Trans-Owned Bookshop Sparks Backlash with ‘Harry Potter’ Vandalism Fundraiser Targeting J.K. Rowling
A small bookshop in Leeds has drawn strong reactions after launching a fundraiser linked to the Harry Potter series. The shop, called The Bookish Type, is allowing customers to write and draw inside a copy of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in exchange for a small donation. The money raised will go toward transgender healthcare support.
The idea is simple. Visitors can add messages or markings to the book and pay 25p each time. Once every page is filled, the shop plans to auction the book and donate the final amount. The project has quickly gained attention both locally and online.
The Bookish Type said the idea started as a light activity connected to one of their regular second-hand book events. They told PinkNews, “We came up with this idea a few weeks ago as a silly and cathartic way to.” They added that it was meant for a later event but was introduced earlier after early interest. “It was originally going to only be on our second hand Sunday event… but we did it a week early and people love it!”
Some of the messages written in the book directly target author J.K. Rowling, who has faced criticism in recent years for her views on gender identity. One message reads, “You’ve ruined yourself, ruined the name of feminism and ruined the precious childhood of thousands of women and girls. F**** you.”
Rowling has been at the center of public debate since 2018, when she was criticized for online activity and later for comments about gender issues. In 2020, she shared a detailed statement explaining her position. She wrote, “When you throw open the doors of bathrooms and changing rooms to any man who believes or feels he’s a woman… then you open the door to any and all men who wish to come inside. That is the simple truth.”
Her stance has led to disagreement with several actors from the Harry Potter films. Daniel Radcliffe responded publicly, saying “transgender women are women.” Emma Watson also voiced support for the trans community, writing, “Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned.” Rupert Grint shared a similar message, stating, “Trans women are women. Trans men are men.”
The shop told the Daily Mail that the project is also about giving people an outlet. “Existing as a trans person in this political climate is both exhausting and terrifying; it feels especially important to give the community a way to release some emotion,” they said. They also noted that support has come from outside the UK, with people from countries like Canada, Portugal, and New Zealand showing interest or offering donations.
The Bookish Type plans to continue the fundraiser and possibly repeat it with other donated copies. They say the response so far has been very positive and that more people are getting involved.
This situation shows how divided opinions are around this topic. Some people see this as a creative way to raise money and express feelings, while others may feel it crosses a line when it comes to books that many grew up with. What do you think about this idea? Share your thoughts in the comments.
