During the many “shelter in place” orders issued in countries around the world to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, decorated author, J.K. Rowling released At Home Harry Potter, an online portal which will allow parents and kids to read all the Potter series for free.
“Parents, teachers, and carers working to keep children amused and interested while we’re on lockdown might need a bit of magic, so I’m delighted to launch ‘Harry Potter at Home’,” Rowling tweeted Wednesday, announcing her decision to give educators an open license to read all seven Harry Potter books aloud to their children in digital read-along sessions as schools around the world remain closed amid the coronavirus pandemic.
“We’re casting a Banishing Charm on boredom!” the homepage reads. “For over twenty years now, Hogwarts has been an escape for all – for readers and fans, young and old. 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.”
Along with a number of wizard-themed activities and videos to enjoy, Rowling confirmed that the new digital hub will provide a free eBook or audiobook of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone until the end of April. If you’re an OverDrive library patron, you’ll be able to borrow Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone as an eBook or audiobook in over 20 languages from participating local and school libraries.
Days before Rowling expanded the reach of the Harry Potter universe even further, Daniel Radcliffe reflected on his quarantine experience with longtime girlfriend Erin Darke. Radcliffe, 30, told Vulture that he and Drake, 35, have been carefully practicing social distancing in New York City. Radcliffe admitted that his longtime character should serve as a good role model for those attempting to keep themselves indoors amid the coronavirus crisis.
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“I mean, that’s very much the part of the books that I feel like we wanted people to aspire to,” the British actor teased, referencing Potter’s early days spent in a cupboard under the stairs. “I think that’s really the message of the books that I remember is isolate yourselves and wash your hands.”
