SOURCE: “New Heights for Harry,” in Publishers Weekly, Vol. 247, No. 16, April 17, 2000, p. 29.

In the following review, Maughan discusses the film adaptation of the “Harry Potter” books.

Film Director Chosen, Publication Date Set for Fourth Book

After three books that have, in some combination, dominated bestseller lists for more than a year and a half, and a firestorm of media attention, it might seem old-hat to refer to J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter as a phenomenon. But the term is still accurate, as Rowling's young wizard continues to blaze through uncharted territory, setting new benchmarks for popularity wherever he goes. Here, we catch up with the latest on Harry, including numerous licensing and rights deals, and the progress of the much-anticipated fourth book in the Potter series.

Back in the fall of 1998, David Heyman of Heydey Films in London (in conjunction with Warner Bros.) purchased film rights to Harry...