The New York Times's Early Harry Potter Review

Yesterday the highly respected New York Times published an advance review of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, which won't officially be on sale to the public next week. It's a rather in-depth review, and reveals some minor spoilers.

Many Harry Potter fans have cried foul over the New York Times' publication of the review, stating how difficult it already is to avoid hearing about Harry Potter in less reputable news outlets.

But the publication of a book review prior to the books public sale is common practice. It helps build up anticipation, and gives those who are not sure of purchasing the book a chance to get a feel for it before plunking down the money. It's an important part of the sales and marketing process. The movie industry does it too; they send advance copies to journalists, or invite them to special screenings so they can review it before the general public is even able to see it.

Sure, Harry Potter is different. It has a huge following, and has spurred midnight launches. Few books can say that. But acting as if a review of a book before its release is out of the ordinary, or somehow done with evil intentions, is being overly dramatic. It's a review. If you don't wish to read it- don't. If you're trying to avoid finding out what happens, skip over any headlines having to do with Harry Potter. If you can restrain yourself from downloading the leaked copies, surely you can restrain yourself from reading the reviews and spoils.