By Joshua Huff, sports editor
The boredom of the quarantine slightly lessened for quite a few on Wednesday following JK Rowling’s announcement that she has introduced a Harry Potter digital hub to entertain adults and children alike.
“Harry Potter at Home” allows for free access to the audiobook version of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone” along with magical craft videos, fun articles, quizzes, puzzles and more for both first-time readers and those already familiar with the wizarding world. The site proclaims: “We’re casting a Banishing Charm on boredom!”
“The Harry Potter At Home hub aims to help inspire you, your family, your friends, and especially children all around the world to read for pleasure and enjoy the stories, as well as bring some magic-infused joy and entertainment to all the family,” the website posted. “But the hub is also a place for those of you who have loved Harry Potter for decades: a place for you to feel the warmth of the fire in the Gryffindor common room or a much-needed hug from Mrs Weasley.”
Rowling previously announced she was relaxing copyright permissions around the “Harry Potter” series, allowing teachers to post videos of themselves reading the seven Harry Potter books aloud to their pupils in virtual read-a-long sessions on video. This means that if you’re a teacher you’ll be able to record yourself reading Harry’s Hogwarts adventures and share these with your pupils online.
“For over twenty years now, Hogwarts has been an escape for all — for readers and fans, young and old,” the website posted. “During the strange times we now find ourselves in, we want to welcome you back to Hogwarts, where you will find a friendly retreat for you, your family and those you are caring for. Over 500 million Harry Potter books have been sold across the globe, so it’s comforting to know many homes already have a door to the wizarding world waiting to be opened once again. And for those who’ve never visited the wizarding world before, welcome!”