A young Filipino “Potterhead” had a dream-come-true moment after meeting J.K. Rowling at the Puerto Princesa International Airport in Palawan.
Eight-year-old Sophia Sky Formaliza encountered the British novelist at the airport, where Rowling signed two of her “Harry Potter” books. The meeting left a lasting impression on the young reader, who has been a devoted fan of the series from an early age.
Sophia’s love for books began when she was just two years old, eventually leading her to the magical world of “Harry Potter” after her father bought her the book series. She shared what drew her to the story, saying, “‘Yung world po ni Harry, gusto ko po on how it is magical. There are chocolate frogs, the Sorting Hat, and the Invisibility Cloak, ‘yung mga ganun po. Very happy po ako kasi idol ko po siya at siya po ang gumawa ng ‘Harry Potter.’ Thank you to Ms J.K. Rowling, she was very kind to me.”
Photos of the encounter were later shared on Facebook by Sophia’s mother, Angie Larios Formaliza, who described her daughter as an avid reader who has gone through the series many times. “She’s basically a walking ‘Harry Potter’ encyclopedia by this time,” Angie wrote. “For two consecutive Christmases, ‘Harry Potter’-themed items were always part of her wish list.”
Angie described the meeting as a deeply meaningful experience for her daughter, adding, “It was truly a dream come true for my bookworm ate. I’m so happy for you ate Sophia Sky. Keep conquering your dreams my love.”
As of this writing, Angie’s post had garnered nearly 2,000 reactions on Facebook, with many netizens expressing joy over the young reader’s rare encounter with the author.
Rowling is the novelist behind the globally successful “Harry Potter” book series, which was adapted into a blockbuster film franchise. A new “Harry Potter” television series is currently in development for HBO Max, with Rowling serving as executive producer.
Beyond her literary work, Rowling has also remained a prominent public figure for her outspoken views on sex and gender. In recent years, she has been one of the most visible critics of aspects of contemporary transgender activism, a position that has drawn both strong support and sharp criticism worldwide and kept her at the center of ongoing cultural and political debate.
