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Harry Potter Doesn’t Cast Much of a Spell on Most Americans
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Though avid Harry Potter fans are anxiously waiting for seventh and final release of the book series, most Americans don’t seem too interested in acquiring the next novel. And although Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows is expected to break book selling records, 77% of adults say they are not likely to purchase the next novel, which will be released at midnight on Saturday. Only 20% claim they are even somewhat likely to buy book seven. Women are slightly more likely to buy the next book than men.

Americans are much more likely to see the latest Harry Potter them film than purchase the next novel. Thirty-two percent (32%) say they are somewhat or very likely fly to theaters to see the latest film, “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.” Sixty-five percent (65%) aren’t likely to see the film at all. These figures come a week after the film has already collected over $77 million. Adults under 40 are more likely to see the next film and any other age group.

Overall, 76% of Americans have not read any of the Harry Potter books. Ten percent (10%), however, have read all of the books in the Harry Potter series. Twenty-four percent (24%) of men under 40 say they have read all of the Harry Potter books. This compares to just 8% of women under 40 who have read all the books.

Twenty-one (21%) hold a very favorable view of Harry Potter author and creator, J.K. Rowling. Another 20% have a somewhat favorable opinion. Meanwhile, 21% have an unfavorable opinion of her. Thirty-seven percent (37%) don’t know enough to have an opinion one way or the other.

Finally, roughly half of all American adults (49%) say they delve into a book at least once a month. Meanwhile, 16% rarely or never read a book and 31% say they read occasionally. A survey conducted last year revealed that reading was the most popular summer activity.

Rasmussen Reports is an electronic publishing firm specializing in the collection, publication, and distribution of public opinion polling information.

The Rasmussen Reports ElectionEdge™ Premium Service for Election 2008 offers the most comprehensive public opinion coverage ever provided for a Presidential election.

Scott Rasmussen, president of Rasmussen Reports, has been an independent pollster for more than a decade.

Survey of 1,000 Adults
July 13-14, 2007

How likely is that you will see the next Harry Potter film?

Very Likely

22%

Somewhat Likely

10%

Not Very Likely

23%

Not at All Likely

42%

How likely is that you will purchase the next Harry Potter book?

Very Likely

15%

Somewhat Likely

5%

Not Very Likely

22%

Not at All Likely

55%

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