Marcy Diaz/Staff Writer
It’s not about wizards, secret chambers or a world inhabited by magic, but world-acclaimed author J.K. Rowling has taken the literary spotlight once again in her recently released novel, “The Casual Vacancy.” However, with the book’s synopsis suggesting a focus on adult themes and political undertones, even grown-up fans of her world-renowned children series seem to generally be at a crossroad with how they feel about reading this non-Potter novel.
“The Casual Vacancy” ironically begins where a politician’s life has abruptly ended.
Short one member in their parish council, the English town of Pagford is a seemingly well-kept community that, in truth, is unravelling with corruption. As hatred, treachery
and an overpowering thirst for control sinks deeper into civic life, the battle for Pagford’s
unsure future counts down to election day.
News of Rowling’s new series has since aroused excitement in the virtual world, resulting in its success to hold several coveted number one sale spots. Even with pre-order sales alone, stores like Amazon and Barnes and Noble had “The Casual Vacancy” at number one much before its scheduled Sept. 27 release date. However, when asked how they feel about Rowling’s new novel, FIU students responded with mixed feelings.
Long established Rowling fans, like FIU graduate Vanessa Thompson, expressed that one of the main reasons for the book’s appeal is their unwavering appreciation for the author’s storytelling skills.
“Even from when I was a kid, I’ve always loved her writing style,” said Thompson while in line to purchase her own copy of “The Causal Vacancy” at the FIU Barnes and Noble bookstore.
A number of readers also find that their admiration of Rowling’s work stays with the Harry Potter series.
Kevin Schineider, another FIU graduate said, “I was a Harry Potter fan, but with this book’s political undertone, I just feel like now I have books that are on my priority list that I’d rather read.”
But among these two sides exists the majority who have the “middle ground” opinion and believe that Rowling’s choice in changing her story angle was a right one, still feeling hesitation toward “The Casual Vacancy.”
Olivia Sanchez, an FIU junior who is majoring in psychology commented, “It sounds like an interesting read. I get the feeling she’s moving on like her fans, so it’s good seeing something different from her.”
Economics major and junior year student John Garcia also said, “It’s not Harry Potter, but I understand that she’s just moving in a different direction. I think it’s going to be difficult though, for her to break away from the shadow she created for herself.”
-marcy.diaz@fiusm.com
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