Oprah and Rowling: Top 10 Takeaways

I was enthralled with the Interview JK Rowling gave Oprah on ABC, October 1, 2010. That said, I have not read all the Harry Potter books, nor seen all of the movies. Still, If you missed it, here is a Top 10 of why an average Jane (like me) was likely glued!

1. Rowling talked openly about a period in her life where she was clinically depressed. She defined this period as having a "lack of feeling," not sadness. I realized I am not sure I understand depression.

2. Rowling did not divulge why she "cut off" her father (which happened AFTER her first successful fortune was made.) Oprah was faithful to try and pry, but JK wouldn't give it up. I respect that. But still...what was it?

3. Americans just LOVE rags to riches stories. Are we alone there?

4. Rowling confessed that though she wanted her mother to see her success (as opposed to her mother dying when she was a teenager.) She acknowledged that the Potter books would not be what they were without her own feelings of working through the death. We see this in every Potter book....Harry's search for his parents, and working through their death. Interesting and totally true.

5. Oprah confessed she is "just about there" on understanding her security in her wealth. Rowling said she is "not there yet." Billionaire author not secure in wealth? That was thought provoking.

6. Rowling recalled a book signing and the line there. She called the line "the queue." Oprah had to translate the Scottish lingo for her stupid audience, saying "Queue means line." I think America felt a bit of relief that we were assuming right...though honestly, Oprah...we got it in context. Thanks, though. (Sarcastic - I smiled when Oprah defined it. As I am sure many Americans did. Hey, it's the candid reason we have loved Oprah for years!)

7. When asked how money has changed her, Rowling immediately said, "Clothes." I thought that was odd. Then again, clothes are probably THE first thing most of us would buy. Clothes, much like a new car, can make you feel fabulous!

8. Media covered the interview blasting the message that Rowling said she was not certain she would never carry on the Potter story. Still, the message was, she wasn't intending to...just hated to "never say never." I guess avid Potter fans would care, but the interview had great merit despite that tid bit.

9. The interview was conducted in Scotland. Did Oprah have to go to Scotland to conduct the interview? Were those Rowling's terms or did "O" just opt to go? Billionaire vs. Billionaire: Rowling wins. Scotland is Rowling's home! (Do you really blame Oprah, though?) Still, quite a condition for an interview...YOU come to ME. Can you imagine saying that to Oprah?

10. I liked JK Rowling. I have never seen her in an interview. But if you missed it, you really did miss a good interview. Not only are her books admirable, but she is too!