans of the “Harry Potter” series written by J. K. Rowling through 10 activity stations themed after the books. Wizard crafts and quizzes on astronomy, herbology and “Harry Potter” trivia put fans to the test.
“The quizzes ask you about ‘Harry Potter,’” Danielya Shands, 9, of Oceanside, said. “I’m not the best ‘Harry Potter’ person, but I’m doing pretty good.”
Upon completion of the tasks, “students” received a diploma and were entertained by a slight of hand magic show.
The library holds a “Harry Potter” fan gettogether upon the release of each movie, said children’s librarian Nancy Carstensen. The recent movie release of “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,” sparked the July 28 event that brought together avid readers and new fans.
“I’ve read all seven books,” said Brad Ulanosky, 12, of Oceanside. Brad said his favorite Potter read is “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.”
Ryjhaun Story, 4, of Oceanside, is a new Harry Potter fan who is just finishing listening to a read aloud of book one in the series, “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.”
“We’re on the very last chapter right now,” said Tabatha Story, Ryjhaun’s mom. “We were in the book store to buy book two and saw the flyer (to the library event).
“He’s 4 years old and starting kindergarten next year,” Story said. “Reading the book and coming to the event really teaches him the concept of books.”
Librarian Nancy Carstensen is excited that the “Harry Potter” series has instilled the love of reading in so many young readers.
“’Harry Potter’ opened up a whole new world
of reading for kids,” Carstensen said. “Now kids love to read for fun.”
The popularity of series has sparked “Harry Potter” literature study groups and literary conventions that Carstensen participates in.
“The ‘Harry Potter’ series has given a new life to children’s literature,” Carstensen said. “I think it will do that for a long time.”
To see video and more pictures from the event, visit www.coastnewsgroup.com.