Do I really care that Dumbledore was gay? Do you? I enjoyed the stories, and I’ll enjoy the movies no less for this revelation. Perhaps if I reread the last book, I can gain more by analyzing the headmaster’s backstory in the light of this news. J.K. Rowling’s exposure of Dumbledore’s predilection in no way distracts or enhances my reading pleasure. One wonders why she stepped forward with this bombshell now. Did she not want to offend potential readers of book seven? Put people off from seeing the latest movie? I don’t believe her fans care either way. It’s her rich storytelling and world building that has us engrossed. Or perhaps, as one news article said, the author wished to enhance people’s tolerance of the gay community by bringing the secret out now precisely when it wouldn’t matter. Readers care for Dumbledore regardless. We learn that he wasn’t infallible in the last installment, and that makes him even more human and likeable.

Anyway, reading is on the radar today in Southeast Florida. We are inundated with rain, and being dependent on sunshine for good cheer, we stay-at-homes remain indoors where books, TV, and the computer keep us entertained. It’s a bad day to get my hair done, but I’m off to the salon soon to beautify myself before we leave on a five-day cruise. As we sail south toward Grand Cayman and Cozumel, I’ll be wishing all of you a Happy Halloween.