Potter author makes public plans

Harry Potter author J K Rowling will read from her latest book

Harry Potter fans are set to enter a ballot to win a rare chance to talk to his creator J K Rowling.

The writer has said she will give a public reading from her last book in Edinburgh next month.

Ms Rowling will also answer questions at the ticket-only Edinburgh Book Festival event on 15 August.

Fans can apply for tickets via a ballot by filling in a form from 12 July on book publisher Bloomsbury's website at www.bloomsbury.com.

Restricted access

Ms Rowling said: "This will be my fifth appearance at the Edinburgh Festival.

"There have been readings for each of the first four Potter books, and this time my appearance will coincide with the UK publication of Order of the Phoenix in paperback.

"I am looking forward to this event very much because there will be a relatively small audience, which means I can see faces and take questions directly from the fans.

"Of course, events such as the readings at the Toronto Skydome and the Albert Hall are incredible but nothing can replace the pleasure of interacting with enthusiastic readers, as opposed to waving at a sea of skin coloured blobs.

"As the number of tickets is restricted, they will be available by ballot rather than on a first come, first served basis."