Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince

[meganth]

Who else is getting all geeked up for next month? Only a few more weeks!!!

Anybody heard any good gossip about it lately? I've been so busy i haven't been able to check the net for much info.

[alliannie]

Me, Me I am so excited!! I cant wait for it to come out. You probably wont see me on here when it comes out because I will just be reading :D ! I havent found out much either though.

[Pamela]

Ooh Ooh I can hardly wait!!! I've preordered a copy, but it turns out that I'm going to be out of town when it gets delivered!! I think I may have to buy a copy of it on the road so that I can start reading it right away!

[bookworm]

Mrs. Pamela, I did that when OotP came out...I had happily pre-ordered my copy to be delivered when it came out, then I found out I'd be away on business. I had a 2nd copy delivered to the hotel where I was staying--I figured for $20, I deserved it. I gave the extra to the local library. :)

This time, I'll have a friend visiting when HBP is released! As happy as I'll be to see said friend, I keep thinking "but I won't be able to be anti-social and read my book :( ".

Pathetic, I know.

[JRose]

I am so excited! My MIL pre-ordered it for me as my birthday present. I cannot wait to get it! :D

[jenahdawn]

Oh, I solved my "oot" problem.....I am having mine shipped to one of the local girls here. Told her she could even read it, as long as she was done with it when I got home!

[Sherb]

Me!Me!Me!Too!

Have had the book pre-ordered since around Christmas. I can't wait to get it. DH is looking forward to it as well but he's studying for the bar exam and the book is released the week before the exam. I'll have to hide it from him until he's taken the test. hee hee :D

[camberne]

Because I am such a wonderful and loving mother, I pre-ordered it and am having it sent to the summer house where my son will be.

Any thoughts on who the "half blood prince" is??? My son's theory is that it's Hagrid, since he's half human, half giant. Since I like Hagrid, I hope he's right!!

[scarlett]

I'm in the middle of re-reading all of the books. I'm partway through book 3 right now. I re-read all of the books leading up to OotP too. I like having the whole story fresh in my mind when I start the new one. Then after I finish the new one, I'll probably re-read them all again, so I can connect everything in the new one with things that happened prior. I'm such a dork :) I'll be spending my whole summer reading Harry Potter.

[Pamela]

Scarlett, thats what I like to do too!

[tlew12778]

OMg I such a HP freak! I am constantly on mugglenet.com reading about the new book. I have posted this list on WC but here is an updated one:

PLEASE READ THIS LIST BEFORE POSTING IN THIS THREAD

The most recent new and improved list

INITIAL CRITERIA FOR TESTING CANDIDATE PLAUSIBILITY:
1. Are they male?
2. Are they half blood (Because of the way that the title is translated into other languages, we agree that the Prince IS a half blood rather than a Prince OF the half bloods. We also agree that a half-blood is anyone with partial wizard blood and partial muggle blood)?
3. How could they be a prince?
4. Did they appear in book 2 OR could they have reasonably been worked into the plot?
More:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Quote:
Originally Posted by JKR Website, FAQ Section

In what way is 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince' related to 'Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets'?
I have been engulfed by an avalanche of questions on the subject of 'Prince' having once been a title of 'Chamber'.

'The Half-Blood Prince' might be described as a strand of the overall plot. That strand could be used in a whole variety of ways and back in 1997 I considered weaving it into the story of 'Chamber'.

The link I mentioned between books two and six does not, in fact, relate to the 'Half-Blood Prince' (because there is no trace left of the HBP storyline in 'Chamber'.) Rather, it relates to a discovery Harry made in 'Chamber' that foreshadows something that he finds out in 'Prince'.

5. Is there a storyline plot for them?

ELIMINATED (Alphabetized by Last Name)
• Bloody Baron: KNOWN TO BE BARON NOT PRINCE
• Regulus Black --- Known to be Pure-blood. Per OotP. Also confirmed dead and not coming back by JKR
• Sirius Black --- Known to be Pure-blood. Per OotP
• Colin Creevey - Known to be Muggle born per CoS
• Dennis Creevey - Known to be Muggle born per CoS
• Crookshanks - Not animagus per JKR site
• Dobby - Seems highly unlikely to be half blood of any kind
• Dudley Dursley - Per Edinburgh "He's just Dudley", Dursley's not to appear much in HBP
• Sir Nicholas de Mimsy: KNOWN TO BE KNIGHT NOT PRINCE
• Nicholas Flamel -

Dead per JKR - seems unlikely to be brought back:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote:
Originally Posted by JKR's Official Website, Rumors Section
Flamel has now died; Dumbledore explained in ‘Philosopher’s Stone’ that his old friend was going to choose death rather than allow his stone to fall into the wrong hands.




• Justin Finch Fletchley: NOT POSSIBLE. MUGGLE BORN PER JKR.
• Filius Flitwick - - Flitwick's story will not be told per JKR site
• Fat Friar: KNOWN TO BE FRIAR - UNLIKELY TO ALSO BE PRINCE
• Firenze: Pure centaur. Centaurs are not part human per Fantastic Beasts.
• Grawp: Pure giant - no human
• Rubeus Hagrid: JKR confirmed he is not Prince
• Lee Jordan – generally felt as not possible
• Victor Krum --- per JKR, March 2004: "You will see Krum again, though not soon."
• Gilderoy Lockhart --- generally felt as too ludicrous, per unconfirmed Edinburgh report will not apear in future books.
• Neville Longbottom --- Known to be Pure-blood. Per CoS and OotP
• Ernie MacMillan -- Pure blood per JKR .
• Draco Malfoy --- NOT POSSIBLE PER JKR WEBSITE - SAYS HE IS A PUREBLOOD
• Theodore Nott --- NOT POSSIBLE PER JKR WEBSITE - SAYS HE IS A PUREBLOOD
• Peter Pettigrew--- Could not have appeared prior to end of PoA
• Harry Potter --- NOT POSSIBLE PER JKR WEBSITE
• James Potter --- Harry would also be Prince; Highly likely that he is pureblood
• Tom Riddle--- NOT POSSIBLE PER JKR WEBSITE
• Salazar Slytherin ---
Pure Blood per OotP:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 11 - For instance, Slytherin took only pure-blood wizards of great cunning just like him



• Dean Thomas - - Dean's story will not be told per JKR site
• Lord Voldemort --- NOT POSSIBLE PER JKR WEBSITE
• Lord Voldemort's SON --- JKR has confirmed that Voldemort has no children.
• Weasley Males --- Known to be Pure Blood
I need to split this post as it's too long.

[tlew12778]

Part 2

THE CANDIDATES (Alphabetized by Last Name)

NEW CHARACTER
Pros: Late in the series to reveal this about a character we already know; all book titles so far have been about someone/thing new
Cons: It was a possible title for Book 2 - prince may have appeared/mentioned in CoS; seems late in the game for significant new characters
DADA Teacher
Other New Teacher
New Minister of Magic
New Death Eater - CON: Death Eaters not introduced in CoS
New Student
McLaggan - CON: Mentioned in passing at Edinburgh, unlikely to be important
New OotP member- CON: OotP not introduced in CoS
Heir of Grffindor
Historical Character
Keeper of the Hall of Prophecy
Egyptian Character

BASIL

Who is Basil?:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Basil is first mentioned on p.75, Am.ed. trade pb (Beginning of Ch. 7):

Quote:
Originally Posted by GoF
...his colleage [wore], a kilt and poncho.
"Morning, Basil," said Mr. Weasley, picking up the boot and handing it to the kilted wizard, who threw it into a large box of used Portkeys beside him; Harry could see.....

"Hello there, Arthur," said Basil wearily. "Not on duty, eh? It's all right for some...We've been here all night...You'd better get out of the way, we've got a big party coming in from the Black Forest at five-fifteen. Hang on, I'll find your campsite...Weasley...Weasley..." He consulted his parchment list......

"Thanks, Basil," said Mr. Weasley, and he beckoned everyone to follow him.

We see him as the Weasley party leaves (Beginning of Ch. 10):

Quote:
Originally Posted by GoF
...they approached the spot where the Portkeys lay, and when they reached it, they found a great number of witches and wizards gathered around Basil, the keeper of the Portkeys, all clamoring to get away from the campsite as quickly as possible. Mr. Weasley had a hurried conversation with Basil; they joined the queue, and were able to take an old rubber tire back to Stoatshead Hill before the sun had really risen.


Most intriguing may be the fact that he is "keeper of the Portkeys" since we know Hagrid called himself "Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts."
Pros: Interesting description. Sounds like he has some authority.
Cons: May just be Ministry official. Not much is known about him.

MICHAEL CORNER
Pros: Known Half Blood (See list below), DA member
Cons: Not much to go on/not much known about him.

CARADOC DEARBORN
Pros: Caradoc was the name of a prince, "dear born" could mean well born as in royal
Cons: Presumed dead, but this may be a ruse

ALBUS DUMBLEDORE
Pros: we know little about his background; referred to as "champion of commoners, of Mudbloods and Muggles" by Voldemort in GoF; very similar character to Merlin, who was Prince of Enchanters; Appears on three of the four covers.
Cons: He already has a large role; parents are most likely dead so he would be king not prince (although not necessarily - some princes never become king),; Aberforth would also be Prince

FELIX FELICES
Pros: Chapter Fourteen Title - Must be important
Cons: May not even be a person.

ARGUS FILCH
Pros: we learn a bit about his past in CoS; could be the one who's magic comes "late in life"; the only one who stays at Hogwarts year round - could be hiding out Per JKR one grandparent could be muggle and person would still be considered a half blood. Per JKR site, squibs only need to have ONE magical parent.
Cons: Filch is a squib, meaning his parents are magical, so not half-blood

SEAMUS FINNIGAN
Pros: he is a half-blood (per PS/SS); being from Ireland, may have wizarding royalty there... either way very little is known about him
Cons: He is an established minor character; having a student prince would upstage Harry

MUNDUNGUS FLETCHER
Pros: We are never told of his heritage in the text; he is mentioned in passing in CoS; JK might spring something totally unexpected at us.
Cons: Dung doesn't act very princely; it doesn't seem like there will be a plot for him in future books; according to JKR, he already has "burst onto the stage as a full character"

ANTHONY GOLDSTEIN
Pros: Known Half Blood (See list below), DA member
Cons: Not much to go on/not much known about him.


GRINDLEWALD
Pros: Could have been fit into CoS, may be in Azkaban (defeated, not killed),

More:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


1. Grindelwald was mentioned in SS/PS. We know that many things/people mentioned briefly in SS?/PS have gone on to far greater importance.

2. We know that Tom Riddle was 15 in 1942 (fifty years previous to CoS). Therefore he graduated from Hogwarts in 1944. Gindlewald was defeated in 1945 giving them a year of overlap.

3. We know that Tom Riddle transformed himself into Voldemort after he left Hogwarts. We also know that Hogwarts does not teach the Dark Arts. Therefore it makes sense taht he would have had a mentor.

4. We know that Voldemort fears Dumbledore. While there are many reason why this would be so this fear would make a lot of sense if Dumbledore had defeated his mentor.

5.Since CoS focues on Tom Riddle, it is easy to see how Grindlewald could have been fit into the book if in fact he was Tom's mentor.

6. Since Grindlewald was defeated not killed he may still be alive and held in Azkaban. If so he may re-appear in HBP. This may be one of the reasons why he was moved to Book Six because JKR didn't want anyone to escape prior to PoA and she realized he could have a greater scope in Book 6.


Cons: Not really much to go on.

GODRIC GRYFFINDOR
Pros: ComicBookWorm's Definitive Argument. also...
there won't be any prequels/sequels, and there is still a lot more to know about the founders' history; the sword in the hat could be the "discovery" JKR is referring to, ; Dumbledore and Harry appear to be looking into a Pensieve in the American version. This could lend credence to the idea that it's an historical character.
Cons: Side-argument as to whether Harry is his heir; too much past-focussed and not forward-moving for the story; he is dead; he is most likely a pure-blood, it's unlikely SS would have befriended a half-blood; after releasing the title and saying it wasn't Harry or Voldemort, JKR said she wouldn't say anything more about the subject until the book is published - meaning the "old lion" excerpt is not likely to be describing the HBP; JKR also said that the HBP storyline and the "discovery" that connects books 2 and 6 are not related and says many times that there is "no trace" of the HBP storyline left in CoS; Gryffindor has been mentioned several times but his royalty has never been referred to.

[tlew12778]

Part 3
REMUS LUPIN
Pros:
Pro List by Elf and Loup Garou:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

--According to mythology Remus was a Prince of Rome. We know JKR is drawing from the wolf aspect of this myth, but she could also be incorporating the concept of royalty in relation to Remus Lupin via his name.

--Dumbledore’s full name is Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore. The name Wulfric means “wolf power” insinuating that the wolf of the story, Remus Lupin, will somehow come into power. The name Brian means “high and noble, perhaps defining the type of power the wolf will have and further suggesting that Remus is indeed the HBP. Note the similarity in origin of the names Wulfric and Godric implying a possible connection between Remus and Gryffindor.

--Gilderoy Lockhart and Remus Lupin, appearing in back to back books, are deliberately presented as opposites to one another. The name “Gilderoy” means “golden king”, however something that is gilded is not truly gold, but only plated or made to look like gold. This certainly fits with the fact that Lockhart is a complete fraud. In other words, we are being told that Gilderoy is not a king at all. So if Lockhart’s name tells us that he is not the true royal figure, then it stands to reason that the person most opposite to him is.

Lockhart’s arrogant pride and constant bragging are a direct contrast to Lupin’s modesty. Gilderoy’s frivolous clothing and preoccupation with his appearance are the reverse of Lupin’s shabbiness. While Lockhart is rich and famous due to a willingness to swindle people and not actually accomplish any of the things he claims he has done, Lupin lives a life of poverty in spite of his skills and his desire to work. The public embraces Lockhart as a celebrity and allows itself to be deceived by his flashy appearance. Meanwhile society shuns Lupin because they are blinded by prejudice. Lockhart is by far the least capable DADA teacher, seeming to be one step up from a squib, while Remus is without question the most skilled defence teacher. Gilderoy uses memory charms to destroy the memories of anyone who can reveal his true ineptness and even attempts to do this to Harry, but in contrast Remus connects Harry to his memories and the past, by teaching him how to conjure a Patronus and explaining much about Harry’s father. Lockhart claims that he could have played Seeker on the national Quidditch squad and offers to give Harry private lessons, when really we can assume that this is another tall tale. He egotistically claims to be an expert at everything. Contrary to this, Harry has to beg Remus for anti-Dementor lessons and Remus shows true humility in stating that he is not an expert on Dementors, even though we know he has knowledge and skills concerning fighting these foul creatures.

It is through Lockhart that we receive an initial view of werewolves, as tainted as this view may be. His lesson on the Wagga Wagga werewolf is likely meant to prepare us for the arrival of the Lupin in the next book. In other words, the phony king paves the way for the true prince of the story.

--King Richard the Lion-hearted, whose shield was red & gold and depicted three lions (possible Gryffindor connection), was often referred to as the Absent King because he spent much of his reign away from Britain. One of the big mysteries of the books concerns Lupin’s absences—Where was he for the 12 years after James and Lily died? Where was he during GoF? Where does he go when completing mysterious missions for the order? King Richard took part in the Third Crusade, while Lupin is introduced in the third book of the series. In many tales, Richard returns to England disguised as a pauper, much like Lupin’s shabby appearance, and is later revealed to be the King. Richard was often said to be a light to his people, fitting with the imagery of Remus conjuring flames in his hand, thus lighting the darkness of the Hogwarts Express during the Dementor attack. King Richard died of an infection after being pierced in the shoulder with an arrow. Similarly, Lupin was bitten and his lycanthropy is an infection that is slowly wearing away at him.

--Remus Lupin can be connected to Apollo via wolf imagery, as one of Apollo’s names was Apollo Lykeios, the Greek for wolf. This is where the term lycanthropy is derived from. Apollo was also the god of shepherds and was said to protect sheep from the wolves. It sounds contradictory that he would actually protect sheep from the wolves that are sacred to him, but this fits nicely with Lupin's character as well. Lupin recognizes that he can be dangerous, thus he leaves Hogwarts in order to protect the children.

In ancient myth both the phoenix and griffin are connected to Apollo. Apollo was the god of the sun and it is said that he would stop his chariot to listen to the song of the phoenix. In some legends the phoenix was said to build its nest in a scared willow tree, perhaps connecting to the Whomping Willow, which was planted because of Lupin. Keeping in mind Remus is named for a Roman prince, the phoenix is considered to be a symbol of Rome, the eternal city. Remus can also be connected to phoenix imagery through the flames he conjures in his bare palm on the train. These details link Remus to Fawkes, who is thought to have once belonged to Godric Gryffindor himself.

It is said that the griffin pulled Apollo's chariot and also that he rode one. This could be seen as a connection between Godric, represented by the griffin and Lupin, represented by Apollo. The griffin pulls the chariot therefore it could be symbolic of Godric Gryffindor as Remus Lupin's predecessor.

Apollo destroyed the serpent at Delphi. The snake tormented the nearby villages and kept guard of the Sybill who made prophecies. It is a possibility that the HBP will restore peace to the wizard world, which will likely entail destroying the “serpent”. Note that Lupin and Sybill Trelawney are introduced at the same point in the series.

Apollo is thought to be the legendary precursor to King Arthur. Some scholars believe that Stonehenge, the birthplace of many Arthurian legends, was actually built to serve as a temple to the sun god Apollo. The phoenix, a symbol of resurrection, is connected to Arthur as well. Glastonbury Tor (Avalon) is said to be the depiction of a rising phoenix with its wings outstretched. The bird’s neck is the Tor tower and its head is said to drink from the Chalice Well (a well with red water said to be related to the grail). The phoenix symbol at Glastonbury represents the transformed “future king” who is Arthur. Legends say that King Arthur (the once and future king) will return one day to usher in a golden era of peace.

The traits of Gryffindor House are bravery and chivalry, suggesting that JKR is incorporating images of knighthood and even Arthurian legend. Lupin’s connections to Apollo, phoenix imagery and thus Gryffindor suggest that he could be the return of Gryffindor himself, thus following the concept of the “once and future king”. Further proof of this can be found by comparing descriptions of the Sorting Hat and Lupin, which are very similar, repeatedly employing such words as shabby and patched. The Sorting Hat was a gift from Gryffindor to the school, essentially a representation of him in the present, as Lupin himself might be.

Dumbledore's Patronus, the form that represents his hope, is a phoenix, the image of rebirth and regeneration. Perhaps this indicates that Dumbledore was awaiting the rebirth of the king/prince, surely an idea that would bring him hope.

Many people believe that Arthur was of Romano-British heritage. His legends are a combination of celtic mysticism, Christianity and Roman codes of honour. Again the connection to Rome/Remus.

Lucius Malfoy is apprehended in the DoM directly after duelling with Lupin, suggesting Lupin is responsible for defeating him. Similarly one of Arthur's enemies was Lucius Hiberius, a Roman general. According to some stories, Lucius Hiberius demanded that Arthur pay a tribute and return France/Gaul to Rome. Arthur sent messengers back saying that he would pay the tribute with Lucius Hiberius' dead body. The Malfoys live in Wiltshire, where Stonehenge (possibly the temple to the sun god Apollo, the precursor to Arthur) is located.



Cons:
JKR quotes seem to indicate he is not HBP:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote:
Originally Posted by JK Rowling's World Book Day Chat
Siriusstar: Is Remus a pureblood?
JK Rowling replies -> Half blood.

Quote:
Originally Posted by cBBC Newsround
Now the future. Lupin's going to come back in book five isn't he?
JKR: You'll see Lupin again in five yeah, yeah - do you like Lupin?

Oh yes, he's my favourite.
JKR: Yeah and me. I always looked forward to writing book three because of Professor Lupin, I love him. You see a lot of old characters in book five. I'm not even going to try and tell you what happens in book five, I'm just recovering from the stress of book four.


Quote:
Originally Posted by Larry King Live
, CNNKING: Do you know, J.K., where you're going?

ROWLING: Yes.

KING: You do? You plot it out?

ROWLING: Yes, I spent five years -- it was five years before -- between having that idea and finishing the first book and during those five years I was planning the whole seven book series, so it's already written in stone. That's how it's going to happen.

If Remus Lupin was "planned" for Book 3, Jo wouldn't have even considered having him appear in Book 2 as the HBP...

[tlew12778]

Part 4 (Final part!)
Quote:
Originally Posted by Edinburgh Book Festival
How do you think up the names of the books?

Sometimes it was really easy and the title came naturally out of the plot. Sometimes it was a bit of a struggle. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets had different titles. In fact, as everyone now knows, it was once called Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, but then I removed a whole storyline that did not work at all. It gave too much information too early, so I pulled it out and it became a major part, but not the only part, of book six. There is no trace of that storyline left in Chamber of Secrets. People have been speculating that book six is a spinoff of book two, but it is not.

STURGIS PODMORE
Pros: Could meet desription on JKR website, member of original OotP, relation to nobility (Sir Properly Decapitated Podmore)
Cons: long stretch from knight to Prince, falls for Imperius curse by Death Eaters, desciption might not be HBP

KINGSLEY SHACKLEBOLT
Pros: Conducts himself nobly, KINGsley
Cons: No real objections so far.

SEVERUS SNAPE
Pros: His character obviously has a lot in store; we don't know for sure if he is a pureblood; Potions books on British Adult cover.
Cons:
He most likely is a pureblood::

Regarding Snape being the HBP, JKR has just about told us he is a pureblood. Here is her quote on him at the Edinburgh Book Festival:

Quote:
Originally Posted by JKR
is he a pure blood wizard?
Snape’s ancestry is hinted at. He was a Death Eater, so clearly he is no Muggle born, because Muggle borns are not allowed to be Death Eaters, except in rare circumstances. You have some information about his ancestry there.

Well the the only hint we have, other than his being head of Slytherin, is the time he insulted Lily as a mudblood. So from that hint we can assume he is pureblood.

THE WIZARD :
Pros: It says he is in his user title. He IS a wizard,
Cons: No evidence for his existence in the canon

TREVOR THE TOAD:
Pros: It's definitely unexpected

More:
I retract my statement about my doubts about Trevor. I think he is a very possible and probable candidate now after having had a quick flick through PS and (by chance) opened a Trevor excerpt on book 4.

Below is further support of Ikuko's post in regards to Trevor.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ikuko
1. We know that uncle Archibald has given Trevor to Neville, but where did he get it? it was never said ther Trevor was bought.

Actually, Neville told them that Uncle Algie bought Trevor when he was 8, after he showed some skills for magic. Pg. 93, PS, hardcover Bloomsbury:

Quote:
...nothing happened until I was eight...I bounced all the way down the garden and into the road...Great-uncle Algie was so pleased he bought me my toad

So he hasn't lived in the family for generations.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ikuko
I see it likely that some bitter pure-blood would transfigure the child into something, possibly a toad, and make it "permanently sticking"

Yep, can happen as Moody did this to Malfoy in GoF. I'm not sure a "sticking charm" is necessary to keep it permanent as McGonagall had to use her wand to change Malfoy back to normal (pg.182, paperback, Bloomsbury). If she hadn't, I think he'd have stayed that way unless there is a time-effect we don't know about.
2. In PS, Neville's toad is always lost. I think JK has had us to believe that it's because of Neville's forgetfulness that Trevor always goes missing but if you look at other people's pets like Crookshanks, Scabbers*, Hedwig, Mrs. Norris (I guess you could include Fang and Fawkes here too) they're always faithfully beside their owner. From pg. 198:

Quote:
Neville appeared from behind an armchair, clutching Trevor the toad, who looked as though he'd been making another bid for freedom

Making a bid for freedom? Why would a pet do this? Because he's a transfigured person who is desperately trying to find someone to transfigure him back to normal! We don't know if Trevor gets lost when Neville's at home but we know he goes missing at school. Maybe it has to be a specific person to be able to transfigure him, maybe Dumbledore? Could he be trying to get away to find Dumbledore and somehow communicate his trapped status?

If Dumbledore has nothing to do with it, I think it is signficant that he's always getting "lost".
Note that while we don't see Trevor's whereabouts questioned in CoS or PoA, that doesn't necesarily mean it stopped happening.

3. On pg.97, PoA, (hardcover Bloomsbury) Snape makes Trevor drink a Shrinking Solution potion which fortunately turns him into a tadpole instead of poisoning him.

It could be argued that he'd turn into a person if he really was the HBP but keep in mind it was a "Shrinking Solution". Technically, I think Trevor should have turned into a very small toad instead of revert back to tadpole form as this implies some sort of time disposition (like the guy in OotP where his head changed from a baby to that of an adult's) but this can be overlooked.

It's interesting that Trevor was brought up at this point. I personally believe that it's there to throw us off the scent because if he turns into a tadpole, surely he is nothing but a toad. It wasn't explicitly stated whether other students' pets were present but I'm assuming they were so that their Shrinking potion could be tested.

We know Snape picks on Neville a lot but doesn't he hate Harry more?

4. This doesn't seem overly significant but I thought it was interesting that Trevor was present when they Harry and Hermione were practicing the Summoning Charm in GoF.

Quote:
At two-o'clock in the morning, Harry stood near the fire-place, surrounded by heaps of objects - books, quills, several upturned chairs, an old set of Gobstones and Neville's toad, Trevor.

So there you have it! It all seems to tie up neatly with Ikuko's statement of how a transfigured "prince would be lost, royalty forgotten and unable to die at a proper time as it was not a natural toad".

Trevor hardly gets a mention in CoS (if at all) which I don't believe is important. We all know that JK is very subtle.

*I know he was Peter but he he seemed to behave like a magical pet as he always stuck around and he did bite Goyle once.

EDIT 1: Oh, and for those of you who don't think JK will use this scenario again - is this her intention? Very well could be. At least, it's one of a few sure ways to make sure we don't bark up the right tree.
See Ikuko's post for other repetitive scenarios.

EDIT 2: In OoTP, pg. 168 Trevor still shows signs of trying to get away:

Quote:
...they met Neville Longbottom, his round face shining with the effort of pulling his trunk along and
maintaining a one-handed grip on his struggling toad, Trevor

There are a few more references to a struggling Trevor in that scene.

EDIT 3: In PS and GoF there are references to transfiguring people into toads.

Quote:
...if he really was a wizard why hadn't they been turned into warty toads every time they'd tried to lock him in his cupboard? (PS, pg. 47)

Quote:
"Imagine if Moody turned Snape into a turned toad" said Ron (GoF, pg.185)


EDIT 4: I sure hope this is my last edit as this is getting way too long. I forgot to mention that Trevor being a transigured person could easily be GG or a new character we haven't seen yet.

EDIT 5: God, just when I thought I had no more to add. The recent "Trevor the Toad" editorial brought this to my attention of how something that Harry learns in CoS could foreshadow HBP. It is the mandrakes. A rather long scene was dedicated to the Mandrakes in CoS also but what's interesting is this quote and how it was said verbatim:

Quote:
"Mandrake, or Mandragora, is a powerful restorative," said Hermione, sounding as usual as though she had swallowed the textbook. "It is used to return people who have been transfigured or cursed to their original state." Pg. 7 CoS

The fact that it was verbatim isn't that important but what we can gleen from this is that Harry learns early on of how people can be "transfigured" and how to restore them.
This could be that tiny link between CoS and HBP.

Cons: JKR unlikely to use same plot twist twice (aka Scabbers/Pettigrew)

BLAISE ZABINI
Pros: Per Edinburgh - we will see more of him. He could finally be a good Slytherin
Cons: having a student prince would upstage Harry

NOT A PRINCE AT ALL
May not be literal, but a nickname.
This option may be contradicted by the Germanic translations. :

Quote:
Originally Posted by ikuko
For example, slavic languages, and I think Hebrew and Greek. For example, in Russian it sounds like "Printz-polukrovka", and it does not have any other meaning than "a son of a king who is a half-blood" (slavic languages have a very detailed terminology for all degrees of royalty, and there is no way of understanding "polukrovka" as "of half-bloods", only as "half-blood himself"). There is an occasional use of word "prince" in a sarcastic sense ("you sit there like some prince"; or "what, you wait for some prince to come and marry you?") However, in this sarcastic sense it is usually pronounced as "pryns", not "printz"; it is never used on its own, only in a mocking sentence; and finally, it STILL implies, actually, a son of a king . Besides, sarcastic meaning does not go with the word "prince" used in titles of most languages of Germanic language group.

BECOMES A PRINCE IN BOOK SIX:
He may not be a prince at the start of the Book.
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF BLOOD PRINCE
Sorry if the formatting is messed up. This is the original thread (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=2505873#post2505873).

[scarlett]

Interesting stuff tlew12778. I'm a little surprised to not see Mark Evans listed as a possible candidate. Mark Evans was mentioned only in passing in OotP, but Evans is Lily Potter's maiden name, so it is possible he could be related to Harry and be a half-blood. I would not be surprised at all if he turns up at Hogwarts in book 6 (he was 10 in book 5). The con to this is that Minister Fudge says that there aren't any other wizards in Harry's neighborhood. Personally, I think Fudge is a little flaky and may not really know everything.

[nolagirl]

Wow....I've read all the books, and I'm not even sure who all those characters are! All those possible plot lines really do show how good Rowling is......to plan out seven books with as intricate a plot line as HP. I'm ever impressed!

I really excited as well for Number Six. I just listened to OoP on CD as a "refresher" on a long car trip. Its' by far my favorite - in my opinion, much more complex and suspenseful than the others. I'm sure #6 will be even better!
Does anyone know how long its supposed to be? Will it be as thick as OoP? I hope so!

Edited because I can't spell....suspenseful? Still looks wrong!

[tlew12778]

Interesting stuff tlew12778. I'm a little surprised to not see Mark Evans listed as a possible candidate. Mark Evans was mentioned only in passing in OotP, but Evans is Lily Potter's maiden name, so it is possible he could be related to Harry and be a half-blood. I would not be surprised at all if he turns up at Hogwarts in book 6 (he was 10 in book 5). The con to this is that Minister Fudge says that there aren't any other wizards in Harry's neighborhood. Personally, I think Fudge is a little flaky and may not really know everything. Oh... hm... I actually did not read that whole entire list bc I have read them in the past and I know Mark Evans was on the past lists... they must have edited him out for some reason. Now I have to go look it up on mugglenet :p.

ETA: Apparently JKR has said that Mark Evans is not an important character in the story. You can read all 67 pages of speculation on ME here (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=11262&page=67&pp=20&highlight=mark+evans).

[eli1126]

My IRL friends were making fun of me for being so excited that there are only a few weeks left :) I didn't have a problem getting the last book when it came out, so I'll probably just head to the store that day and buy it.

Beth

[hockeybrat]

I just subscribed to this thread!

I can't wait til HBP comes out! I just finished re-reading GoF and OotP so I am really excited! I'll be reading that book as soon as I grab it from my front door!

[hockeybrat]

The rumor I had heard about HBP is that Dumbledore dies in this book. I hope not, I like Dumbledore.

I may be the only one, but I think Snape will end up really helping Harry out in this and maybe the next book. I think he just has a lot of animosity due to Harry's dad and will look beyond his personal feelings to help Harry out and helps him become an Auror and in turn, Snapes becomes the DADA teacher.

OK, I think I analyze these characters WAY too much.

[scarlett]

SEVERUS SNAPE
Pros: His character obviously has a lot in store; we don't know for sure if he is a pureblood; Potions books on British Adult cover.
Cons:
He most likely is a pureblood::

Regarding Snape being the HBP, JKR has just about told us he is a pureblood. Here is her quote on him at the Edinburgh Book Festival:

Quote:
Originally Posted by JKR
is he a pure blood wizard?
Snape’s ancestry is hinted at. He was a Death Eater, so clearly he is no Muggle born, because Muggle borns are not allowed to be Death Eaters, except in rare circumstances. You have some information about his ancestry there.

Well the the only hint we have, other than his being head of Slytherin, is the time he insulted Lily as a mudblood. So from that hint we can assume he is pureblood.

Has anyone heard of Snape being a vampire? This is hinted at throughout all 5 books thus far (especially if you are looking for it).

[quest]

I just finished OotP for the second time today...I can't believe I only read it twice! That's what happens when you have a baby shortly after the book is published :)

We're going to a midnight release to get it. And I'm using my Border's Explorers Childrens Book coupon thingy so I'll get $5 off. Always a bonus :)

I'm curious who the half-blood prince is but I'm more anxious about who dies in HBP. I dreaded turning each page in OotP because I knew someone 'good' was going to die, and it looks like that's going to happen again :(

I also want them to explain why Dumbledore trusts Snape despite everything. I believe that it's valid, but I just want to know WHY.

[Wrighty26]

Joining this thread!

I am currently re-reading OotP.... I forgot how dark and angry that book was!

There are definitely some very interesting theories about who the Half Blood Prince is...(still trying to get through half of it!)...

I didn't pre-order the book this time-- only because last time I didn't get it until the DAY after I was supposed to and it turns out I could have paid a lot less at Best Buy (random, I know!)...so DH/I are going to chance it this go round!

Only 16 more days!!!

[quest]

Okay, I probably shouldn't admit this, but I have the countdown ticker for the release of HBP on my desktop.

:o

Anyone else?

[eli1126]

I don't have the countdown ticker, but I do analyze the characters and agonize over the why's too :o I keep thinking Snape is going to come to Harry's defense and the reason he is so mean to him is not to call attention to the fact that he is actually protecting him. That's the only reason I can come up with for why Dumbledore continues to trust him. Yes, I have Way too much time on my hands :D

Beth

[citylove]

I know we're talking books here, but on the topic of Snape - I can't help but think the choice of actor in the movies was perfect! He does such an awesome job of loathing Harry and looks exactly as I pictured!

Maybe Snape is the HBP? Interesting ... I, too, am v. interested in why Dumbledore trusts him. (Whenever I say or write Dumbledore I want to say "Dumbly-door" like Madme Maxime!)

[tlew12778]

Okay, I probably shouldn't admit this, but I have the countdown ticker for the release of HBP on my desktop.

:o

Anyone else?OMG I totally saw that on mugglenet and almost downloaded it. But the time would have been off for me since we are 6 hrs ahead of EST.

I haven't ever considered the possibility of Snape being a vampire. And I'm wondering if the person who died in OOTP (not naming names bc I think some ppl have not finished it yet) is really dead. I think there will be a way for Harry to communicate with that person somehow.

[citylove]

And I'm wondering if the person who died in OOTP (not naming names bc I think some ppl have not finished it yet) is really dead. I think there will be a way for Harry to communicate with that person somehow.

I hope so, too! **SPOILER**








The discussion of mirrors talking in your other post made me think a little. I hope so, but it seemed so final. So sad, though - so sad!

[hockeybrat]

OMG I totally saw that on mugglenet and almost downloaded it. But the time would have been off for me since we are 6 hrs ahead of EST.

I haven't ever considered the possibility of Snape being a vampire. And I'm wondering if the person who died in OOTP (not naming names bc I think some ppl have not finished it yet) is really dead. I think there will be a way for Harry to communicate with that person somehow.


If you read the end of OotP, "Loony" Luna mentioned something about a particular area where you might be able to speak to the dead. (is that a foreshadowing)

Mugglenet is an awesome site!

[jenahdawn]

Oh, I would LOVE it if certain events from the last book weren't permanent....but, then, she needs to keep some realism in her books. This particular incident (and the one in #4) helped my brother and SIL discuss death with my nephew....

[swcolleen]

I am subscribing! We pre-ordered 2 copies for me and DH-we can't share or take turns so we just get two so we can read together. We are about to start re-reading books 4 and 5!

[quest]

I don't think the person who died in OotP is dead, either! Or maybe they are dead, but they aren't completely gone to Harry.

I remember 'screaming' at the book 'use the mirror! use the mirror!' and when he finally did, being devastated that it didn't do what I thought it would.

I can see Luna becoming more important in HBP...at least as far as giving Harry insight to some things other people can't comprehend.

I agree that Snape's casting was PERFECT. I'll admit I had to adjust to Harry (hair not messy enough) and Hermione (too cute) in the beginning, but now they ARE the characters. Ron is Ron, period. And I miss the original Dumbledore :( I still can't get into the new one...he's too 'hippy' or something.

[hockeybrat]

I agree that Snape's casting was PERFECT. I'll admit I had to adjust to Harry (hair not messy enough) and Hermione (too cute) in the beginning, but now they ARE the characters. Ron is Ron, period. And I miss the original Dumbledore I still can't get into the new one...he's too 'hippy' or something.

Yeah, he does seem too hippyish for the role of Dumbledore. If I were to have re-casted the character, I would have chosen Ian McKellan (Gandalf)

[Wrighty26]

I know someone said that they thought Dumbledore might die in this book-- any more guesses??

JK Rowling said that there WAS definitely another death with the new book, no? I could have misread that somewhere...

I agree that Snape was perfect casting-- as was, IMO, Lupin. He's my favorite adult character and I was not disappointed :D

[Stephanie]

I'm pretty sure that I have read that the sixth will also have a death. I hate to think it, but I wonder if it would be Dumbledore. :confused: That would leave Harry to continue on his own in the last book.

Someone earlier back said something similar, but I also loved the anger in OOtP. I kept thinking that it was about damn time he got angry! :D After reading the death to my class, they kept arguing that he was going come back. They couldn't believe that in one paragraph that he was suddenly gone and of course, they loved his character. I think the best part of the last book, especially for my class of 4th graders, they really connected with Harry's character, finally. They felt sorry for him and actually considered what it would be like to live with what he just found out from Dumbledore. (I'm not sure how much I can write because I don't want to spoil anything :) )

Also, the casting of Snape was absolutely perfect! I agree with everyone, but at times it doesn't work for me. We aren't supposed to like Snape, but Alan Rickman is...sigh. The voice, the accent. Hello! :D

[tlew12778]

I don't know if it will be Dumbledore. If he dies, who will take over the school? McGonagall? I thought maybe Arthur Weasely although maybe he could be the new Min. of Magic. What about Percy or one of the twins? I don't think it will be a central character really.

[hockeybrat]

I don't know if it will be Dumbledore. If he dies, who will take over the school? McGonagall? I thought maybe Arthur Weasely although maybe he could be the new Min. of Magic. What about Percy or one of the twins? I don't think it will be a central character really.

Oh please don't let it be prissy Percy! Arthur Weasley would be a good Min of Magic but he might be "too nice"? With the war against Lord Voldemort and his followers now, the new MM would have to be really strong and unfortunately, I don't see Arthur as that strong of a character. How about Mad Eye Moody?

[ilovepink]

I can't wait til HP comes out! I've had my copy preordered for months now, I'm salivating! And Mugglenet is as addicting as this message board! I spent 4 hours on there one night when DH was gone and didn't realize it until I looked at the clock at it was midnight!

JKR did say that there would be another death in the book and that it would be a death that has to happen for the plot to work. She also said she already has book 7 written so hopefully we won't have to wait as long for that one! :D

I think Dumbledore might become the new minister of magic which then leaves Harry open for attack by V. (Remember how they said Voldemort would never come near Harry if Dumbledore was around?) That also leaves Dumbledore's position open for the taking too which would be great to read as well.

[nolagirl]

Okay ladies,

Thank god for this thread.......I am way to embarrassed to post that I care about the answer to this question anywhere else! Anyway......I was reading a bio of Mrs. Weasley on a HP website (yeah, totally bowing my head in shame at my own geekiness!) and it said that she and Mr. Weasley were in the original Order of the Phoenix along with Mrs. W's brothers. I had thought that they weren't in the original OoP. Not sure why I'm so interested.....but does anyone know if thats true?

[claribella]

*note to self* must finish reading BOOK 5!

[Stephanie]

Nolagirl~If you're a geek, then we can stand side by side! I visit a couple of them every so often and I know that I have read what you are talking about. I just can't remember where I saw all the info about Mrs. Weasley's brothers. It wasn't in the OOtp was it? I looked at jkrowling.com, but couldn't find any extra on that. What other sites do you check out? But of course, if anyone asks, I just look for my students' benefit and not because I'm interested. :) You know, to be able to give them extra info and such. :rolleyes:

[JillianS]

has anyone else read the "ultimate unofficial guide to the mysteries of harry potter"?
it's amazing. It gave me an even bigger appreciation for the genius of these books.

And what they speculate about Lupin?!?!? OMG! I hope I hope I hope! And the more I re-read, the more I think it may be so...

(won't say cuz some don't like the spoiler stuff and this one's big)

[TX Sweetheart]

has anyone else read the "ultimate unofficial guide to the mysteries of harry potter"?
it's amazing. It gave me an even bigger appreciation for the genius of these books.

And what they speculate about Lupin?!?!? OMG! I hope I hope I hope! And the more I re-read, the more I think it may be so...

(won't say cuz some don't like the spoiler stuff and this one's big)

Oh Jillian, PM what this spoiler is!

I really need to get hopping on reading the other books through again... I'm still only half-way through the first book (3rd or 4th time reading it though) because I got distracted by another book and never got back into it :o

[Dotsie]

I am so excited about the next book. Count me in as a geek ;) I have gotten so many people hooked on these books. My mom pre ordered my book as a gift to me. I have already told my DH that when the book comes he is to take care of our DS at night for 2 days so I can finish the book. :D

[nolagirl]

Stephanie,

I'm sitting here dying laughing.....I'm a teacher too, and OF COURSE all HP research is strictly for my students' benefits!! (Yeah, I've actually used that excuse to my husband....he's definitely not buying it!) What do you teach?

I think I saw the info on Mrs. W on mugglenet? I really thought that when Harry found that picture of the original OotP, the Weasleys weren't in it, because they hadn't joined yet. But maybe I'm wrong.......my copy of OotP is packed away or you know I would be conducting further "research"!!

Jillian - I want to know what they say about Lupin too! He's my favorite!

[ButterflyJen]

It just popped into my head that there might be a thread over here about HBP. :)

I am so freaking excited for this book to come out, I can't stand it. And I hadn't heard that someone dies in this one too - but I guess it makes sense. The war is on now, right?

Must re-read 4 and 5 before 6 comes....

[hockeybrat]

has anyone else read the "ultimate unofficial guide to the mysteries of harry potter"?
it's amazing. It gave me an even bigger appreciation for the genius of these books.

And what they speculate about Lupin?!?!? OMG! I hope I hope I hope! And the more I re-read, the more I think it may be so...

(won't say cuz some don't like the spoiler stuff and this one's big)

Jillian, PM me please!!!!!!! I want to know! :p

[ButterflyJen]

Is there a way we can post spoilers in here? Maybe change the color so they fade into the background, then whoever wants to read them can highlight that text? I don't know if any of the colors are quite right for that, though.

Just a thought....it will make it easier when HBP does come out, I think!

[quest]

Okay, wait! JillianS is the speculation of Lupin in that 'unofficial guide' or is it something you read on a website!?

I NEED to read that! I usually avoid spoilers like the plague, but since this is speculation I definitely have a Need.To.Know :D

[hockeybrat]

I just entered Mugglenet.com and it says that we will know more about Lily Potter in this book and in #7.

[JillianS]

this theory I have read regarding lupin is one of the theories of the writers of the book i was talking about. But these aren't ordinary "speculators" these people have spent years dedicated to studying everything HP and deciphering and analyzing everything (down to the latin meanings of names/chapter titles, literary devices, etc etc etc. )
and the more times I read the books, the more I believe that it just may be possible.

[JillianS]

OK, so I have just read an article posted on mugglenet that totally disproves the theory I was talking about. Well isn't that just a bummer. I can still believe it if I want to :)
so, nevermind :)

[Dunja]

*bounces with excitement*

Those of you not terrified of spoilers - I ran into this article today: http://www.veritaserum.com/books/book6/verified.shtml It's a summary of all the things Rowling has already told us about HBP. I knew most of those things, but put together like that it seems like a whole bunch of information! :o

And regarding pervious comments about Mark Evans? Rowling answered that on her website some months a go: http://www.jkrowling.com/textonly/faq_view.cfm?id=49 :rolleyes:

[TX Sweetheart]

Jillian thanks for the PM, even though you just said the theory is disproven...

[gnatters]

I wanted to join in on the HP discussion. I'm so excited about Half Blood Prince, but I think I'm more excited about the fact that I am flying two days after the book comes out, so that means hours upon hours of un-interrupted reading time!

I have to admit that I didn't get into the books until after I saw Sorcerer's Stone in theaters. Since then, I haven't been able to get enough of Harry Potter. *hangs head in shame* I check the mugglenet website every morning to catch up on the latest news relating to anything in the Harry Potter Universe.

I am also interested in the Lupin PM, if you could send it my way, please!

~Natalie

[Stephanie]

Nolagirl~I teach 4th grade and I start back to school with a new class on Tuesday. I usually read all the books, but I will probably start with Goblet of Fire so that we can go to see it at the Imax in Nov. My copies (yes, that is plural :rolleyes: ) of OOtP are at the school, so I can't be sure of the picture either. I know that it's bothering me though!

I'm with the rest of you on Mugglenet! Has anyone checked out The Leaky Cauldron? I would also like to have spoilers on here. Maybe we can find a way. :confused: Maybe in yellow? It is so hard to read that you can really only see what is written if you highlight it. Would this be easy to skip over or can you still see the important parts?

[tlew12778]

Me thinks I need to re-read the books over the next 11 days :p.

OK so I was just reading that Veritaserum website. Who is Blaise Zabini? I don't remember that name.

ETA: Nevermind. I found him on the HP Lexicon (http://www.hp-lexicon.org/wizards/wizards-v-z.html). Apparently he's a slytherin. BTW, there's a bio (http://www.hp-lexicon.org/wizards/molly.html) of Mrs Weasely there and it mentions Gideon and Fabian Prewett as being "close relatives of hers" killed during Voldemort's first rise to power.

[ButterflyJen]

Stephanie - I can skip over yellow, but white works too. Here's a test:

testing white - does this work for spoilers too?

[JillianS]

oooooh the white rocks.

[eli1126]

Yikes! I have religiously read all the books and watched the movies, but as I am rereading OOTP I can't believe all the characters and events I have forgotten all about :eek: It seems like even the little characters/events may have such a big signifigance to HBP??!!

Beth

[Stephanie]

I didn't even know that there was white! :D Scrolling down through the list of colors would help! I just found about ten colors that I didn't realize were there. :o

[gnatters]

*lol* I was going to suggest white, but for some reason I thought the frame where the text was, was a light blue color. White would be perfect to hide spoilers, and I know *mugglenet* does the same thing, except in black.

~Natalie

[eli1126]

Ok I finished rereading OOTP last night, and I forgot what a squib was? The old daffy neighbor lady is one and so is Filch, but what does that mean?!! Oh all the things I have forgotten!!!!

Beth

[hockeybrat]

Ok I finished rereading OOTP last night, and I forgot what a squib was? The old daffy neighbor lady is one and so is Filch, but what does that mean?!! Oh all the things I have forgotten!!!!

Beth

A squib is a wizard who cannot perform spells or magic. :D

I like the white for spoilers!

[eli1126]

Whah!! This is me crying because Borders stopped taking pre orders of HBP today..right before I called :( The Barnes and Noble is a bit farther away so I didn't bother calling them, but maybe I'll just do it tomorrow.

Beth

[hockeybrat]

Whah!! This is me crying because Borders stopped taking pre orders of HBP today..right before I called :( The Barnes and Noble is a bit farther away so I didn't bother calling them, but maybe I'll just do it tomorrow.

Beth

Beth, Amazon is still taking orders with a guarantee that they will have the book to you by the 16th or your money back. The 11th is the last day to take advantage of that.
Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0439784549/ref=amb_right-1_10147901_2/102-5149794-5712160)

[JillianS]

A squib is someone who was born into a wizarding family but is NOT a wizard. ("wizard-born muggle"?)

(the opposite of a muggle-born wizard)

[katmg]

I love this thread! I'm such a HP addict. DH has decided not to even *try* to get me to do anything that weekend. He knows I'm just going to have my nose stuffed in that book!

I'm definitely on board with having spoilers in either white or yellow. I like the yellow b/c I can see there's something there but can't read it.

I think I'm going to go to Walmart or Target to get my book. That's where I got mine last time and didn't have to worry about pre-ordering anything. I may see who near me is going to sell them at midnight.

[JillianS]

Oh soooo excited. 10 more days :)

One thing though, I know that as soon as I buy it (at midnight if I can, the next morning if i can't) I will sit and read it cover to cover asap. IT'll be done in a matter of days. But...then I'll have to wait a whole other two years to read more :( that's the sad part. And I bet the itch to read 7 will be even crazier than 6.

[JillianS]

And we're going to have to figure out a way that we can talk about the book as we read it, but not wreck it for ppl who haven't gotten to that point yet....
is that what we're doing in white?

Maybe at the beginning of our post write "End of Ch 7" or something....?

Or just create new threads for every chapter..haha poor CC.

It's funny how on mugglenet.com they have all these people clamouring for others not to ruin HBP for those who haven't read it yet/gotten as far as they have, and I was thinking 'well, just don't go to the website til you're done the book sillies! But then again, I want to be on here discussing it with you ladies as I read it, so i guess I understand it!

The only other 2 people I know who read HP are on opposite ends of the globe, so I have no one at home to go nutso with :)

[hockeybrat]

I love the fact that I can talk HP with you gals. The boards on Mugglenet are so huge that it would take me months to catch up so I am glad that we are here to talk about all things HP:)

[amwilson615]

Good afternoon, all!

I am a Harry Potter addict, and am anxiously awaiting the new book. I've had mine pre-ordered for the past three months, and will be in heaven when i get to get it. lol. It's been marked on my calendar forever. My fiance knows that he has a lot on his hands that weekend, cause I will be out of commission.

Does anybody know is the Waldenbooks chain is planning on opening at midnight for it?????????????????/

[tlew12778]

And we're going to have to figure out a way that we can talk about the book as we read it, but not wreck it for ppl who haven't gotten to that point yet.... Um, I for one, will not be taking the time out to post on CC while reading the book. Sorry ;).

[katmg]

Um, I for one, will not be taking the time out to post on CC while reading the book.

Nope. Neither will I. I'll probably start reading as soon as I get the book and likely won't stop for food or sleep. ;) I actually have to go to a wedding shower the morning of the 16th. The nerve of some people, scheduling silly showers when HBP is coming out!

[eli1126]

Nope. Neither will I. I'll probably start reading as soon as I get the book and likely won't stop for food or sleep. ;) I actually have to go to a wedding shower the morning of the 16th. The nerve of some people, scheduling silly showers when HBP is coming out!

LOL :D

Beth

[Natasha]

better late than never...so good to find some HP addicts! I am dying foir the book to come out. Fh and I are just getting one copy, but I get to read it first, cause i read waaaaaaaaay faster than him, heehee.

[JillianS]

haha good point on the no time for CC. Silly me.

grrrr why isn't it out tomororw???

[ButterflyJen]

I'm an uber-dork. I just got this T-shirt (http://www.wbshop.com/catalog/product.xml?product_sku=HPGTTSSW&referral_id=CJP&AID=10280984&PID=279014) today (ordered it June 1st but it's been on backorder since then!!). I can't wait another nine days to wear it....;)

[AttyGrl74]

Is anyone planning on going to the bookstore at midnight to get this?

Our indie book store has a little shindig and opens at midnight to sell them - I'm considering going and taking Baby Nora. Just to see it all.

[hockeybrat]

OK, I just signed up to MuggleNet.com's message boards but it is SO INTIMIDATING! I posted a couple posts but I think I will be a lurker there.

I love having this here in CC! :cool:

[eli1126]

Is anyone planning on going to the bookstore at midnight to get this?

Our indie book store has a little shindig and opens at midnight to sell them - I'm considering going and taking Baby Nora. Just to see it all.

I'm not, but my sister's friends are :) I wouldn't be able to put the book down and go to sleep if I go at midnight, so I am waiting until the next morning.

Beth

[Hedwig]

Definately cannot wait! I have started Order of the Pheonix again (I feel like I am cramming for a test!) If I went at midnight, I would be reading all night as well! Its bad enough the kids get neglected during the day when these books come out! Although maybe if I tried to pull an all nighter, they would at least get breakfast the next morning!

[eli1126]

Definately cannot wait! I have started Order of the Pheonix again (I feel like I am cramming for a test!) If I went at midnight, I would be reading all night as well! Its bad enough the kids get neglected during the day when these books come out! Although maybe if I tried to pull an all nighter, they would at least get breakfast the next morning!


Breakfast is soooo overrated :p

Beth

[Scooter]

I am so disappointed that Mark Evans is "not an important character." :(

In the last book I was getting excited that Harry had a long lost cousin who was coming to Hogwarts next year. I mean, why else would JKR use his mom's maiden name and then also add that he's 10 years old--when we know they go to Hogwarts at age 11?

He was my best bet for HBP, now I don't know what to think.

Oh, and the Severus is a vampire theory--I read that on Mugglenet a few years ago, and have since reread all the books (I won't say how many times I've reread them all :o ). There are too many things that don't make sense and don't add up, I just don't think that's plausible. Even tkaing into account the "psychic vampire" theory. :rolleyes:

[Bellefior]

I haven't decided since we are at the ILs next weekend (MIL b-day) to order from Amazon and have it shipped or to send FIL out early that morning to the grocery store to pick it up for me,which is what he did the last time! Thoughts, anyone?

[jenahdawn]

REAL fans don't stop for breakfast....Pshaw!

:p

[eli1126]

I was orginally going to pre order it, but decided to just go to Target or Sam's club early Saturday morning. The last time I just went and picked it up a few days after it came out because I thought there would be a mad dash, but to my amazement there was a huge display that was full! I think that if you go to a Borders or Barnes and Noble you may run into problems they are opening at midnight, but so many other stores will have them like Target, Wal-Mart, etc. Good Luck!
Beth

[ButterflyJen]

My parents preordered it as a birthday present for me. I know I won't have it at midnight....but the facts are, I'm sleeping at midnight. With a baby around, I sleep when I can. :p

[hockeybrat]

I am so disappointed that Mark Evans is "not an important character."
In the last book I was getting excited that Harry had a long lost cousin who was coming to Hogwarts next year. I mean, why else would JKR use his mom's maiden name and then also add that he's 10 years old--when we know they go to Hogwarts at age 11?

I just re-read OotP and I don't remember reading about Mark Evans. I've seen that name in other HP sites but didn't understand the correlation.

Can someone clue me in? Did I miss something?

[eli1126]

I just re-read OotP and I don't remember reading about Mark Evans. I've seen that name in other HP sites but didn't understand the correlation.

Can someone clue me in? Did I miss something?

I was thinking the same thing?? I don't remember this character and I just finished rereading OOTP :confused:

Did anyone hear that another major character is supposed to die in HBP? If so, any guesses as to the identity? I just hope it's not Ron or Hermoine! Or Neville, or the Weasly's....Ok I just realized I could go on and on with who I wouldn't want it to be, so I'll just have to wait and see :)

Beth

[hockeybrat]

I was thinking the same thing?? I don't remember this character and I just finished rereading OOTP

Did anyone hear that another major character is supposed to die in HBP? If so, any guesses as to the identity? I just hope it's not Ron or Hermoine! Or Neville, or the Weasly's....Ok I just realized I could go on and on with who I wouldn't want it to be, so I'll just have to wait and see

I am hoping it isn't one of them, Dumbledore or Snape (that would throw my theory of Snape being a good guy out the window).

Maybe Hagrid or another one of the teachers?

[eli1126]

I am hoping it isn't one of them, Dumbledore or Snape (that would throw my theory of Snape being a good guy out the window).

Maybe Hagrid or another one of the teachers?

Oh No! Not Hagrid or McGonagall, or ..... :D

Beth

[hockeybrat]

LOL! Beth, you crack me up.

OK, how about "Ickle" Dudley-kins? :p

[JillianS]

I think it has to be someone pretty major. I mean, they are entering an actual 'war'.
My guess is either Dumbledore or one of the Weasleys...sad and sucky and makes me mad, but those are my guesses.

[hockeybrat]

If it has got to be a Weasley, please make it someone like Percy. I'd be sad if it were Ron, Ginny or one of the twins :(

I have this feeling that by the end of book 7, when it is finally over, I'll be in tears.

[eli1126]

LOL! Beth, you crack me up.

OK, how about "Ickle" Dudley-kins? :p

I would be ok with Dudley or Mr. Dursley! I just think they are expendable :D

I sadly will have to agree with this:
I think it has to be someone pretty major. I mean, they are entering an actual 'war'.
My guess is either Dumbledore or one of the Weasleys...sad and sucky and makes me mad, but those are my guesses. Posted by:JillianS

Beth

[tlew12778]

OK I haven't been able to get onto CC from work. Total BUMMER.

Mark Evans was mentioned way at the beginning of OOTP when Harry is stomping around the playground bc he got yelled at by Mr. Dursley. Dudley comes along with his friends and they are gloating about having beaten up 10 year old Mark Evans. That's the only mention of him in the book I think.

I am so going to be at the bookstore at midnight. Last time the bookstore had a HP gala night and they showed the first 2 movies for free and coincided them to end at midnight.

[Hedwig]

I am still confused about the Mark character? When was he mentioned?

[Clattercote]

Hi - just found this thread, and v. glad too - most of the people I live with could care less about HP.

Current dilemma: I pre-ordered the book online - but now I'm thinking I should cancel it and pre-order at a local bookstore so I get it sooner ;)

[hockeybrat]

I am still confused about the Mark character? When was he mentioned?


I am reading some of the theorys on Mugglenet.com Boards right now. In the beginning of OotP, Harry runs into Dudley and his "gang" and mentions something about how he beat up a 10-year old kid named Mark Evans.

Given that information, I guess people have been trying to figure out if there is a connection between this Mark Evans character and Lily Potter (maiden name Evans).

What they are mainly saying is that JKR doesn't usually drop a name just for the heck of it. (For example, in Book 1 - I am reading that again now - they mention Mrs. Fibb and we find out in OotP that she is a Squib).

[Stephanie]

Hockeybrat~I hate to be spoil the theories, but there was actually an answer posted on her website about this. Although, I'm sure people still like the theory anyway. Here you go:

Section: F.A.Q.
What is the significance, if any, of Mark Evans?
I couldn't answer the poll question before now, because I've been making arrangements to take my family into hiding. It takes time to arrange fake passports, one-way air tickets to Bolivia and twenty-four hour armed security.

Why should I resort to such desperate measures? Because after you've heard this answer, I'll have to disappear for my own safety.

Now before I get down to it (you can guess what's coming, can't you?) I am going to put up a feeble pre-emptive defence. Firstly, you were all spinning highly ingenious theories about Mark Evans, so I thought that you would welcome the chance to hear the truth about him. Secondly, I tried hard not to raise hopes or expectations by adding the crucial words 'if any' to the question. Thirdly... there is no thirdly. I'm just killing time.

(Takes deep breath)

Mark Evans is... nobody. He's nobody in the sense that Mr. Prentice, Madam Marsh and Gordon-Dudley's-gang-member are nobodies, just background people who need names, but who have no role other than the walk-on parts assigned to them.
(Checks that Neil has immunized the dog and that Jessica has packed her Gameboy, and continues)

I've got nobody to blame but myself. Sirius Black, Mrs. Figg and Mundungus Fletcher were all mentioned in passing well before they burst onto the stage as fully-fledged characters, so now you've all become too clever, not for your own good, but for mine. The fact is that once you drew my attention to it, I realised that Mark Evans did indeed look like one of those 'here he is, just a casual passer-by, nothing to worry about, bet you barely noticed him' characters who would suddenly become, half way through book seven, 'Ha ha! Yes, Mark Evans is back, suckers, and he's the key to everything! He's the Half Blood Prince, he's Harry's Great-Aunt, he's the Heir of Gryffindor, he lives up the Pillar of Storgé and he owns the Mystic Kettle of Nackledirk!' (Possible title of book seven there, must make a note of it).

Then why – WHY – (I hear you cry) – did I give him the surname “Evans”? Well, believe me, you can't regret it more than I do right now. “Evans” is a common name; I didn't give it much thought; I wasn't even trying to set up another red herring. I could just as easily have called him 'Smith' or 'Jones' (or 'Black' or 'Thomas' or 'Brown', all of which would have got me into trouble too).

What else can I say? Many of the theories you presented were highly plausible. If you knew how often I've checked the FAQ poll hoping that one of the other questions might edge into the lead...

Well, that's that. The car with false license plates is at the door and I've got to glue on my goatee. Goodbye.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
©2005 J.K. Rowling. All Rights Reserved.

[Scooter]

So who thinks that Fudge is going to be kicked out as Minister of Magic and Arthur Weasley is going to be the new one, by the end of book 7? :D

[tlew12778]

I thought there was already a new Min of Magic in book 6? Maybe I am remembering wrong. I am re-reading book 5 right now. Whoever said it was like cramming for an exam was right! I think JKR already said Arthur would not be the new Min of Magic, no? I am actually wondering if he dies in either 6 or 7.

[hockeybrat]

Stephanie,

Half-way through reading all the Mark Evans theories yesterday, I went to JKR's website and saw it ;).

The theories were definitely interesting though.

[JillianS]

I wouldn't be surprised if it were Molly or Arthur Weasley that didn't make it to the end of book 6... they are both very close to harry, important characters, loved by the "good" magical community and very involved with the Order and outspoken abuot their beliefs. I think it would also have a huge impact on a lot of things.

The arguement about it being dumbledore is that eventually, the final showdown has got to be between harry and Vold. and JUST harry and Vold. Harry has to learn what he can be, completely on his own, and he can't do that, can't realize his true potential and true powers with dumbl. always around protecting him...so if Db. dies (sob sob sob), Harry will truly be on his own to fight Vold. (some suggest that Db may even sacrifice himself to either save harry or "pass on " some of his powers to harry in some way or for some similar "greater cause"...

who knows.

[Scooter]

Ttlew12778 wrote:
I thought there was already a new Min of Magic in book 6? ...I think JKR already said Arthur would not be the new Min of Magic, no? I am actually wondering if he dies in either 6 or 7.

I hadn't heard that--and I'm about to start rereading book 5 so I'll have to look out for how that's left. I just remember talking with DH after we finished book 5 about how much sense it would make for Arthur to take over that position. From what I remember, anyway, at the end of the last book it was obvious the magical community was split between Dumbledore and Fudge followers, and Dumbledore was gaining a substantial number of them because of the Voldemort appearance. I didn't think it was a foregone conclusion that Fudge was going to be out. And since Arthur is such a leader--in the Order of the Phoenix, well-respected, & in many ways Dumbledore's right hand man--that it's really setting him up for that position. When did JKR say that wouldn't happen? She's blowing all my theories, first Mark Evans, now this. :mad:

JillianS wrote:
(some suggest that Db may even sacrifice himself to either save harry or "pass on " some of his powers to harry in some way or for some similar "greater cause"...
Well, that does make sense. If you think about it, part of the reason Harry has been able to fight Voldemort is because of his parents' love and sacrifice for him. So it would make sense that Dumbledore would use that to help strenghten Harry.

[JillianS]

I have also read many times and many places that JKR has officially stated that a) yes, there will be a new Min. for Magic and b) it will NOT be Arthur Weasley...

[tlew12778]

I wouldn't be surprised if it were Molly or Arthur Weasley that didn't make it to the end of book 6... they are both very close to harry, important characters, loved by the "good" magical community and very involved with the Order and outspoken abuot their beliefs. I think it would also have a huge impact on a lot of things.
I agree. Also as I am re-reading OOTP, I just re-read the part where Molly is freaking out bc the boggart in at Grimmauld Pl. appears as all the Weasleys and how she says she is worried bc half the family is in the order and what if something happens to one of them, etc. Considering that JKR is known for foreshadowing this theory makes a lot of sense.

[eli1126]

I really need to start noticing the finer details :) I always miss the boat when it comes to the little things! Now that you mention it, I can see that there may be something with the Weasley foreshadowing. And Mrs. Weasley's breakdown while removing the boggart wasn't a little blurb in OOTP, it semed pretty signifigant.

Beth

[ButterflyJen]

Very true about Molly and the boggart. I think Arthur's being attacked in OOTP is kind of a red herring in that respect. You think that's what JKR was foreshadowing when Molly was dealing with the boggart, but that was pretty mild compared to what could happen. Interesting.

Much as I hate to think about it, it's probably Arthur, one of the other Weasleys (that Harry is close to - which pretty much rules out Percy), or Dumbledore. :(

[JillianS]

So if it IS one of the Weasleys, will that bring Percy back "into the family" in the grieving process?
Or, what if one of the Weasleys die because Percy chooses loyalty to the ministry over his family, and either "lets some kind of information accidentally slip" or tells someone about the order/about some of their plans? JKR hinted a little about Percy being "over eager and obsessed with his career, and would do ANYthing to advance himself..."

[ButterflyJen]

ooooh, good points. I hope it's the first, not the second!

[eli1126]

Did HBP come out in the UK already? I thought I heard people complaining that people had the book and were giving things away.

Beth

[curlyjr]

I am so excited! I pre ordered and will be at the midnight sale!!!!

[tlew12778]

But what plans of the order does Percy know of? He has all but disowned his own family. When Harry went to his hearing, Arther and Percy did not even look at each other so where could he have heard the plans from?

No, HBP is not out in the UK yet. The book release is set for midnight local time on July 15th. I will be getting the UK verson but at midnight in Italy so basically one hour before the UK and 6 hours before EST :p. At least this is how it worked last itme. I have to call the bookstore and check. I think that JKR originally wanted the books to be released at the same exact time all around the world but due to time differences, that's not really practical.

[Scooter]

Nope, hasn't come out in the UK yet. We preordered our copy, but from Britain, so as much as we'd like it to get an early release, ;) I know it's the same as the US release date.

re: the Weasleys
I can't find any mention on JKR's site (that thing is so hard to search through for info!!), but several other of the big HP sites refer to her posting that thing about Arthur not being the "next" Min of Magic. So that's disappointing.

As far as the Boggart in OotP goes, I agree. It definitely foreshadows some great Weasley tragedy, and I was thinking when I read it that it is either going to be Percy or will be somehow related to something he does in the name of career advancement.

I don't know, that was just my hunch when I read OotP before--but I'm obviously 0 for 2 at this point, as far as theories. Now Harry will end up with Hermione, just to REALLY prove me wrong!!

[ButterflyJen]

Now Harry will end up with Hermione, just to REALLY prove me wrong!!
Ack, I hope not! :)

[meganth]

And Mrs. Weasley's breakdown while removing the boggart wasn't a little blurb in OOTP, it semed pretty signifigant.

I thought that was kind of a red herring to make us think when Arthur got attacked we'd really think he was going to be the one to die in OotP and totally throw us off from who really dies. Now that you all mention it though, i guess it would make sense since she's always dropping clues throughout all the books.

It hasn't been said that somebody will for sure die in this book though, has it?

[eli1126]

I don't know, see I have always pictured Ron and Hermione "hooking up!!" I am so excited because it's Tuesday!! Only 3 1/2 more days!!! I say 3 1/2 becasue stores are opening at midnight and some of you ladies will be getting your copies then...I am so Jealous!

Beth

[jenahdawn]

Molly and the Boggart was a whole chapter, IIRC....(my mom has all 5 of my books, so I can't go check)

I think (HOPE) it was just playing on all of her fears, because it went through her whole family, as well as Harry, and I thought Hermione. (Again, can't check)

We leave for vacation tomorrow, and my book will be delivered while we are gone, so I won't be back to this thread (after today) until after I am done reading it because I don't want any spoilers!!!!

[meganth]

I thought that was kind of a red herring to make us think when Arthur got attacked we'd really think he was going to be the one to die in OotP and totally throw us off from who really dies.
Ha - Just pointing out my lovely use of a run on sentence. I need this week to be over. :rolleyes:

[jenahdawn]

oh....megs, and it's only Tuesday......

[tlew12778]

Molly and the Boggart was a whole chapter, IIRC....(my mom has all 5 of my books, so I can't go check)

I think (HOPE) it was just playing on all of her fears, because it went through her whole family, as well as Harry, and I thought Hermione. (Again, can't check) No it's not a whole chapter. The chapters in OoTP are quite long. The chapter that scene is located in is the chapter in which Harry goes to trial in front of the Wizengamot. He gets back to the 12 Grimmauld Pl and Molly decides to throw a little party to celebrate the fact that both Harry got off and Ron is a prefect. At the party, she asked Mad-Eye to take a look in the desk, he swirls his magic eye around, and confirms it's a Boggart. He asks if she wants him to get rid of it for him and she says she'll do it later on... that it's "just" a boggart. As Harry is going upstairs, he hears crying and finds Molly on the floor sobbing. He freaks when he sees Ron's body but then realises that it's the boggart bc he just saw Ron downstairs. Then the boggart changes to the rest of the family members including Harry. At this point Lupin comes in and gets rid of the boggart and consoles Molly tellling her that they would not let her choldren starve if something were to happen to her and Arthur.

meganth - You are right about the red herring I think. I was thinking that it could be Charlie or Bill but they are kind of insignificant in terms of Harry's emotional relationship with the person who dies (and I think he will have some kind of relationship with that person). I don't know if it will be Molly bc... well, she seems to stay in and cook a lot. She doesn't seem to be doing active duty for the order (that we know of), but maybe that will change in the next book.

[hockeybrat]

So there was a report that a store in Vancouver started selling the books early.

UGH, I can't wait! Is it Saturday already??

[AKA Poohgirl]

My husband works for a major grocery chain, and yesterday he received the shipment of HBP. He didn't seem to think it was imperative to swipe a copy and bring it home to me!

I don't know, I may have to divorce him.

:D

ETA: They are under strict orders to not even open up the totes they came in, they're sealed and everything. Sheesh! It's always so top secret.

[jenahdawn]

A friend of mine works at a bookstore. Last time around, she worked at B&N, and they could open the boxes, only to put them in the bags ahead of time for the pre-orders and midnight sale.

This new store she works at, they aren't allowed to open the boxes until the people come in to pick them up. And they ONLY got enough for the preorders, NO extras for people just coming in to buy them. She's dreading going to work on Saturday because there are going to be a LOT of angry people, and, since they are in the mall, they aren't allowed to open at midnight....

[eli1126]

A friend of mine works at a bookstore. Last time around, she worked at B&N, and they could open the boxes, only to put them in the bags ahead of time for the pre-orders and midnight sale.

This new store she works at, they aren't allowed to open the boxes until the people come in to pick them up. And they ONLY got enough for the preorders, NO extras for people just coming in to buy them. She's dreading going to work on Saturday because there are going to be a LOT of angry people, and, since they are in the mall, they aren't allowed to open at midnight....

Borders in my area will have the same problem! They had so many pre orders the whole first shipment is reserved :mad: IMO that's a little ridiculous! I am excited too, but they should have set books from that first shipment aside for first come first serve customers!!

Beth

[katmg]

If they're only going to have enough for pre-orders they shouldn't advertise having the book at all. The pre-orders know they have it and other people might go elsewhere.

I'm sticking to my midnight Wal-Mart plan. DH and I plan to go see the movie Charlie and the Chocolate Factory that night and then pop over to Wal-Mart and pick up my book!

[eli1126]

It's Wednesday!! I am getting excited! I'm still going to wait until Sat morning. I have to work 10-1:00 Sat, so I will need to get some sleep and if I have HP I know I won't :D

Beth

[AKA Poohgirl]

Ugh! I just got the worst email from Amazon.com:

Hello from Amazon.com. We're happy to let you know that we've begun preparing your order for "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" for delivery. We're working hard to make sure you get your order as quickly as possible. However, please note that we can't guarantee that your book(s) will be delivered on July 16.

Um, when I ordered it, they said guaranteed delivery on July 16th! That's WHY I ordered it, I figured I didn't need to have it at midnight, I'll be too sleepy to read it anyhow.

GRRRR! Do you think I can still cancel my order? I can just go to hubby's store and getting on the morning of the 16th. (they weren't taking preorders)

[Bellefior]

That was one of the reasons I didn't pre-order from Amazon. We're at the ILs this weekend b/c it's MIL b-day and I thought about it. Amazon said if it didn't arrive on time, shipping was free. We figured we'll take our chances with the local supermarket or drugstore, who we know will have them.

[AKA Poohgirl]

Bugger! I can't cancel it. I will have to return it. Which I just might do.

Don't they realize how important this is to me?!?!

:p

Anyhow, I'm just about 3/4 of the way through OotP, having read the whole series again, and I had pretty much forgotten the whole book! It is really dark, it doesn't give me the good feelings the other 4 did.

I take it the next 2 will have the same feeling?

[meganth]

I got that same email a couple of days before delivery on OotP but i still got it at 10am Saturday morning. I think it's just an email they send out to cover their rears.

[AKA Poohgirl]

Thanks Megan, that gives me some hope!

I'll just wish for the best. And hopefully someone will come on here and give updates!

[knoelani]

Ok, I'm jumping in here! I tried to resist and it's just not possible. I'm re-reading ootp right now and like AKA Poohgirl I forgot a lot of the stuff in there. I've been spending way more time on mugglenet than on work this week, must stop before I get fired!

I can't wait for the new one to come out and I'm looking forward to sharing it with everyone!

[AKA Poohgirl]

Well I'm excited! I got this email from Amazon today!

We wanted to let you know that an earlier e-mail message you received from us regarding your order for "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" was sent to you in error. We sincerely apologize for the concern we caused with this incorrect message, and hope you will be thrilled to know that we've begun preparing your order for shipment and we are confident that it will be delivered on Saturday, July 16.

I am SO looking forward to it.

[amwilson615]

I reserved my copy at Waldenbooks a few months ago. They're having a party this Friday, starting at 9pm, and then at 12:01, I get my book. I am psyched!!!!!! :D

[eli1126]

Ugh! I just got the worst email from Amazon.com:



Um, when I ordered it, they said guaranteed delivery on July 16th! That's WHY I ordered it, I figured I didn't need to have it at midnight, I'll be too sleepy to read it anyhow.

GRRRR! Do you think I can still cancel my order? I can just go to hubby's store and getting on the morning of the 16th. (they weren't taking preorders)

My sister had said she did the Amazon order for OOTP and it didn't come when it was supposed to because they can't risk letting you get it early! Meaning if they ship it Thursday what if by some fluke you get it the next afternoon, before the book is actually relaeased!! So that's why she did the Borders pre-order this time.

Beth

[camberne]

Here's my email from Barnes & Noble:
"Your order is now packed and ready to leave our warehouse. The details of your order appear below. Within 24 hours of receiving this email, you may track the delivery status of your order at ... "

My son will be so thrilled!!

[Lauren]

*Joining*

I can't wait -- I pre-ordered by book through Borders, and they're having a midnight release party! I'm sure, just like last time, I'll be up until the wee hours reading! ;)

[hockeybrat]

This was my letter from Amazon.com:

Hello from Amazon.com.

We're happy to let you know that we've begun preparing your order for
"Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" for delivery.

You should have the book(s) in your hands no later than 7:00 p.m. in
your time zone on Saturday, July 16. Most books will be delivered by
U.S. Mail, either with your regular mail delivery or in a separate,
special mail delivery. Some orders may be delivered by UPS.

Because our carriers are delivering hundreds of thousands of books on
that day, we do ask that you wait until 7:00 p.m. before contacting
customer service if you haven't received your order.

Although we're not requiring a signature, we still recommend that
someone be home to accept the package, as the driver may not leave it
on
your doorstep if they don't feel it's safe to do so.

You'll receive our usual shipment confirmation e-mail after your
package
leaves our fulfillment center.

Thanks for shopping at Amazon.com, and happy reading!

[ButterflyJen]

no later than 7:00 p.m

AAAAAACK! What am I supposed to do all day, clean? ;)

[eli1126]

AAAAAACK! What am I supposed to do all day, clean? ;)


LOL :)

Beth

[meganth]

I can already track my order! It's already here in town, now i just need to wait till Saturday!

[hockeybrat]

It better not show up at 7pm! :( I am hoping for before noon so I can read some and entertain some friends who are coming over to visit and then spend the rest of the day reading.


If it DOES show up at 7pm, I'll have the cleanest house in the neighborhood :p

[hockeybrat]

YAY! I just went on Amazon.com and I've got a UPS Tracking #!

:D

[quest]

Okay, so my original plan was to pick DD up from my Mom's after work, get her home, fed, settled, and sleeping before I go to Border's with friends. (DH is staying home with her.) I was a little stressed because I know she knows when I'm up to something and as of right now Mommy is her bedtime routine ;)

Then my darling Mom said I should just leave her there, and then the 2 of us can spend the night since we all have plans for Saturday. So that means not only do I not have to worry about leaving DD and/or getting her to sleep (she has no problems with me leaving when she's at Gramma's ;)) but now I can start reading right when I get back! (Okay, so technically I could also start reading if I was going back to my house...but for some reason it feels like 'vacation' when we stay at my Mom's so I have 'permission' to read :o.)

Basically, I'm happy! And how queer is this...my friend and I are going to make butterbeer. It's not the 'official' recipe but it involves coffee and butterscotch schnapps and it's yummy!

[ButterflyJen]

post that butterbeer recipe (or ANY butterbeer recipe!) please! :D

[hockeybrat]

That sounds fun!

I saw a bumper sticker yesterday that said "Republicans for Voldemort"

LMAO!

[quest]

This is the recipe on Mugglenet:

Ingredients:
1 cup (8 oz) club soda or cream soda
½ cup (4 oz) butterscotch syrup (ice cream topping)
½ tablespoon butter


Directions:
Step 1: Measure butterscotch and butter into a 2 cup (16 oz) glass. Microwave on high for 1 to 1½ minutes, or until syrup is bubbly and butter is completely incorporated.

Step 2: Stir and cool for 30 seconds, then slowly mix in club soda. Mixture will fizz quite a bit.

Step 3: Serve in two coffee mugs or small glasses; a perfectly warm Hogwarts treat for two!

But that was way too involved for me, so we just used coffee, lots of cream, and butterscotch schnapps. It's dee-lish!

[ButterflyJen]

Yum! I must get ingredients for either one! :)

[Noa]

Hey everyone! Just a quick post to say I am sooooooooooooo freakin' excited about the 6th book. I am almost done re-reading the 5th book (for the 3rd time) and will try to buy the book at midnight. Yayyy!

[katmg]

I found that might local Kroger's (grocery store) will be selling the book at midnight! I figure that most people will go to Barnes and Noble type bookstores for the midnight release and won't bother too much with a grocery store...aren't I tricky?! ;)

Maybe I can pick up the ingredients for Butterbeer while I'm there.

The weather down here has been really rainy the past few days and I've wished I had the book already. Rainy weather is such perfect weather for book-reading. Hope it lasts through the weekend!

[eli1126]

It's 8:12 pm EST on Thursday :) I should call Target to see if they are doing anything for HP's release. I wouldn't want to be caught off guard Sat morning to find they had a midnight opening and there aren't any copies left :eek: Ah, the stuff nightmares are made of :p

Beth

[Bellefior]

Since we are at the ILs this weekend I asked DH if the Stop and Shop there is 24 hours and do they sell books. Yes to both. I told DH if he drove me there to get the book, I'd buy him drinks at the local watering hole afterwards!

[knoelani]

I'm so jeleous of everyone that gets to track theirs! I reserved a copy from Borders and get a percentage off too (I don't remember how much). I waited until the last minute so I'm hoping they'll honour my reservation! I still have too much of ootp to read, must get off internet and read.

[JillianS]

oh goodness. getting so excited!!!

I have the Harry Potter theme song as my cell phone ringer (it's been this for a few months-yes I am a dork) and today, it went off in the mall and a woman turned to me all excited and said "36 hours to go!!!!!" it was funny :)

we have one day of posting left...as I'm sure most of us will be MIA until we're done :)
I won't be coming to this thread until I'm done so nothing gets spoiled :)

If i don't post here before midnight tomorrow, enjoy the book ladies, I can't wait to discuss it with all of you :)

cheers!

[tlew12778]

In 13 hours I will have the new book in hand! Woohoo! I'd say I'd come back and leave the first paragraph for you all (since I am getting it 6 hrs before you) but I am thinking I will not be feeling that generous once I start reading, sorry ;).

I've been frantically trying to get all my housecleaning done this week (before work!) so as to not have to do any of it this weekend. And we're havnig a guest next week so the apt needs to be in good condition... blech.

I've actually got my OOTP here at work with me today as I still need to finish reading it (for the third time) before I head out to by HBP tonight. Good thing my boss is away and I have no work left to do :p.

[bookworm]

I have a friend in town this weekend, and as excited as I am to see him....next weekend would have been so much better. But we'll manage. The man is picking up my copy at one of the midnight parties (that I can't handle, due to crowds), so I'll probably suggest my visiting friend "sleep in, we'll have a late brunch!" to give me a few hours to start it :).

[ButterflyJen]

This cracked me up when I read it on Mugglenet:
USPS prepares for excited HBP fans
In a letter to all mail carriers, the United States Postal Service today sent out a notice informing the aforementioned of a few dangers in delivering Half-Blood Prince:

Delivery personnel should anticipate children may attempt to expedite delivery of this book on Saturday, July 16, 2005. In these instances, children will be anticipating the mail person, observe the mail delivery vehicle, approach the delivery vehicle, inquire if their book has arrived and, if so, requesting immediate receipt of their book.
Right, because it's just kids reading the book....:D

Is it so wrong to be this excited about a book??? I feel like Christmas is tomorrow!

ETA - JK has updated the FAQ poll on her website answering the latest question, in case anyone's interested. :)

[hockeybrat]

This cracked me up when I read it on Mugglenet:

Right, because it's just kids reading the book....:D

Is it so wrong to be this excited about a book??? I feel like Christmas is tomorrow!

ETA - JK has updated the FAQ poll on her website answering the latest question, in case anyone's interested. :)


I just read GoF recently and I don't remember how the Order communicates but Jo said that it was mentioned. :confused:

[camberne]

Just tracked my son's book... it's arrived at the UPS station that it will be delivered by. :)

The library in the town where he is for the summer is having a Harry Potter Day tomorrow and they're going to have games and events to celebrate the day. He's looking forward to it.

[hockeybrat]

They've closed Mugglenet.com for a few days.

[ButterflyJen]

They closed Mugglenet? I can still get in - I know you can't comment or anything though.
ETA - Ah, I see, the forums are closed for a bit.

[hockeybrat]

Oops, my bad. Their message boards are closed but the actual site is still open. Sorry!

[nordey]

Okay - here's my strategy for tonight.

My kids get home from day camp at 4:30, I'll give them a snack and put them down for a nap (aquatics camp wears them out!).

I've just purchased tickets for the 7:10 showing of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (thanks Katmg for the idea, I didn't know what I was going to do with my kids until 9:00pm when the Borders party starts). The movie theatre is in the same shopping center as Borders, where we'll go for the p