By DEVIN WEEKS

Staff Writer

COEUR d’ALENE — If you know the name of the Hufflepuff house ghost, the location of the Slytherin common room and how many paths lead from Hogwarts to Hogsmeade, then you'll want to fly down to the Well-Read Moose on Wednesday.

Don't forget your wand.

The bookstore, at 2048 N. Main St. in Riverstone, is throwing a birthday bash for the eponymous wizard of the "Harry Potter" series from 6 to 7:30 p.m. According to the books, Harry Potter will turn 39 years old on July 31, a birthday he shares with series creator J.K. Rowling.

"A lot of people who have read these books feel the same way toward them," bookseller and party planner Anna Rose Carleton said.

They're "magical, engaging, emotional," she said. "The writing makes you sympathize with the characters and feel emotionally invested."

The first book of seven, "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" was released in 1997 and introduced the real world to one steeped in magic and adventure as readers followed the stories of Harry Potter and his friends Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, students of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Well-Read Moose owner Melissa DeMotte said the stories were timeless and have become favorites of several generations.

"The kids that grew up on 'Harry Potter' are now parents," she said. "It's so fun to see that level of excitement because they’ve enjoyed them so much and now the parents can share that with their kids."

"Harry Potter" is a favorite family-friendly theme, especially when an occasion arises to dress like the characters.

"We’ve had people come in dressed up for Halloween," DeMotte said. "They all have different costumes in the family for 'Harry Potter.'"

Harry's 39th birthday is one such occasion. Guests of all ages are welcome to attend the free party and throw on their pointiest hats, rounded glasses and flowing cloaks for a costume contest as they connect with other Potter fans. The best dressed contestant will win a $20 Well-Read Moose gift card.

The celebration will include complimentary cake and Italian sodas (for purchase) inspired by each house — Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Slytherin and Hufflepuff.

So say "lumos!" and light up your week with some wizardry in honor of everyone's favorite boy wizard.

"The writing is so well done. It just sparks an energy within you," Carleton said. "It’s really just the magic of it all."

Info: www.wellreadmoose.com