Tell us what you love about the wizard

Twenty-six days and counting.

Until what, you ask?

Harry Potter fans know: That's how many days are left until Nov. 16, the day the film adaptation of the book "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" hits theaters.

So KidNews has a writing challenge for Hogwarts Heads of all ages. We want you to write to KidNews and tell us about:

• Part I — Harry's appeal: If you're a fan, please write and tell us: What do you find so appealing about the Harry Potter adventures? And how big a fan are you? (Optional: You can send a photo of yourself in costume or with your Potter paraphernalia to prove it.) Or, to be fair: If you are among those folks who find Harry Potter books unappealing or objectionable, please tell us why.

Responses should be 250 words or less.

• Part II — How will it all end?: Here's a creative-writing challenge for the truly HP-obsessed. Speculation has run rampant among fans over how the seven-book series will wind up. Can you predict how the tale will end? What do you think will happen to Harry, his buddies and his enemies?

Responses to this portion also should be 250 words or less.

You can respond to Part I or Part II, or both if you desire. We'll publish parts of as many letters as we can in future stories in the Island Life section.

Please write your name, city and daytime telephone number on essays and photos. Postmark by Nov. 2 and send to: Harry Potter Mania, c/o The Honolulu Advertiser, P.O. Box 3110, Honolulu, HI 96802 or fax 535-8170. You may e-mail ohana@honoluluadvertiser.com if you're 13 or older.