Newsletters from The Town Book Store, Westfield, NJ

May 2007: Highlights Include: Mothers Day Reminder, Graduations Gift Ideas, Next Harry Potter on July 21, Local Artists Work, New Book from the Author of Kite Runner ... and more!
February 2007: Highlights Include: New store location, Next Harry Potter on July 21, Meet & Greet Author Appearances ... and more!
Harry Potter Party a Huge Success!
   Well over 400 Harry Potter fans of all ages gathered at The Town Book Store on the evening of July 20 to count down the final two hours before the release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. The courtyard in front of the store was converted into Diagon Alley with storefronts resembling Flourish & Blotts Book Store, Madam Malkin’s Robe Shop, and Borgin and Burkes Antique Store. Guessing games, Harry Potter trivia, and a costume contest helped keep the young Harry Potter fans occupied while they waited for midnight to arrive.
   Customer’s names were collected in a basket and shortly before midnight one lucky winner was selected for the honor of opening the first box of books and taking the first book for their very own. The winner was fittingly dressed as Hogwarts School’s best known Headmaster, Albus Dumbledore. The crowd counted down the final few seconds, “Professor Dumbledore” cut open the first box, and Harry Potter fans were on their way, eager to find out what would happen in his final year at Hogwarts. Some of the most "magical" moments of the evening were seeing the expressions of shear joy on the faces of many of the youngest partygoers as they finally held their very own copy of the long-awaited book.
   The Town Book Store would like to acknowledge a number of very special people whose contributions were so important to the success of the party: Felice Cohen and Betty Gallagher for preparing such fitting window displays in their storefronts; ShawnLeahy from Trader Joe’s for donating and serving all the great refreshments; staff members Elena and Nancy for planning the games and coordinating all the contests; staff members Laura, Grace, Kate, Julie, and Mary Jane for pitching in wherever help was needed during the party; and special friends of the bookstore Kyle, Kathleen, and William for their selfless volunteer work throughout the event. Finally, many thanks to J.K. Rowling for reinforcing the magical experience of reading to our youth and to many of us adults as well!