Harry Potter author JK Rowling has launched a US book tour - her first in seven years - with a mass signing event in Los Angeles.
"This is an amazing treat for me," she said as she signed copies of the final Potter book for schoolchildren at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood.
"I really miss being able to interact directly with the readers," she added.
The tour continues with another signing in New Orleans on Thursday, followed by two appearances in New York on Friday.
Monday's event saw her read an extract from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and answer questions before signing a reported 1,600 copies.
"Everyone keeps saying, 'it must be so onerous. Doesn't it hurt your hand?'" she said.
Sales records
"But, honestly, that's the bit I really enjoy."
The 42-year-old also joked with reporters after one pointed out her dress had accidentally slipped down, briefly revealing her bra.
The seventh Potter book broke sales records on both sides of the Atlantic in July, selling 11 million copies in its first 24 hours.
Rowling gave no hints what she would work on next, only saying "it has to be something I adore".
"I want to fall in love with someone the way I fell in love with Harry," she explained.
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