The Hogwarts Headliner Text Version

Arcane Artefacts: Darkest Dolls
by Pericles Dralt
Scarcely a few years ago, Hogwarts was terrorised by a variety of dolls imbued with Dark Magic. Dolls have been an ill omen at our school since: their innocuous guise deceives younger years, especially those who haven't heard the stories. Worse still, there's talk of a shop down a dodgy alley which sells similar creations. As Samhain nears and the days grow darker, prepare and protect yourself by learning to differentiate between them.

Hag Dolls are made from fabric scraps and straw. They take on an eerie likeness to someone specific, who has been seen at least once by the maker, though their hair and clothes may deviate. They often bear exaggerated features, such as disproportionate eyes or limbs. Though they are said to be harmless, they amass near the lair of a hag. Seeing many in one place is a sign to vacate the infested area immediately.

Dark Misfits are ragdolls filled with sawdust, three strands of hair, and bound in twine. One of these hairs must come from the child the doll is intended to represent. These nasty homunculi are sentient, yet not alive, and driven by the desire to replace whoever's hair was used to create them. When first made, they appear both inanimate and featureless, making them difficult to distinguish from regular dolls. Over weeks or months, they slowly start to take on their victim's appearance. They move under the cover of darkness, enacting increasingly cruel pranks. Their mischief can escalate into fatal acts.

Living Dolls are what Hag Dolls develop into if kept in a child's possession. Drawing nourishment from the presence of a hag's favourite food, they become strong, semi-sentient, and murderous. The first indicator of this development is that the doll may be found posed differently from how it was left. After a few weeks, the keeper will hear the occasional sound of disembodied giggling. By the time a Living Doll laughs, it has become empowered enough to hunt. Only, unlike the Dark Misfit, it does not target the person keeping it. These dolls instead seek out those closest to their holder. They mean to eliminate them in order to have the child to themselves.

Soul Jars are composed of glass blown into a humanoid shape, which, purportedly, can only be forged in dragon’s breath. These are featureless yet are occasionally adorned with the shell of an actual doll. A glowing core is their distinguishing feature, which–unlike a horcrux–houses an entire soul. Whoever's soul is trapped within the construct can be controlled by the bearer of this doll, marking it an exceedingly Dark, vile artefact. The process for binding the soul is a mystery, and only three such vessels have ever been seen.

The dolls seen in public circulation are macabre mockeries of these threats. For the integrity of this paper and the safety of its readers, I will not say where they can be purchased, but I can confirm their existence. The eerie Faceless Doll alters over time to match its owner's features and attire. It moves when not observed, as does the Creepy Teddy Bear, which is composed of multiple stuffed bears stitched into one. It sings a song about being best friends with its owner, including their name. Personal belongings tend to be moved or go missing when one such bear is around. More disturbing is the impact of owning a Wilbur Doll: when one comes into possession of him, their friends start to suffer from "strange accidents". Other dolls which move around one's room of their own accord include Enchanting Nesting Dolls, Morbid Molly, and a Puppet of Mockery, which also bullies its recipient in the voice of the sender. There is even a mock "Hag" Doll made of leather. By reaching into its mouth and down its throat, one can find a second, thumb-sized doll that typically contains a tiny treasure, such as a ring.

Remember: if any unfamiliar doll makes its way into your hands, don't keep it, don't toy with it, and certainly try not to touch it. Find a faculty member who can dispose of it accordingly.




Meet the Prefects: First Year Edition
by Alyssea Brown

A new batch of prefects have risen to the challenge, specifically those in our newest cohort. Having first year prefects isn’t unheard of at Hogwarts. We’ve had our fair share of them: Avery Leveret of Slytherin, Renelle Dalton of Ravenclaw, and Ashleigh Hazelwood of Gryffindor to name a few. Nevertheless, their presence begs the question: who exactly are these people? What makes them stand out compared to students that have already spent a year here?

Meet Oonagh Brown and Martyr Daeva-Lazarus of Gryffindor, and Myra Markab of Ravenclaw.

First of all, how would you like to be addressed? Tell us a bit about yourself.

Oonagh: You can address me as the best writer, beater, and prefect the school has yet to witness, or Oogie for short. As for about myself, I am pretty much the best person you could meet. That is why Pax for example practically begged me to join the Quidditch team.

Martyr: 'Your Highness', but if that's too much for ya then Martyr will do. Or Marty. Mars is fine too, I don't really give a [censored]... Actually come to think about it, I'd rather not be addressed at all.

Myra: Um...My name is Myra. And... I really don't know why Professor Iwasaki made me a prefect at alllll! This is a big mistake! You're older; can you help me write a re-sig-nation letter?

Already a unique trio; Gryffindor seems to have taken on more fiery personalities while Ravenclaw has stuck to the textbook. I have encouraged Myra to keep up the work before writing a resignation letter seeing as Professor Iwasaki sees potential in her.

How are you finding Hogwarts so far?

Myra: ...Scary. I've never been away from home before...

Oonagh: I already made some enemies, so I can't really complain, and the lack of maths class is refreshing.

Martyr: It's alright I guess, nuthin' real special right now. Classes and homework are super boring, and the robes are a [censored] bummer to wear around, but the food's good so I guess there are some pros. Lookin' forward to broom racing, though. Heard some super rad things about it.

It seems the ‘honeymoon’ phase of being at Hogwarts is over for these cubs. Being afraid of a new environment is completely normal for all you other first years! Though, this is the first time I’m hearing uniform complaints.

In the month and a bit you've been a prefect, has anybody given you a headache (or multiple)?

Oonagh: The paintings are jerks, especially if you forget the password to a common room or are out past curfew. Other than that, I prefer to be the one giving the headaches.

Myra: ...Maybe a few, but I don't want to be a tattle-tale...

Martyr: Naw, most in my house know to mind their own business. Although, since you mentioned it, there is this one [censored] who keeps takin' all my stuff without asking first. I'm short five hairclips and they've been missing for weeks. To the dweeb who keeps doing this: meet me at the Quidditch Pitch later. I don't want to do nuthin' bad or anything like that, I just wanna talk. My spiked boots have some questions for you.

No surprises here, though it might be best to stay safe if Martyr’s threat was directed at you. She has some mean spiked boots.

As one of the youngest people on the prefect team currently, what kind of energy do you bring (or hope to bring) to the team?

Myra: I don't know what I'm doing.

Martyr: Dread. Preferably in a cool way.

Oonagh: The not boring kind.

A spectrum of answers that are all valid. If there’s anything I’ve learned growing up, it’s that it’s okay to not be sure of who you are. We all start somewhere, after all.

A bit unconventional: imagine you're stranded in a remote forest and you're only allowed two items for the journey back to civilization. What do you bring?

Oonagh: Is a treehouse one item? A treehouse and a treasure map; I shall become a pirate and be feared by all that step foot into the forest. As well as grow my hoard of treasure.

Martyr: Probably a broom and somethin' to start a fire with. If the broom is a dud, then I could just burn the forest down. That'll solve half my problem.

Myra: ...Stranded in a remote forest? I'm from a remote forest!

Based on these answers, the dynamic these three bring will surely be an asset to the staff team; Myra with her natural survival skills, Oonagh with her ability to turn a bad situation around, and Martyr with her headstrong personality, this year is bound to be full of surprises.




A Brief History of Hogwarts Costumes
by Dorion Anderson

Halloween is coming up, and there is a wonderful history of dressing up in beautiful and silly costumes and going out trick-or-treating. Going from door-to-door collecting candy from strangers, which I know sounds weird, is incredibly fun. I used to spend my evenings after trick-or-treating trading candy with my friends, during which we made a very complicated tier system of types of candy. But that’s a whole can of gummy worms I can’t open right now. Before I get into all the costumes I’ve worn over the years, there are a couple of students that told me about their childhood costumes!

Aodhan Shaw dressed up as Deadpool for Halloween when he was around 10, just before Hogwarts! I’m surprised his parents let him dress up as Deadpool, let alone watch Deadpool, but that is an incredibly cool costume for a 10-year-old. For those who don’t know, Deadpool is a sort of Muggle superhero. Except he’s not. He’s kind of like an anti-hero, more than anything.

Kiana Nakamura was never a fan of scary costumes or character costumes. Her mom preferred to dress her in beautiful kimonos. An important note, readers, that other cultures' traditional wear should not be worn simply as a gimmick garment. Kiana’s mother is from Japan, thus making it her culture to dress her daughter in.

Haven Bohannon had lots of fun costumes as a child, and one of my favourites that she showed me was her dressed up as fairy floss! How adorable is she in this costume? Honestly, I wish my costumes were as cute as Haven’s when she was a kid. Maybe… I’ll dress as candy floss one of these years.

There have been many costumes over the years at the various balls and functions that we’ve had at Hogwarts over the years. It’s always so fun to see people let out their creativity and be someone else, even if it’s just for an evening. This year, I think I’m going to dress up as Howl Pendragon from Howl’s Moving Castle, but this isn’t to talk about current and future costumes, it’s a focus on childhood costumes!

If you didn’t want to know this much information about me, then, well, don’t read this article, I suppose, because we’re about to go through some of my favourite costumes that my mum and grandma sewed for me throughout the years. I’m incredibly grateful to have all of my costumes handmade by my family, and they’re all still in a trunk somewhere, I think. My mum refuses to get rid of them.

As a baby, I obviously had no choice in the matter because I was barely capable of having thoughts and holding my head upright. My first costume was when I was 6 months old, and I was a little daisy! My head, of course, was the centre of the flower. I was just about as cute as I could be. The daisy has always been my grandmother’s favourite flower, so it makes sense that it was my first costume.

For a lot of my childhood, my parents were really into showing me some more vintage children’s TV shows they loved, and one of those was the Care Bears TV series from the 1980s. When I was… six years old, I believe, I was Funshine Bear! I was incredibly smiley and bright as a child, so it only made sense. Funshine Bear is a bright yellow bear with a sun on its belly that’s wearing sunglasses.

My last costume before coming to Hogwarts was Isabelle from Animal Crossing! This is a game I’ve talked about before in Muggle Item of the Month. She’s a dog that helps the player character as a secretary. Funnily enough, she’s a Shih Tzu, and I’m a Golden Retriever animagus. It’s kind of funny how things come full circle. I honestly just thought she was adorable when I was ten, and I still do. She is the underappreciated backbone of Animal Crossing.

While there may not be trick-or-treating in the castle, there is still plenty of opportunity to dress up and have fun with your friends. Especially if you can go to Honeydukes in Hogsmeade. Maybe you can participate in the candy trading ritual I once did. Get silly and dress up as your heroes, or your enemies, whatever floats your boat. The point is to have fun!

Happy Halloween to all of you in Hogwarts!





Coming Soon: The Gala of Mysteries
by Xiomara Torres

If you had fun at the Summer Camp then be prepared for the next big event – the Gala of Mysteries! Invites have been sent out. We’re looking forward to the 19th of October: it is a night covered in secrets, but this reporter managed to get a little bit of insight into the event. Rumours and whispers, perhaps. Though this was no easy task with the event being shrouded in mystery, after all.

At the ball, grab your dance partners and get ready for a night where the darkness prevails. Be sure to dress to impress – outfits should fit the style of ‘30s to ‘60s Muggle. If you don’t know what that means, it’s time to bust out your grandparents’ or great grandparents’ old movie collection and get inspired! Think outfits from movies like The Dark Mirror (1946), The Leopard Man (1943) or Calling Mr Death (1943). These movies are rated PG, so be sure to check with your parents first!

If you cannot access those movies and still need inspiration, though, you want black and white: old school, but demure. Think elegant, sophisticated, glamorous, suave. The ‘30s were known for their satin and silk gowns, tweed suits, lots of frills and cute hats. The ‘40s brought along square-shouldered jackets paired with a simple blouse and matching skirt. They also came with button-up shirts, wide-leg trousers, suspenders and fedoras or newsboy caps! Accessories like gloves, fascinators and a pearl necklace would do wonders. With the ‘50s, you’re looking at formal and elegant clothing. And if you want to go for the ‘60s, try a high neckline, bright solid colour dress. Think Audrey Hepburn fashion if you want to dress in the theme.

Once you’re dressed up for the occasion, grab your friends and head over to the dance floor. Though we have heard there may be a maze involved – perhaps you will struggle to find the dance floor or the food? There is also a murder mystery, very fitting with the theme of horror as these movies were always about murder and death! Could you be the one to solve the mystery or get through the maze first?

Brace yourself, you may need some courage to face the mysterious gala. Though, hopefully, you will be able to find the food as we heard it is going to be delicious! However… perhaps you may hesitate to try it if you look too closely!

I, for one, am incredibly excited to see what this mysterious event brings and to discover the secrets of the murder mystery. Make sure you are dressed the part to get into your role!

Look out for the photographer who will be there, ready to snap your glorious outfits, and we’ll see you on the 19th!

XOXO, XIO





The Most Peculiar European Traditions on Halloween
by Meyra Lancaster

The scariest day of the year has arrived again, so we can celebrate it by giving shape to our spookiest and most ghostly creations! This is a holiday celebrated since ancient times. The origin of the word Halloween begins with the expression All Hallows’ Eve, and in some European countries, it still goes by this name, although in their original languages, it is called the All Saints’ Day.

This is a day associated with the popular celebration of the cult of the dead. It was believed that with the approach of winter, the two worlds (that of the living and that of the dead) would collide with each other, thus opening the veil that separates them and allowing the spirits of the dead to visit their families. It was for this reason that food and wine were left at the doorstep, so that the spirits, being happy and content with full bellies, would not torment those who lived in the house! But to avoid having to face a particularly unhappy and grumpy spirit, people began to disguise themselves as ghosts, to camouflage themselves amongst them. Smart!

Around the world, different forms of celebration have been adopted and adapted to different cultures. I bring you, dear reader, some of the more strange and peculiar examples that we can find in Europe. For example, did you know that in Germany, they hide all the knives that they have at home? It's true; this way, no one can get hurt. Obviously, it also comes with an advantage: if there is a more vengeful soul, its job will become a little more difficult, as it will not be able to find a sharp blade.

But that's not the only way Muggles protect themselves from their so-called ghosts. In Galicia, Spain, they prepare and drink the well-known queimada. This drink needs a whole ritual to be prepared in order to ward off evil spirits and witches, including reciting the Conxuro, which Muggles believe to be a protection spell. It is a drink based on aguardiente and sugar where other ingredients are also mixed, which vary according to different regions.

Oh! And did you know that the souls of the dead live in fava beans? No? Then that’s because you've never heard of Fave Dei Morti. In Italy, it was once believed that by eating the beans where souls resided, it was possible to talk to the dead! The bean is actually a very delicious sweet, a sugar cookie in the shape of a fava bean. The Muggles who eat them probably won’t be able to have a good conversation with Nearly Headless Nick, but at least they will have eaten a delicious treat!

In Ireland, if you are looking for your soulmate, the best thing you can do is cut off a lock of your hair, throw it into the fire and dream about your future loved one. This will be the person you marry! Congratulations! Much easier than preparing a bottle of Amortentia!

As you can see, Halloween takes the form of many different traditions, some more eccentric than others. Do you know of any traditions you want to share with your friends? Will you try to talk to some winged souls by eating a sweet fava bean, or will you create a love spell through fire? I hope you cast all the protection spells you know and make the most of this holiday with your friends. Have fun!




Magical Mythos: Headless Horsemen
by Pericles Dralt

The Dullahan, or “Dark Man”, is a malicious phantom from Celtic mythology. Commonly called the Headless Horseman, it originates from an embodiment of the fertility god Crom Dubh. In exchange for healthy cattle and prosperous grain crops, this ancient deity demanded human sacrifice via decapitation. Upon Christianity's arrival in Ireland in the sixth century, such rituals were condemned, and over time stamped out altogether. Celtic pagans believed that Crom Dubh took physical form as a ghastly rider, roaming the lands to continue collecting these sacrifices on his own accord.

Depictions of the Dullahan vary. He is most often described as a headless rider either astride a black horse or driving a carriage pulled by six black horses which snort fire. Some stories say he carries his decomposing head in his hand, with blazing eyes and doughy flesh, though tamer stories replace his head with a jack-o-lantern. He wears a billowing cloak said to be darker than night itself, paving a bloody path across Ireland with either a sword, an axe, or a whip fashioned from human spines. Legends claim that to look upon him is to risk being blinded by his whip. The Horseman only speaks to utter the name of his intended victim, who is doomed to encounter him thereafter. Throwing gold at the ground before him is said to protect anyone except this target.

This mythological creature is commonly tied to the north of Ireland, particularly County Sligo and County Down. The American retelling, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, spins the old Irish tale into a story about a vengeful ghost. Author Washington Irving wrote the Horseman as a German soldier who was decapitated by a cannonball during the American Revolution. Some stories say he hunts for the unmarked grave where his head lies, or he takes the heads of others out of bitterness for his fate, dragging unfortunate souls back to the afterlife with him.

Hogwarts boasts our own cavalry of headless horsemen, though these are, luckily, less violent than the Dullahan of lore. This organisation of ghosts goes by the name the Headless Hunt. You might have found yourself caught up in the middle of one of their games, such as Head Polo or Headless Bowling. Some of them are especially adept at Horseback Head-Juggling. Because these grisly sports require the literal use of one's detached head, one must have been fully decapitated in death to be considered for membership. Its leader, Sir Patrick Delaney-Podmore, makes no exceptions to the standard. Resident Gryffindor ghost Sir Nicholas de Mimsy-Porpington, affectionately known as Nearly Headless Nick, has long bemoaned his inability to join on account of his head being attached by "half an inch of skin and sinew". This has not dissuaded him from applying on an annual basis.





An Amazing New Broom Sport: Trick Riding
by Xiomara Torres

The world of magic is overwhelmingly and incredibly full of new, exciting things – particularly for those with more of a Muggle upbringing. However, something new is always around the corner, even for pureblood families. You may have thought the sole purpose of a broom was for transport or to partake in a friendly game of Quidditch or broom racing. You would be wrong in that thought, though!

Today, I wanted to introduce a new craze that is amazing to watch: trick riding. All it requires is a broom and creativity – and, perhaps, a lot of guts. I had the absolute pleasure of witnessing this first hand at the summer camp this year. Sixteen-year-old Hufflepuff Aaron Jones was showing off his skills and mastery of the broom, with a beautiful snowy owl called Chae-rin by his side. Flying through moving hula hoops, spiralling through the sky and doing more 180- or 360-degree turns than a rollercoaster ride, Jones was sailing through the sky smoother than a pirate at sea! He even added magic into the show, enlarging the hoops midair, and I have heard that he also likes a good spark or two!

It was even more exciting than watching a Quidditch game or broom race, though perhaps quickly as dangerous. This is one sport where you don’t require a full team, but having an owl companion enhanced Jones’ act, in my humble opinion. It was truly magnificent seeing how the pair interacted with each other, as well as how they handled their individual tricks.

Yes, you heard that right. Jones performed tricks at high speed and grand heights in the sky, acting as one with the clouds, alongside a large owl who mimicked his moves or did her solo tricks. Now, don’t try this without proper practice! He spent years practising, after all, and his moves became harder and riskier as his skill developed. Jones has a new fan in this reporter! It takes a certain amount of fearlessness and boldness even to try such a thing. I got to chat very briefly with the man, the myth and the legend myself, and even gave the stunning Chae-rin a little pat! Jones explained that he was practising on the ground for some years prior with things like parkour! Who knew parkour could lead to trick riding?!

Jones’ fans can rest easy as he has no intention of giving up now, and we at the Hogwarts Headliner cannot wait to see what more he does over time and how he develops in this sport. We suspect that we will be seeing another show coming soon – The Aaron Jones Trick Riding Show. Be sure to get a front seat so you can enjoy this glorious act in person, too, because words really cannot capture the magic of it!

See you there, as I’ll be reporting live at future shows for sure!

XOXO, XIO





Muggle Item of the Month: Insulated Cups
by Dorion Anderson

Have you ever been drinking a beverage and wishing it could stay the same temperature for several hours? Yes, of course, we have spells. But sometimes, there is magic in Muggle simplicity. Specifically, one of the items that I make sure to always pack in my trunk for my return to Hogwarts is one of my favourite Muggle inventions of all time: the insulated water bottle. These normally boast the ability to keep your drink hot or cold (depending on the cup itself) for several hours.

There are many brands that exist, but today, I’ll be focusing on three of the most iconic cups that have taken over popular culture, becoming household brand names that most any Muggle-born can recognise. I’ll be finishing with my personal favourite. All of these brands have different types of bottles, but I’ll be focusing on the most iconic.

The Stanley Cup
This was the first cup to really go viral, and kind of has a cult following at this point. People will line up before stores open, early in the morning, to wait for new colour drops. There are people that will have shelves full of these cups, and they average around £45.00, holding 1.2L of an icy beverage. These have a handle on the side, a lid, and a straw… but they leak incredibly easily. People even make “Pack My Stanley” videos to post on TikTok (a whole different article, don’t worry). They attach them to a bag, with hand sanitiser, lip stick, a jewellery container, just so many items. I can’t imagine how heavy it ends up being, and most of the time they’re going on a short walk. These cups have a mild cult following.

Frank Green
This brand is based in Australia and kind of had a phenomenon similar to that of the Stanley Cup. They didn’t quite get the traction that Stanley did internationally, but on social media, they were still incredibly popular. While they have the same function and the same collectability with colour drops, they have a slightly different design than the Stanley cups. You can actually choose your lid preference for these: a straw you can flip up, a lid that you have to twist off (more secure for travelling), or a weird push button lid. For a 1L bottle, they start at £34.99, and you can pay an extra £5.99 to get it monogrammed.

Owala
These are my favourite insulated bottles of all time, and if you try to take mine, I will hex you before you can blink (no one tell the professors). They have a base set of colours, but frequently do special colour drops that you have to enter a raffle to be chosen to buy. For a 950mL bottle you’re looking at £39.99. But honestly, it’s worth it. You have two options for drinking out of it, sipping out of the straw, or tilting it up to chug. It has a pop button lid that is protected by a little loop that prevents it from popping open when it's in your bag. It also doubles as a way to carry it around if it's pulled up. These are the newest of the three brands on the scene, but they’ve stolen hearts and made it into a lot of major stores.

Also, the benefit of all of these is that you can cover them in stickers. How can you go wrong with that? If you want one and you don’t have Muggle connections, hit me up, and we can get you one somehow.





Advice from Simon Kincaid
Dear Simon,

Although I am a first-year student, I see everyone else making lots of friends here at Hogwarts and I still have none. None. Not one. I don’t talk to anyone in my classes and I bury my head in a book during meal times. How can I fix this problem?

Signed,
Friendless Amongst the Magic

Dear Soon-to-be NOT Friendless Amongst the Magic,

The best way to make friends is to get out there and start talking to your classmates! Ask a question to or compliment someone who sits near you before class starts or after class and break the ice. Once you start talking to one another, maybe you’ll find some shared interests. There are also lots of clubs here at Hogwarts where you can find some like-minded individuals. Also, if you like books, check out the Library and find some fellow lovers of literature and knowledge and strike up a conversation. A little talking can go a long way in getting to know someone. Best of luck!


Dear Simon,

I want better grades. All my friends get higher marks than I do on assignments and exams. What can I do?

Signed,
Desperately Seeking More

Dear Seeking More,

The more that you’re seeking is a dedicated commitment to your classes, something that can instil the material into your mind and submerge it into your heart. Take those friends with high marks and form a study group. You can strengthen each other and create some fond memories while doing so.


Dear Simon,

Did you know that vampires, werewolves, giants, and other terrifying creatures are among us at Hogwarts? How is anyone supposed to sleep at night?

Signed,
Terrified By Creatures That Go Bump in the Night

Dear Approaching Sleep,

Toward the beginning of the night, create a restful sleeping environment. Ensure you have a comfortable pillow and something to cover up with, close those eyes, and relax. There are werewolves and part giants/goblins/vampires within the student body at Hogwarts and we too (yes, I am one of these not-so-terrifying-creatures, a dhampir) want a good night’s rest for ourselves and our classmates. You are safe, and you needn’t worry about us more than any other student. We are your friends. We are your Hogwarts family.


Dear Simon,

Everyone has a date to the Fall Ball but me. My best friend has a date. My kid brother has a date! That awkward girl who licks the feather of her quill during EVERY Charms class has a date! What should I do?

Signed,
Forever Dateless It Seems

Dear Nothing-Is-Ever-As-It-Seems,

If you REALLY want a date to the dance, start asking! I know there are a lot of students out there hoping to catch one, just as you are. If that should fall through, ask a friend. Many students opt out of looking for a romantic partner and instead go with a close friend or even a group of friends. And if that doesn’t work? Go solo! Dances at Hogwarts always offer excitement, and you never quite know what you’ll get yourself into… but remember to bring your wand.


Dear Simon,

What is your best advice? Do you have any ‘words to live by’ for us?

Signed,
Curious

Dear Curious,

I penned my mantra when I first joined the Hogwarts Headliner as a writer and have tried to slip it into each edition that I am part of. It hasn’t changed. I have always striven for this, always will strive for this, and hope that others will, too:

Be Kind to One Another.





Cosy Up With a Good Read
by Dorion Anderson

It’s that time of year again when the air is cold, and the leaves are crisping up and falling. It is the best time to cuddle up somewhere in a cosy little sweater with a mug of warm tea and crack open a book (if you have free time, I know). Here are my top recommendations, although I’m not sure how to get the Muggle books here. Maybe our librarian can help?

1. Gwen & Art Are Not in Love by Lex Croucher
   This is a lovely historical fiction book set in Arthurian England that takes place about 100 years after King Arthur was, well, king! His descendant, Arthur, and the Princess of England are betrothed. But not everything goes as planned! Of course not, because then the book wouldn’t be a book. There’s lots of queer representation of all kinds, action, adventure, and romance!
2. The Letters of Enchantment Series by Rebecca Ross
   This is a beautiful duology. I was so upset I had to wait for the sequel, but it was well worth it! There is amazing word-building of mythos, magic, rivalries, and finding connection. Honestly, I’ve never wanted a typewriter more than after reading these two books. Trust me, you’ll be holding your breath during the second book. I wasn’t able to devour it quickly enough to get to the ending.
3. The Princess and the Grilled Cheese by Deya Muniz
   Honestly, this isn’t quite categorised as a cosy read. It is also a graphic novel. But I’d be remiss not to put in a book that makes me think of myself and my boyfriend. It’s incredibly self-gratifying, but give me a break. This has even more queer representation that I loved seeing myself in. If you need a study break, a palette cleanser, this is where to find it. I have a personal copy if you want to borrow it, but if you don’t give it back, I will find you.
4. Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree
   There’s another book in this series called Bookshops & Bonedust, and they’re not necessarily connected. This is a beautiful series of found family, and categorically it’s labelled as cosy fantasy. This is a low stakes book where you don’t have to worry about a big adventure. You can just enjoy people finding each other in unexpected places. Sometimes, you don’t want characters on the verge of death or searching for their destinies. Sometimes, you just want to see someone find their chosen family.
5. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
   This is a very fun book based on old pictures that the author found. It tells a story of children with special powers, the things that want to destroy them, and the people that protect them no matter what. It’s an entire series of books, but honestly, I was satisfied with just reading the first one. For my friends out there with access to Muggle technology, there is a movie! Of course, it doesn’t do the book justice, but it’s a lovely overall experience and concept.

Honestly, these are just my Muggle recommendations. There’s probably plenty of fun magic fiction books that would be just as cosy (and more readily available). This would be a great opportunity to visit our beautiful library and speak to our resident librarian! It’s not just a place for studying, you know. Plenty of opportunities await within the realms that are discovered within the pages of a book.

Coincidence or Calculated? Disaster Explodes in Hogsmeade
by Alyssea Brown

Just four days before the annual Hogwarts Fall Ball, twenty-eight lives were lost in an explosion at Hogsmeade and forty-seven were left injured. The casualties included four headmasters from the international schools, specifically Tenūsa, Castelobruxo, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang. The headmasters of Koldovstoretz and Uagadou were last reported to be in critical condition, while the headmasters of Ilvermorny and Mahoutokoro disappeared following the disaster.

“My heart goes out to all of those who lost their lives and were affected in this tragedy.” – Prof. Toussaint

“It’s incredibly devastating to have lost such significant figures. Even I am feeling the loss.” – Prof. Clairmont

A few Hogwarts students and staff were there when the disaster struck. According to Hufflepuff student EmmaLee LeDames, two carriages exploded and triggered a series of fires that caused widespread damage and injury. Some people were still in these carriages when they exploded. The surrounding buildings on High Street were subsequently burned, though were quickly extinguished.

“My best friend and many others were 'orribly injured, but many who were not and the adults jumped immediately to action to 'elp get others to safety and 'eal the injured. It was a terrifying experience. Every school was attacked that day.” – EmmaLee LeDames

Another student who witnessed the event was Gryffindor duelling co-captain, Raizel Voltrouz, who had initially gone to accompany a friend for an errand. She described the scene as “nothing but chaos, a scene that will leave a lasting memory for eternity.”

Professor Blumenthal, Professor Clairmont, and Professor Toussaint were some of the Hogwarts Professors on the scene. They were mostly unharmed, though Prof. Toussaint got burned from the blast, and helped evacuate students towards Hogsmeade Station which had become the unanimous assembly point away from the chaos.

“I’d thought we were under attack. You know, I’ve been around dragons recreationally, and most dangerous creatures you can imagine…and I still think that may have been the most frightened I’ve ever been.” – Prof. Blumenthal

“It was like a scene from a nightmare. I can still feel the heat on my skin. Hear the screams. See the terror in the eyes of those around me. One moment, I was welcoming my children and my Fabian to Hogsmeade, and the next, explosions. I feared the worst for my loved ones. I thought it was the end.” – Prof. Toussaint

The Hogwarts biannual balls and summer camp are the only times in the year where international connections can be forged, both between staff and students. Yet, they are also a hotspot for tragedy. Buildings have gone up in flames; students have drowned; a child was stabbed and another was possessed. Surprisingly, these disasters only seem to happen in Hogwarts. Why is that?

“It felt heavy knowing how many lives were lost that day, a squeezing sensation in my chest. And to think someone planned it pisses me off.” – Raizel Voltrouz

There is some suspicion that the event was a direct attack at the new admission policies across the wizarding education system. These were implemented in August. Up until this point, the international schools only admitted humans; Hogwarts was the only school to admit half-breed children in its enrollment zone since March 2020. The success of this admission policy may have sparked the global trend for change.

Blood prejudices are not new; it has taken generations for Wizarding Britain to accept half-bloods and Muggle-borns, considerably improving since the Second Wizarding War which originated from blood prejudices. While most of wizarding society is now accepting of these blood statuses, it is naive to assume these prejudices don’t exist anymore. Unfortunately, some prejudices cannot be eradicated overnight, especially if they are deeply rooted into culture. As such, this attack may have stemmed from these inherent biases of blood purity.

Alternatively, groups that opposed the admission policies may have done so out of fear. More conservative majorities may have felt threatened by the inclusion of special races in magical education, believing their admission may lead to a scarcity of resources in schools. While the internal conflicts surrounding this policy in other schools are a private matter and not one I necessarily want to dive into, the fact that some schools now have a small population of half-breeds may have amplified this perceived threat to the conservative majority.

Speculation out of the way, no one is certain what could’ve caused this attack as the perpetrator has not been caught. Officials have reminded people to keep an open mind while investigations are still underway. However, with the events surrounding this disaster, it is unlikely to be a coincidence.

Had this change occurred twenty years ago, the response may have turned out to be very different to what happened last month. Or it could’ve ended in exactly the same way: fire and explosions.





Prehistoric Pureblood Practices: Modernise Magical Marriages!
by Aly Salinger

It’s not an uncommon belief that youthful romantic relationships at Hogwarts have spiralled quite a bit out of control. First-years snogging in the corridors, second-years fancying sixth-years, and dramatic breakups affecting inter-house unity? What has the world come to?

One might argue that all of this pressure to enter the amorous scene so quickly in students’ young lives stems from an antiquated wizarding belief that the younger wix are married, the better. This point of view is especially prevalent amongst pureblood families and blood purists, in which parents may not only push their children into adolescent nuptials, but also force them to get engaged before they’re even of age – and decide their child’s life partner without consent. Yes, you read that right – let’s discuss the barely-legal, ancient pureblood tradition of compulsory underage betrothals.

To make this clearer, it’s not that pureblood parents are prone to pushing their progeny into pledging their troths before they’re even legally allowed to use magic outside of school. The children are simply being promised, not actually married – at least, not until they’re of age to do so.

Various cultures of Muggles worldwide seem to be doing away with ancient marriage traditions such as wedding one’s cousin or arranging one’s future spouse. Muggles in England, in fact, stopped seeing youthfully-organised betrothals in the eighteenth century; instead, they pushed for an individual’s right to choose their betrothed, and it is a crime in Muggle England today to force someone (especially a child) to marry someone else.

Sorcerous society, on the other hand, is still rather entrenched in the tradition.

Just ask any one of many already-engaged students at Hogwarts, some of whom were betrothed as young as their early teens: for instance, Slytherin’s own Opeila Winters – or is it Virtanen now? Anyway, Winters was betrothed to Ilvermorny student Miles Thatcher when the pair were, respectively, fifteen and fourteen. Naturally, this cross-the-pond engagement was a result of parental meddling and political pursuits – both on the parts of Winters’ official guardians and Thatcher’s parents, the latter of whom are none other than renowned magizoologists Aldrich and Emmeline Thatcher. It’s sensible to want to align one’s family with another, equally powerful one, but to do so by promising your teenager’s life away may be a bit of an overstep.

Then again, it’s not like these teenagers don’t still have free will! In fact, many betrothed purebloods may have dalliances outside their engagement – perhaps proving that they may not have wanted to be promised in the first place. Winters and Thatcher, specifically, have both been said to have dated out-of-contract in the past. For those of you at Hogwarts, Miss Winters has been previously involved with two other current sixth years: Gryffindor Alec Mason and, most recently, Hufflepuff heartbreaker Aaron Jones. She was also spotted publicly snogging Slytherin Percival Gray at this summer’s Mistletoe Spin. If you were engaged and wanted to be so, would you philander about with others whilst waiting to turn of age to marry? Methinks not!

Not every betrothal is against the participants’ will, though. Because of these common cases of contrived child coupling, it might even be argued that students at Hogwarts idealise this type of untimely union, even going so far as to offer marriage to one’s significant other before even taking one’s first O.W.L. Fresh in everyone’s minds will be the pink-pigmented public proposal at this year’s Fall Ball, in which resident redhead item Mathias Pride and Winnie Harper officially put a ring on it. Perhaps one of the school’s most controversial couples, this incident did nothing to reduce their notoriety – and it has the school talking, not all of it good.

Muggle-born students who are just now learning of this less-than-modern magical practice are calling the concept “completely wack”, as with young Slytherin Matthew Campbell, who called the pureblood concept of keeping bloodlines ‘pure’ “nothing but ignorance”. “To me, love isn’t transactional,” said Campbell, who also admitted about Muggle dating life: “Things aren’t perfect in the Muggle world… but at least it’s genuine.”

Even students from strongly magical families have begun to take stands against early betrothals, though they are perhaps not as keen to share their opinions so publicly. One anonymous wizard-born student called arranged marriages “unethical” and “very disrespectful”, telling the Headliner, “This isn’t your marriage, but your kids’. You have no reason to interfere in their choices.”

How many purebloods, then, might agree with this stance? How many children could have been saved from unhappy marriages, once they came of age, if they’d had someone stand up for them during their youth? How many seemingly perfect relationships have actually been brought on by the heavy familial indoctrination of boyhood betrothals within wizarding kids’ burgeoning young minds?

Reflect on this, then, and decide for yourself if you agree with this bold statement: stop the prehistoric practice of early engagements, and modernise magical marriages!





Boredom Breakers for Class
by Oonagh Brown

We all know the issue of classes going on forever and not being able to find a way to pay attention much longer (if one had paid attention at all in the first place), when boredom strikes. What some students are, however, completely unaware of, or seem oblivious to, are great ways to break said boredom. Considering this is the start of another term, lack of interest and boredom are wired into our brains. We are students, after all! This does not just go for those of us who would rather not be in class at all, but also for those who feel ahead of the curriculum.

Good news for you, however: there are many fun ways to at least kill some time and make classes go further. A list of 5 ways to kill time is:
- Games
- Messages
- Pranks
- Distractions
- Interruptions

Games
Well, of course, the most logical thing to do would be to pay attention, but who in their right mind would choose to do that when they could play games instead? There are a few games one could play, most famously the game of Tic Tac Toe, which, admittedly, might sound boring at first, but is always fun. One thing you should remember, for the above-mentioned game is that you need a quill, ink and parchment or some paper that you won’t feel bad about wasting. Another game would only need paper and is a much better use of your time as it is much more enjoyable: turn them into little paper spheres, and try to flick them at people in the rows in front of you. The further in the back you sit, the more likely you are to get away with it, and the higher you can score as the further the row is away from you, the more points you can score. Make it a competition with your neighbour, perhaps, for some extra challenge.

Messages
Well, this one is pretty self-explanatory and only requires you to have friends… or enemies! Simply write secret messages to either and wait for them to reply back. It is a bonus if you combine the game of throwing paper at other students with the notes on paper.

Pranks
Pranks can be mean, but for the person who sets up the prank, it is usually pretty fun. Here are a few suggestions that could sabotage your enemies or friends and make them think twice about messing with you while you can sit back and enjoy as they figure it out eventually. One is Invisible Ink: simply switch out another person’s ink with one that will disappear over time, leaving them with a lack of notes at the end of class. Another thing is to mess with someone’s stuff. Just keep in mind that whenever they are focused on something else, it's time to switch out their materials or place them elsewhere within their stuff. Watch as they are confused or try to fight you once they grow suspicious of you.

Distractions
And by that, I mean distract yourself. Find something that can grab your attention. Perhaps watch others or start to doodle on your notes. Other than that, you could count things or do random stuff. Perhaps consider having something you could fidget with? Some things make it easier to fidget, like things that have a tag or something that can be manipulated. Otherwise, consider bringing something specifically to class for this. Other than that, consider braiding your hair if you have long enough hair.

Interruptions
Be aware that this is likely to land you in detention, which makes it all the more exciting. Distract the professor or the other students. Talk to your friends, and do not care about being an interruption. Or specifically interrupt the professor by either making noises or answering their questions in witty ways that the professor might not be expecting. In short: be a nuisance and channel the chaos to make others suffer at the cost of your boredom.

Be aware that while I stand by those methods, your actions will have consequences such as possibly landing yourself in detention, making new enemies or awakening your inner artist.






Pet Spotlight: Feline Familiars
by Rebecca Lark

One of the hardest decisions I had to make during my time at Hogwarts was what pet I wanted to bring with me to school. Whatever pet you choose will become your companion for the entirety of your academic career (barring any unforeseen accidents), so choosing the right pet can have a sort of inflated weight attached to it. It’s important to pick the pet that’s right for you, rather than whatever seems like the coolest or most popular choice; however, there’s so many options to choose from that picking just one can feel daunting.

When I went to the Menagerie during the winter hols last year, it was with the intention of bringing a cat back home with me. Instead, I found my ferret, Crumb: the sweetest, silliest, and all-around dumbest creature I could ever imagine. I wouldn’t trade Crumb for anything, but it’s interesting to look back at the paths not taken, the what-could-have-beens. As such, for those of you who will be choosing a pet this year, I intend to walk you through each of your myriad of options. I’ll be starting with my initial choice: cats.

Currently, the Magical Menagerie has eleven different breeds of cats on offer: the Silver Siberian, the Silver Mackerel Tabby, the Red Mackerel Tabby, the Egyptian Mau, the Red Classic Tabby, the Bengal, the Chartreux, the Classic Siamese, the Brown Classic Tabby, the Gray Mackerel Tabby, and the Bewitched Midnight Stalker. While you’ll see standard associated personalities for each breed listed on signage at the shop, you should take care to remember that cats each have their own unique personalities, like people do. There’s no guarantee that your purportedly gentle and low-energy Chartreux won’t end up as a chatty, high-maintenance familiar with a love for adventure and an endless fount of energy. Don’t believe everything you see on the tin.

Cats are great for the students who want a more up-close-and-personal companion. If you’re looking for a pet to sit with you while you study and cuddle you when you’re sad, then a cat might be a good option for you. Cats also tend to be more independent creatures, and most are happy to live their own lives, wandering about the castle while you attend your classes. Cats don’t require any complicated terrariums or enclosures, and though maybe less useful than an owl in the sense that they can’t deliver your letters (unless they’re very talented), they’re sturdy, portable and can accompany you most anywhere you’d like to go at Hogwarts.

To better understand the benefits of choosing a cat, I put out a call to our student body, asking them the following questions: one, why did you choose a cat, and two, what is your favourite part about having one?

"I've wanted to get a cat since I first visited Diagon Alley. There were all these amazing animals but I felt drawn to the cats the most. My overall favourite thing about her is that she's always there for me when I'm sad." – Elizabeth Stonewall

"There's hundreds of animals I could have as a pet. Nothing else matches me as well as cats do. Cats either love people, or they're ready to fight you, just like me. I was lucky enough to have Casey wander into my life. He's my heart and soul and everything I love about the world. I don't really relate to lots of magical people, but I can always relate to Casey. Cats are understanding. Casey specifically. We're also both picky about people, so when no one else meets our standard, I can meet his and he can meet mine." – Sage Willows

“I always loved cats!! I never thought I’d get to have one for myself, but when my mum let me, I got Dauncey because he was the biggest one there. Nobody wanted him because he wasn’t a kitten, but I love his size, even if he sometimes sits on my homework! He’s great for cuddling with after a long day and is my beloved big boy.” – Aly Salinger

“Buttons is my little guy! He may seem like a lazy, sleepy cat. But honestly he’s been there for me through everything. He was the first living thing that found out I was non-binary. He’s perfect honestly, I don’t know what I would do without him. He’s my best friend.” – Dorion Anderson

"Hermes is a little shit." – Astra Norrick

With the exception of certain “little shit” cats, it’s clear that cats can be some of the most loving companions available on the market. I’d still take Crumb over a cat any day, but if you’re looking to find yourself a new furry friend, a cat might just be the purrfect choice for you.





Magical & Muggle Meals: Soup Leaky, Leaky
by Aly Salinger

Welcome back to Magical & Muggle Meals – and this time, not only do we have a fantastically soupy new recipe for you, there’s some steaming hot tea to go with it. The gossip kind, not the brewed kind.

In the September edition of the Headliner, a rather accusatory article (written by yours truly) was published in critique of the popular Diagon Alley pub and lunch-stoppe known as the Leaky Cauldron. The article alleged that the ten different soups offered on the pub’s Luncheon Menu were actually none other than one large, same soup being sold at varying prices to fool diners into paying more for a lesser lunch. In order to clear the air, we have acquired the Leaky Cauldron’s recipe for one of these ten luncheon soups: the Soup Leaky, Leaky.

Or so they claim, anyway… so we beg you, the readers, to test out this purported recipe (which seems to be similar to that of a standard cheesy-potato soup) against the Soup Leaky, Leaky one can order for lunch at the Leaky Cauldron. We’ll see if this truly matches up…


Ingredients:

• 4 potatoes (NOT garden gnomes – these are oftentimes difficult to distinguish)
• 1 cup dragon butter (*cow butter)
• ½ cup Wizarding Wheat Self-Charmed Flour (*all-purpose flour)
• 4 cups dragon milk (*cow milk)
• 2 cups dragon milk half-and-half (*cow half-and-half)
• 1 cup Gillywater (*still water)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic**
• 2 teaspoons pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup shredded dragon milk cheese (*cheddar)
• ½ cup soured cream
• 4 Gurdyroots (Muggle alternative: green onions)

*Muggle alternative.
**Should be omitted if vampires are among the intended consumers.

Directions:

1. Ensure that your potatoes are not secretly garden gnomes, and then use the potato-peeling spell and the Severing Charm (Muggle alternative: peeler and knife) to peel and cut your potatoes into even cubes. Also slice your Gurdyroots, ridding yourself of the ends and leaving only the middle part sliced into small, even pieces.
2. Put a large cauldron over a medium fire and use this to melt your butter. When melted, stir in your flour and ensure that it incorporates fully rather than clumps.
3. To your cauldron, add the dragon milk, half-and-half, Gillywater, and cubed potatoes. Also add about half of your sliced Gurdyroots.
4. Using the back of a fork, and not the Smashing Spell as that will explode your entire kitchen, smash some of the potatoes (but not all) for texture.
5. Turn your fire to a high heat until your concoction boils; once it has boiled, turn your fire to a low heat, put the cauldron lid atop your cauldron, and allow the soup to simmer for twenty minutes.
6. Uncover your cauldron, then add your dragon milk cheese, pepper, salt, and garlic (if you have ensured vampires are not among your guests). Recover your cauldron and allow the soup to simmer for twenty more minutes.
7. Uncover your cauldron once more once the time has passed and stir in the soured cream. Allow the soup to simmer for five more minutes.
8. Serve, sprinkled with extra sliced Gurdyroots and dragon milk cheese! And make sure you don’t overcharge anyone for eating it…
   
   
   
   
   
   Muggle Item of the Month: Fashion Week
   by Dorion Anderson
   
   This month I present to you an event rather than an item! And instead of one event, I’m telling you about FOUR events! These are the “Big Four” fashion week events that happen across the globe. This is an opportunity for famous fashion designers to present their collections for the next season, so fashion weeks happen biannually. Most of the time they happen around February and September, but it can vary. February timeframe gives opportunities to present the fall and winter collections, while September presents the spring and summer collections.
   
   The big four occur in New York City, London, Milan, and Paris. Each one kind of has their own purpose and sort of expectation surrounding them. You’re not going to find the same fashion at each one, because there’s so much to see! Smaller fashion weeks are held in Copenhagen, Berlin, Madrid, São Paulo, Shanghai, and Tokyo.
   
   New York Fashion Week (NYFW) was the first of the four major fashion weeks, created by Eleanor Lambert in 1943. It was an opportunity to showcase American fashion innovations and designers since a lot of people couldn’t travel to France at the time. Its original name was Press Week, since the purpose was to essentially market the next season of clothing to be distributed by the press to retailers.
   
   To jump back into the past even further than that, Paris really started the concept of fashion weeks before New York’s became a major one. In the late 1800s, French designers often hired women to wear the couture out in public to generate buzz about the pieces that they were wearing. Over time, these evolved into ‘parades’ that eventually became fashion shows. Designer Paul Poiret ended up holding the first Paris Fashion Week, holding a series of galas and events to showcase his designs, and requested his guests wear beautiful clothing items to reflect his own work – only the best for Poiret! The first official Paris Fashion Week happened in 1973!
   
   Milan is widely considered as the fashion capital of the world, so it’s no surprise that they ended up with one of the Big Four of fashion shows! They held their inaugural fashion week in 1958, and they hold separate women’s and men’s fashion weeks rather than the two being combined into one general fashion week. They are the only one of the four that do this, which is what makes their shows unique!
   
   To finish off with a place that is closer for a lot of us, is the London Fashion Week! They were the last on the scene, starting in 1984! In 2009, the Burberry brand really changed the game with what the fashion industry calls “see now, buy now” fashion shows. Whatever people saw on the runway was available to buy, which wasn’t the standard, because generally, the fashion shows were for retailers to figure out what they would want to purchase for the upcoming season. This really started the shift in what fashion weeks presented.
   
   Each region has its own deep and personal story with fashion, and I’m going to be honest… I like to see what people are wearing to fashion shows more than I enjoy the fashion shows themselves. For my Muggle-born friends, I highly recommend exploring your TikTok for you page around fashion week time to see what people are wearing. They’re SO beautiful, and it’s one of my bucket list items to someday attend the London Fashion Week.
   
   
   
   
   
   A Nod to NaNo
   by Rebecca Lark
   
   I joined the Headliner team because I felt like I had something to say. Well, partially, I joined because I was bored, but also because sometimes it feels easier to articulate the enormity of the world through quill and paper, rather than through spoken word. I think many of us feel this way – that there’s a certain sort of power and freedom to be found in writing, whether for the Headliner or just for ourselves.
   
   November is National Novel Writing Month for Muggles, an event often shortened to NaNoWriMo. I will readily admit to you all that I loathe reading (ironic, for a Headliner writer, but that’s why I’m not an editor). While I do enjoy writing articles, books are a whole other beast, and can take anywhere from months to decades to write. The idea of sitting at a desk for that long sounds awful. The goal of NaNoWriMo, though, is to reduce all those excruciating months of unending suffering, and get a fifty thousand word novel written in just thirty terrifying days.
   
   NaNoWriMo first began in 1999, meaning that 2024 is the 25th year of holding the event. Over the years, NaNoWriMo has grown significantly from its humble roots; in the first year of NaNoWriMo, there were 21 participants and 6 total books completed, while in 2022, there were over 400,000 participants and almost 52,000 books written. It is now considered to be the big event for writers.
   
   The rules for NaNoWriMo are simple: one, each writing project must be new; two, only one author per novel; and three, all novels must be completed by midnight on November 30th. In order to finish in time, each author must write an average of 1667 words a day. If this sounds fun to you, rather than like a particularly loud cry for help, then I’ve compiled a list of tips and tricks for writing your first novel, to give you the best possible chance of completing it in thirty days.
   1. Set up a plan for your book by breaking it up into small, manageable parts. Staring down all fifty thousand of those words at once sounds exhausting; instead, take the time to figure out the main beats of your story, and create a rough outline of what you want your novel to look like. Then you can select individual portions or scenes to work on each day, rather than trying to write your novel in chronological order.
   2. Set a writing schedule, and stick to it. If you skip a day of writing, your required word count for each subsequent day will increase. If you know your schedule can vary, be sure to plan ahead. Perhaps you can aim for a lower word count on weekdays, while setting a higher goal for the weekends.
   3. Form a group. The purpose of NaNoWriMo is to give you a support network of people all striving for the same goal, so that you can all motivate each other towards the finish line. If you can form a writing group, you’ll be much less likely to give up halfway through.
   4. Keep your research organised. Ideally, you’ll want to do any necessary research in the months prior to NaNoWriMo, so that you can write uninhibitedly. Keeping your research organised and easily accessible will allow you to waste less time seeking out answers during the writing process.
      
      Good luck to those of you who will be attempting this challenge. There’s a long line of authors past and present supporting you, and with any luck, we’ll see your novel on our library’s shelves someday soon.
      
      
      
      
      
      Colours of Melancholy
      by Meyra Lancaster
      
      Nothing Gold Can Stay
      By: Robert Frost
      Nature’s first green is gold,
      Her hardest hue to hold.
      Her early leaf’s a flower;
      But only so an hour.
      Then leaf subsides to leaf.
      So Eden sank to grief,
      So dawn goes down to day.
      Nothing gold can stay.
      
      Autumn comes with a need for a tight embrace of cosiness, something to comfort us, to hold us while we are coming back to our normal routines and responsibilities. After the excesses and freedom of summer, the time comes to regain balance, to return home, to accept the changes and face our challenges, to focus on what is most dear to us. It is the season to return to what centres us with our true essence, to turn back to what teaches us how to care, and to pay attention, because autumn reminds us that nothing is eternal. As the proverbial wisdom says: “Fall is a season for balancing light and dark, letting go, and accepting the impermanence of things.”
      
      We all have our favourite things: our favourite hobbies, our favourite people, those we hold close to our hearts. For me personally, the image of a cosy autumn begins with the sound of a crackling fire in the fireplace, and the first rain that falls as the blanket of darkness begins to stretch, smoothing away the once-melting summer sun. These rhythms are like a lullaby for my perfect fall soundtrack.
      
      That's when you know it's time to light some candles and indulge in the scents of pumpkin, cinnamon, berries, fallen leaves and new books. Wrap yourself in layers of comfortable textures, sit back with a hot cup of tea by your side, and lose yourself in the pages of a new romance title. The world takes its natural course outside, and we rest inside our place of comfort, preparing ourselves for what is to come with a sense of nostalgia and melancholy, enjoying the landscape transforming into shades of red, orange, yellow and brown.
      
      Autumn is also synonymous with homemade meals, baked goods, gathering around with family and friends. Because we see how frail life can be, how quickly it comes and goes, even if unconsciously, we yearn for quality time with those that are important to us. In several cultures, celebrations that bring us together take form, joining us and making us appreciate those sweet moments and share all the best we have.
      
      Life is a circle, and autumn is the season that makes us stop and reflect. It makes us self-aware and teaches us to care and see that there is also beauty in goodbyes. Nothing is here to stay, and what we leave behind gifts us with new opportunities. Like a Phoenix, autumn is the ashes that make life possible.

International Inclusion
by Xiomara Torres

For centuries past, Hogwarts has been one of the few schools to truly be inclusive. Despite the disagreements that the founders may have had about who was worthy to be in ‘their’ house, Hogwarts has openly welcomed students regardless of their blood status or race. This academic year, many other schools followed suit and opened their doors. This includes the following schools of Ilvermorny, Durmstrang, Beauxbatons, Uagadou, Castelobruxo, Koldovstoretz, Mahoutokoro and Tenūsa.

For the first time in the history of these eight schools, each of them now allows purebloods, half-bloods, half-breeds, wizard-borns and Muggle-borns alike. For some schools, this is a huge change from their norm. For others, there isn’t much of a difference, but it might allow a handful more students than before. Whilst the change may not be immediate, it paves the way for a better future over the coming years for the next generation of students across the magical community all over the globe.

It is unknown how this change will affect things in the future, but the inclusion will allow affected students to get access to an educational system that they could not attain before. Some of these students might have been homeschooled; others might have gone to smaller or local schools in their towns. They now have access to a school with international recognition that potentially provides better education.

I would also argue that this change helps other students too. It allows them to meet new people and understand that we are all, ultimately, just beings in this magical world. It brings hope that through exposure, we can – perhaps – reduce the discrimination that some of these students may have faced. Sometimes, racism and discrimination are caused by ignorance. People may have heard stories of an aggressive part-giant but never met one to know that they might be very friendly. The BFG, a famous book by Muggle author Roald Dahl, is, after all, about a Big Friendly Giant. Negative and biased stories can be combated by experience. Meeting a very kind goblin, realising that someone growing up as a Muggle is not a bad thing, going on a date with a cute dhampir.

These experiences can only be made through inclusion, and I have great hope that this new acceptance will help the entire population of budding magical beings. I, for one, am super excited about this new change – though I did not realise that international schools had this limitation in the first place until recently – as I think it is always great to meet new people and learn about their experiences, knowledge and culture. Did you know that goblins have their own language? I learned that on one of my first visits to Diagon Alley, and I thought that was super cool. And did you know that some people have visions of the future? Others can change the shape of their nose!

Our world is full of so many interesting people, and we get to meet more of them through this amazing new inclusion initiative that the international world seems to have taken. I, for one, am thrilled to see this initiative coming to fruition.


Meet Your Four New Prefects
by Dorion Anderson

It is truly amazing that we recently had four new prefects, one for each house. It is not abnormal that prefects come and go; we’ve recently had some seventh year graduates replaced by incoming first years. For all the houses to need a prefect around the same time is truly a miraculous event to witness. Gryffindor held their positions strong: the last time they put out a call for a new prefect was in December 2022. Hufflepuff had the second longest wait since June 2023, and both Ravenclaw and Slytherin held a search earlier this year.

This is my official welcome to all of the new prefects, via tracking them down for an interview (I promise I was really nice about it)! Congratulations to Galton Lansdale, 7th year of Gryffindor; Sage Willows, 2nd year of Hufflepuff; Mylo Atkins, 2nd year of Ravenclaw; and Cass Ito, 2nd year of Slytherin! Let’s get into it!

What made you want to be a prefect?
”Our prefects are really cool! When they aren’t giving you detention, that is. But some of them are really cool even when they are giving you detention. Also, my father suggested it. But I just like helping out!” - Cass Ito

”I’m not sure I remember. I’ve wanted to be a prefect for so long that I can’t recall not wanting to be one.” - Galton Lansdale

”Professor Iwasaki reached out to me and asked if it was something I’d be interested in, and I’d been wanting to branch out a bit and help myself get more confident which this would be perfect for, so I accepted.” - Mylo Atkins

“Long story short, my time before I came to Hogwarts was awful. I didn’t have a community of wizards and witches to support me. If someone enters these halls not knowing what to do, or is a brat in need of a good detention to whip them into shape, they can come to me. I want to be a community for people. Being a prefect is helping me do that.” - Sage Willows

Do you have a favourite memory of your time at Hogwarts?
”For me, it’s really figuring out who I am as a person, which, in one way or another, includes most things from my time at Hogwarts.” - Sage Willows

”I think one of my favourite memories is either just walking around the grounds, sometimes talking with friends or summer camp in its entirety. I’d never really been on such a long camp and it was amazing to do all these activities and walk around the pitch.” - Mylo Atkins

”Oh, lots! I had a massive food fight in the great hall once! That was really fun.” - Cass Ito (who immediately denied involvement in that food fight)

”Maybe the first time I duelled? I may have immediately lit myself on fire and was then KO’ed, but I will never forget the rush standing there.” - Galton Lansdale

What’s something you’d want the students to know about you?
“I know I look really scary and great and things, but I’m just a normal person really! I’m always here to help with things, and I promise I do stop talking and listen to people sometimes.” - Cass Ito

”I might look intimidating, but I swear I’m a nice and genuine person at heart. If you ever need anything or just need someone in your corner, you can come talk to me. Unless you’re a jerk. Then I want nothing to do with you.” - Sage Willows

”That I’m always happy to help if I can! If I don’t know how to help, I can find someone who does!” - Mylo Atkins

”I grew this moustache on my own and definitely did not use any magic. Toad is a naturally hairless cat that I, in no way-shape-or-form, have a hand in influencing her fur status. I have only committed once before a duel - and it was because I had eaten too much for lunch, not the nerves. All other rumours are false.” - Galton Lansdale

And on that very weird note… good luck to Gryffindor specifically! All of the new prefects are absolute sweeties (and aren’t actually intimidating despite people apparently thinking they are). Prefects are your fellow students and a wealth of knowledge for help or comfort. Wizard boarding school can be really scary! But, I promise, they’re here to help you. Lean on your leaders when you can, or prank them just for fun. But don’t tell them I said to do that!

A last congratulations to you four! I can’t wait to see how you contribute to the school and to your house.


Winter's Wisdom: December Horoscopes
by The North Star

Fellow witches, wizards, and curious majority,

A newfangled epoch dawns upon the Hogwarts Headliner, and in the arrival of this new era emerges a fresh author for your hungry gaze and grubby fingertips. I am your newest celestial correspondent; please call me the North Star. From this day forward, I shall unveil the cosmic patterns and petty, earthly dramas of our downtrodden Hogwarts and wizarding society. Whether you seek otherworldly guidance to feed your soul that yearns for enlightenment, or the latest tea spilled from the Great Hall, the North Star promises to illuminate the pages of the Hogwarts Headliner with the juiciest of gossip and the tools to tether yourself to the divine.

As we transition from the bewitching allure of All Hallows’ Eve to the delightful, wintry season of Yuletide, you might notice fruition in your long-term endeavours moving to a slower beat courtesy of the Mercury retrograde. Yet, fate waits for no one as the stars prepare the wix for the welcoming of a new year with nought but hurdles along the way.

Let us gaze to the heavens and explore the cosmic forecast for December.

Aries: As aforementioned, December's tidings call for a slow season fraught with unexpected challenges. You'll see your patience tested as your ruling planet, Mars, goes into retrograde on the 6th of December. If you can navigate this tumultuous period with grace while under pressure, you’ll reap the rewards of your work.

Taurus: Having some grace for yourself will be your ally this season. Mars’s retrograde may present challenges in interpersonal relationships that may leave you feeling drained; therefore, communicate your boundaries and take time to do your favourite activities to rejuvenate your spirit.

Gemini: It will be especially wise to exercise caution in word choice this season, dear reader, as this season bestows fresh opportunities and people to be acquainted with. Utilise discernment and avoid unnecessary risks as Mars emphasises the need for your patience, so allow these new opportunities and relationships to flow naturally.

Cancer: You’re about to launch a creative streak that will illuminate your journey into the new year. This final streak of 2024 should motivate you to take your endeavours seriously, but keep a tight rein on how you spend your energy. While it’s lovely to have your closest kin by your side during the holidays, you may need to set a few boundaries and have a few “me” days to help you remain grounded.

Leo: This is a life-changing era for you, and you might find that people and opportunities are attracted to your radiant energy. You've likely felt like a caterpillar in a cocoon for some time; however, my dear reader, it is your time to break free and spread your beautiful wings.

Virgo: December begins with tension for you, but this will allow you to gain a new perspective on effective communication within existing and new connections. This final month of the year will also help you break free from destructive cycles, draining individuals, and a lack of progress within your ambitions.

Libra: This season is about seizing the abundance you've worked so hard towards, and fresh opportunities and peace will reveal themselves to you as a reward. Your willpower will be boosted like never before in your pursuits; therefore, continue to release energy, situations, or people that do not serve you.

Scorpio: This is the month of new beginnings, and the effort you put in will follow you into the new year slowly and steadily but will skyrocket. With this newfound energy, things will transform into what will serve your higher self.

Sagittarius: December is for you if you crave motivation and change. Your annual fresh beginning of healing awaits you, and preparation is critical to unlocking this season's full potential. Establish habits that will calm the mind, exercise, and be mindful of how you treat yourself.

Capricorn: The final chapter of the season will be very social for you, dear reader, and your ambitions will come to fruition if you maintain a healthy mindset and set goals and intentions. The 11th house is about the future, so ask yourself this: where do you see yourself in six months?

Aquarius: This season will offer a renewed sense of purpose and steer you on a path of creative freedom that will yield results. Your network will expand with like-minded individuals who will fuel your motivation in your ambitions and academic pursuits.

Pisces: My sweet Pisces, you may have noticed over the previous year that you've been feeling stuck in some regards, but this will soon come to change. The end of the season will raise your energy, boost your optimism, and coax you into forming a healthy routine.

Yours truly,
The North Star


Wizarding Product Reviews The Hufflepuff Way
by Simon Kincaid

Hello, and welcome to Wizarding Product Reviews: The Hufflepuff Way! With each edition, I’ll find a friend, and together, we’ll review a product from the wizarding world.

This month’s product:

Product: Majesto Tent 500
Description: An enchanted wizard tent. It is bigger on the inside! There are five separate areas, including a living room, kitchen, and three bedrooms.
Where to Purchase: Hogsmeade, Main Square
Price: 50 galleons

Current Review Committee Members: Simon Kincaid & AngelFyre McCubbin

Take glamping to the next level with this wizarding tent that is deceptively large on the inside, no matter how small it may appear. Looking mostly like fabric draped or attached over a framework of poles (looking as Muggle-like as possible), inside, the charmed wizard tents resemble a multiple-room flat, equipped with a kitchen, bathroom, and several bedrooms. They also come furnished with beds, chairs, tables, and other items – some showing off magical details on the inside.

Magic is all abound in this item! The user will set up the portable lodging with the use of the charm Erecto. The contents, while extremely large, are made smaller, like when using an enchanted satchel or backpack, and an Undetectable Extension Charm, Capacius Extremis, is what allows the tent to be more expansive on the inside.

As for the name, Majesto could be a play on the word “majestic”, which means having or displaying great dignity, nobility, or grandeur. It is often a word used to describe things that are superior to everyday things.

I found myself using this tent at last year’s summer camp as a sort of cabin-like getaway. My girlfriend and I were not placed into the same lodging, and therefore, we needed a place to hang out together. Needless to say, that cosy brown sofa in the living room area of my Majesto Tent 500 was the perfect place for snogging.

It was easy to carry, easy to set up, and offered comfort and privacy. While it has somewhat of a high price tag, I believe it was very much worth every one of its fifty galleons. I would give it a superior rating of five.

My fellow reviewer, the beautiful fourth year Hufflepuff AngelFyre McCubbin, spent many afternoons in the Majesto Tent 500 as part of Camp SimFyre that same summer. Her thoughts were as follow: “On a five scale, with five being the good end of the rating, ...I'd give it a ten.” She liked that it was comfortable and spacious. She thought it offered privacy, but also could be inviting to others despite that.

Related products include the enchanted trunk, enchanted satchel, and enchanted backpack for also making use of the Undetectable Extension Charm. Related products, more aligned with the general use of the Majesto Tent 500, would be a room at an inn – a temporary staying place that isn’t your home but offers some of the commodity of home, a makeshift shelter, or a Muggle camping tent.

Simon’s review: 5/5
AngelFyre’s review: 5/5


Magical Mythos: Stribog, Durmstrang's Spirit
by Pericles Dralt

You may have heard the name Stribog woven into the colourful exclamations of our friends from Durmstrang: "by Stribog", "Stribog's breath", a term utilised in blessings and curses alike. Stribog was heralded as a god by the ancient Slavic people, yet Durmstrang's interpretation leads us to wonder whether he may be of a more magical origin. All manner of creatures and apparitions are said to stalk the inhospitable wilds surrounding the school. Before its construction, the land was rumoured to be the dwelling grounds of the nature spirit. This legend lives on with the student population. Some say he appears as a man, a ghost, or even takes the guise of animals. However, none can claim to have seen him outright. There are those who speculate this rumour was cultivated as one of Durmstrang's protective measures, meant to frighten students from straying out into the no-man's-land. The apparition may even be tied to the many potent anti-Muggle wards within its barbed-wire fence-lined premises.

Whether a fabricated vision or actual entity, Stribog's mythos stretches deep into the annals of Slavic history. He is commonly interpreted as a wind deity who distributes wealth, due in part to the most widely accepted etymology of his name. This combines the stem "stri-" (from the Proto-Slavic verb "sterti", meaning "to spread or scatter") and the word bog, which translates to "god". Through this, Stribog is considered the "Disperser of Riches". His origin describes the spirit as forming from the sparks and wind of a heavenly smith's swinging hammer. He is a neutral deity presiding over both fair and foul weather, from the clear wind, which brings health, to tempestuous squalls. Stribog's human form is said to be that of an elderly man with white hair, a long beard, a golden bow, and a hunter's horn with which he conjures the breeze.

Described as stern, swift, short-tempered and fearless, he moves rapidly across battlefields to secure a vantage. His spectral form can slip through the smallest of cracks or roar across great open spaces. As a practically inevitable warrior, his symbolism has been heavily popular amongst military leaders. It is no wonder why militant Durmstrang has chosen to idolise him. Stribog seems to be especially popular among the school's Quidditch players. When asked if they believed its existence in a literal sense, one of their Chasers explained: "Yes, and no. Stribog is more of a feeling. When you are flying high and a cold wind pushes you forward to victory, it is nice to think there is a Force that wants you to win. There are banshee ghost ladies that scream you to death, and Castelobruxo has Caipora, the little nature spirits protecting their grounds. Why not believe in a windy man who likes broom sports?" A student named Hans stated simply, “I believe in Stribog the way I believe in Santa: you want it to be real because it’s cool, but deep down, you don’t actually think it’s real.”

"Now the winds, sons of Stribog, blow from the sea like arrows." -The Tale of Igor's Campaign (~1188 CE)


Muggle Christmas Music
by Violeta Roux

December is a month of many traditions, both magical and Muggle. The month is especially marked by one special holiday that many across the world celebrate: Christmas. Christmas has a bunch of different traditions, which include throwing Christmas balls, mainly to show off, but also to celebrate the magic of Christmas. It is a rather magical holiday, after all.

Recently, I learned that Muggles and Muggle-borns have been creating their own Christmas music for many, many years. I was quite curious, so I started listening to some Christmas songs made by Muggle artists, and most of them are surprisingly good.

But first, where does Christmas music come from exactly?

Well, Christmas music has a rather long history, meaning there are many classic Muggle Christmas songs over 100 years old. It all started in 4th-century Rome. Back then, people in Rome spoke Latin, so the songs were in the dead language. Later, in the 13th century, Muggles translated popular Christmas music into regional native languages, and English Christmas songs first appeared in 1426.

They appeared when a Muggle man named John Awdlay wrote a work of his, listing 25 carols in English. Soon after, wassailers started going house to house singing these songs, and this became a tradition that we now call 'carolling'. You probably know of it.

'Carolling' is a verb, and it simply means to go from door to door singing with a group, usually in a street or neighbourhood. Some folks like to spend the entire night circling the town and singing. However, this usually happens in smaller towns, and less so in big cities.

There are a few Muggle Christmas songs created in the 16th century that are still rather popular nowadays. Many Muggle artists have made covers of these songs, including "The Twelve Days Of Christmas", a popular song that I find pretty annoying. It's had several variations, but in every version, it's the same idea: a series of gifts is given to the singer by their "true love".

Many more Muggle Christmas songs were created between the 16th century and the 21st century. Most songs written before the 1900s were more religious, since Christmas is a Christian holiday, after all. "The Twelve Days Of Christmas", for example, has a religious meaning. However, when the Great Depression came, Muggles started creating Christmas songs about less religious topics. These songs were aimed at children.

What about the more modern Muggle Christmas songs? Well, one of the most famous Christmas songs known to Muggles isn't too old. If you're a Muggle-born or a half-blood, or if you even know anything about the Muggle world in December, you have probably heard of the song "All I Want For Christmas Is You", by Muggle artist Mariah Carey. The love song came out in 1994, and it's always playing near Christmas, or so I've heard.

Another song that has become quite popular with Muggles is "Last Christmas", another love song. It was written and produced by a man named George Michael and released in 1984. The singers themselves are a duo who call themselves "Wham!".

Many more Christmas songs have launched over the past years, but I thought about talking about these two, because "All I Want For Christmas" seems to be extremely popular, and I must admit, "Last Christmas" is my favourite Muggle Christmas song from the ones I've heard, even if it's a love song. I usually don't enjoy those, but this one was quite good, so definitely listen to it if you can.


Hogwarts, A Holiday
by Xiomara Torres

The most magical time of the year is upon us. Whether you celebrate Yule, Eid, Hanukkah, Christmas or something else, there are festivals and special occasions throughout the season! At Hogwarts, we have a two-week winter break around Christmas, and whilst most students will go back home to their families, some of us will stay. For those staying, here is a selection of fun activities you can do around the castle this festive season to get into the holiday spirit!

Ideas for the Festive Season:

1. Show your gratitude by thanking a fellow student or professor. You could write a letter to express this if you feel too awkward doing it in person!
2. Make some holiday cards (or thank-you cards) for someone. Handmade cards are great fun.
3. Give your loved ones some thoughtful gifts that will mean something to them.
4. Instead of buying gifts, try making something this holiday season. You could use the materials you already have or use things you find around the castle. Easy ideas could be affirmation rocks (literally paint on the rocks you find on the grounds), friendship bracelets, a drawing, an embroidered bookmark and so on!
5. Play Gobstones with someone that you’ve not hung out with before – you might make a new friend.
6. Gather a group and go around the castle carol singing! Who doesn’t enjoy songs? They don’t even have to be Christmas carols, you could just go around singing fun songs and cheering people up!
7. Spend time practicing your dance skills in the ballroom to get ready for the next ball.
8. The holiday period is not necessarily happy for everyone – try reaching out to a friend who might be lonely.
9. Decorate your dorm room or common room to spread some holiday cheer. Bonus points if you make these yourself! Why not consider getting a group of friends together and crafting some nice decorations for everyone to enjoy? You will get a fun time out of it on top of being able to make the common room a beautiful place for all.
10. Appreciate a professor who has inspired you!
11. Learn a new instrument or practice your skills in the rehearsal room. Consider joining a band or club for this purpose!
12. Why not perform a random act of kindness?
13. Spend the holidays or your down time reading as many non-academic books as you can in the library. The library isn’t just for studying, after all. There are so many storybooks, why not take advantage of the two-week break?
14. Go above and beyond helping a friend or even a stranger in need with something.
15. Challenge a friend to a game of wizard chess!
16. Make an ornament – you could try painting one, making it out of fabric or even using materials such as wire and beads.
17. Play a sports game with those staying behind this break – it could be a Muggle sport game, like a nice game of football or netball, instead of Quidditch!
18. Grab a friend and go on an adventure with them. Try exploring a new part of the castle that you haven’t seen before! Maybe you could go down a different corridor or discover a new route to a classroom.
19. Send a classmate you haven’t spoken to a kind note.
20. Go outdoors and play in the snow, if the weather allows it!

There are so many more things you could do but hopefully, this inspires you a little. Drink some hot chocolate, bake a Christmas pudding or other seasonal food, and take the time to socialise with your friends and family if you’re spending the holidays with them!

Whatever you do, happy holidays!

XOXO, XIO


What I Do At School for Yule
by Dorion Anderson

It’s your favourite Wiccan witch at Hogwarts back with some hot tips for how to celebrate Yule at school! I know wizards have their own celebrations for this, but I wanted to share what I do to replicate what me and my family do when I’m home. Over my six years at Hogwarts, there have been a couple times where I’ve stayed at Hogwarts over the winter break. I never wanted that to stop me from feeling that I’m celebrating the holiday with my family, just a bit further apart.

For those that don’t know, I celebrate what I call Muggle Magic. A form of paganism, and that could be a whole article by itself. But essentially, I do magic with nature. Whether or not you believe it works, that’s up to you! But for me it was a strong base of what I grew up around, and it will always be a part of me. My Muggle magic is no less important to me than my wizard magic is, and both of them hold halves of my heart equally.

This year Yule is on 21 December, and I plan on being home to celebrate this year! But if you’d like to celebrate the return of the sun and warmth at school, here are some things I’ve done in the past to try and bring that holiday spirit to my own dorm!

1. A sort of arts and crafts way to get around having a bonfire would be building one out of craft supplies! While there is a beautiful hearth in the Hufflepuff common room, I’ve made a paper mache sun to hang up on my wall during the time of Yule. Even just a drawing of a sun would be great!
2. Decorate an altar! I have a small altar in one of my bedside table drawers. It’s not ideal, but it gets the job done. However, make sure that no one touches it. You can decorate it with a lot of different things such as seasonal plants, candles, crystals, bells, and winter fruit. But be careful about letting the fruit rot and attracting animals. While there are typical colours such as red, green, white, and gold, it’s really the intention that matters. So whatever you feel like Yule is, decorate accordingly!
3. The Yule log is a bit of a harder tradition to replicate at school, and please don't tell the groundskeeper about what I do… but I usually steal branches from the trees out in the courtyard and contribute to my house hearth, as I mentioned before. It’s what I can get away with, and again, it’s intention that matters the most.
4. As Yule represents a turning of seasons and the returning of light, and the new year begins a week later (not pagan-celebrated, but I celebrate it in my family), I take time to write and reflect on the year that just happened. I also like to set intentions about the year to come: what would I like to manifest? What would I like to achieve? Sometimes I write a page of things I’d like to let go and burn it afterwards. Symbology and all that!

These are just a few suggestions, and Yule is really what you make it! Even just eating with friends can be a celebration if you’d like it to be. I hope all of you have a safe and happy holiday season, no matter what you celebrate!


Magical & Muggle Meals: Meringues
by Aly Salinger

Winter at Hogwarts is truly a magical experience, and no, I don’t just mean because of the spell one can use to conjure up Christmas decorations with just the flick of one’s wand. Of course the best part of a Hogwarts holiday is the holiday feast, with turkeys and potatoes and vegetables, oh my! Great gravy boats and clusters of cranberries! Palatable puddings and charming confections! Wizard crackers to explode, with plenty of prizes to win! Of course, we can’t teach you how to make your own wizard crackers, but we can do the next best thing: introduce you to a classic sweet treat that will stay a staple at your holiday table long after you’ve graduated Hogwarts. I’m speaking, of course, about meringues.

Sometimes called breads, other times biscuits, a meringue is a light, sweet, and crispy delicacy made of whipped egg and sugar. Meringues can be flavoured in many different ways, but you can’t go wrong with the classic vanilla.



Ingredients:

• 1 Occamy egg white (*4 chicken egg whites)
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 cup sugar from a Sugar Shrub (*white/granulated sugar)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract**

*Muggle alternative
**Do not attempt to extract your own vanilla extract from Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans. This has been tried in the past with disastrous consequences.

Directions:

1. If storing your Occamy egg white (*whites) in a cold place, remove from the cold and allow to adjust to room temperature before continuing.
2. Preheat oven to 105°C, or 225°F, for our Ilvermorny readers.
3. Take some large trays and double-check them for Permanent Sticking Charms (*line tray with parchment paper).
4. In a completely clean mixing bowl that has not been contaminated with any oil, grease, or Kneazle hair, combine your egg white(s), salt, and cream of tartar.
5. With your wand (*electric mixer), stir slowly until you begin to see foam in the mixture, then increase your speed of stirring to high.
6. Whilst still stirring quickly, gradually add your sugar a little bit at a time. Allow the sugar to fully incorporate (roughly 15-20 seconds, or one rendition of “Hoggy Warty Hogwarts” at a jazzy pace) before adding more — Sugar Shrubs can be temperamental that way.
7. Continue to stir very fast. Eventually, you will see a gradual change to what is known as “stiff peaks”, which is when the egg mixture is very thick, white, and as shiny as a freshly polished Sickle. You should be able to pull up a peak of fluff with the tip of your wand and have it stay there without it drooping back down!
8. Very gently and very slowly, stir in vanilla extract.
9. With your wand, levitate small amounts of the mix onto the prepared tray(s) (*use a piping bag, preferably with a tip, though a plain plastic bag with a corner cut out works too) in even rows. You want each meringue to be about 2.5cm in diameter.
10. When you have prepared all of the trays, pop them in the oven all together. Allow to bake for one hour, then turn the oven off and do not remove the trays.
11. Let both the oven and the meringues cool completely, usually about 1-2 hours (aka one very long, slow rendition of “Hoggy Warty Hogwarts”), before removing the trays from the oven.
12. Eat your meringues! But if you don’t eat them immediately, store them in something airtight, or else they will lose that trademark crisp. Still, it shouldn’t be a problem to just have one… or two… or twenty-five…

Dream Big Dreams
by Simon Kincaid

To the dreamers, to the planners, to the sceptics, and to the believers:

Another year has passed, another year has come. I wish for you that, with every year, you achieve all your dreams. May God pour love and care on you.

I asked some of the students at Hogwarts about their hopes and dreams for 2025. Here’s what they had to say! There were the popular New Year's resolutions that were echoed by many classmates. Some were academically inclined such as study more, improve grades, yield more respect to professors, and attempt a conversation with the headmaster. Other resolutions focused on relationship-building such as cultivating new friendships, finding more time for friends, and joining a club. Many students, perhaps sarcastically, wish that they make it through the remainder of this school year alive and with all limbs still rightfully attached.

Fourth year Hufflepuff, the breathtakingly beautiful AngelFyre McCubbin, says that she wants a deeper connection with her boyfriend (I hear he’s amazing), her family, and her friends. She also hopes to start focusing on her interests with Potioneering.

Second year Hufflepuff Emiline Hunter is really excited because she’s looking forward to learning more complicated spells and broadening her friendships. She hopes to get lots more friends and have a fun time in the coming year.

Second year Slytherin and duelling captain, Prat Pass, says he’s going to try and relax mostly, but there's a lot of stuff to be done. He wants to keep his grades up and still have downtime with friends while making more friends. He hopes to get on the Vipers and have Slytherin win in the competitive sports, and wishes there were no more problems during school events like the balls. He also would like to get a pet and a brand new broom.

First year Ravenclaw Avis Marlong wishes to learn a new language. She’d like to be in communication more with her best friend from home, but most of all wishes that her little sister would show underage accidental magic so she could come to Hogwarts and experience it.

Such resolutions might call within your own hopes and dreams. This is a reflective time a year to wonder what we can improve on, what we can strive for, what it is that we are optimistic and hopeful for.

For me, personally, I hope to gain knowledge and understanding. I hope to strengthen my faith, to solidify my grounding, further find myself in my interests and ambitions, dedicate myself to my beloved, my friends, and my family, and be the best individual I can be to make this world a better place.

Happy New Year, Hogwarts, and as we enter 2025, remember to be kind to one another!

Courting Confessionals: Cupid's Tell All
By Cupid

Dear Readers, as the most romantic season of the year fastly approaches all eyes are turned keenly on one crucial component: love. Hundreds of thousands of songs, countless stories and billions of hearts all around the world depict the special meaning of the holiday professing it openly and aloud, and yet, this article is not for them. This is for those whose love lies in the dark, unknown to their intended or at least unknown for now.

Confessions are often regarded under negative light, as an admittance of guilt or acceptance of your fault in something but sometimes a confession can be quite the opposite. For when confession faces love there is nothing but the purest intent to profess one’s feelings, a magic most special. Words often can get misconstrued but when written in print they become as plain and honest as the eye can see. Today dear readers it is my honour to release those confessions and allow love to fly free:

"There's this man... I think he's from Durmstrang. He's got red-brown hair? And he's super tall and strong. He's probably got a girl over there since he's so handsome and kind but still, hear me out..." - Anonymous

Oh how we hear you loud and clear. For the sake of our dear confessor Cupid cannot reveal the identity of such a hunk but I imagine there will be more than one pair of eyes set firmly on the Durmstrang students upon their next visit. Personally though like all the love sick students brave enough to come forward Cupid shall be rooting for you.

Advancing beyond prose, poetry is often deemed the most romantic form of literature and what better inspiration than love. Well this flying cherub knows that one Hufflepuff certainly seems to be providing an excellent muse. Despite becoming more of a Picasso in the latter half there’s no doubt Shakespeare would be proud:

“I miss you dearly
but you're like 'fear me'
I can't look away
because you're so full of that gorgeous rage
Spiking that drink
Was a misguided declaration of love that made me think
Alyssea you're so pretty
You could make the whole world livid
Alyssea Brown, I love you” - Anonymous

Now taking the sports fan mentality to an entirely new level we have a couple of anonymous submissions proving that athletes really do make hearts go crazy, perhaps even a degree, or five, too crazy. Game, set and match, Kim Aiko and Wyatt Starkey:

"So! You're awesome and cute looking, I'm really awesome and cute looking... You don't know it yet, but I think we both have a lot in common and would make the awesomest, cutest duo or something. I'll make you realise it soon! But for now, take these: Do you play quidditch? Because you look like a keeper. I wish I had your picture, so I could show Santa what I wanted for Christmas. Are you a pokemon? Because I'd choose you. Forget about a snitch. You're the only golden thing I seek.” - ‘Your Superstar’

“Wyatt Starkey. It took some digging but quickly I found your name. I was so happy when you won the Broom Racing for Slytherin, you did amazing and led the team to victory. On top of that, you’re the biggest eye candy in the whole castle. I will make you mine. I’ll hurt anyone who even dares to look at you.” - Anonymous

Finally rounding us off in a most heartwarming display, one Slytherin student proves that sometimes when love is true you shouldn’t hide in the shadows but profess it shouting from the rooftops:

“To the young man in crocs, though I am certain you do not reciprocate, I found your mind quite beautiful that day we met. You awakened romance in my cold heart again, and I thank you for it.” -Tristan Theramin

In sentiments like this we see the true beauty of the holiday. Love isn't always reciprocated nor is it always easy but the bravest move you can make is to simply be open to it. To all those that confessed and even those that didn’t Cupid wishes you all a happy Valentines and hopes these brave few may inspire you. Love is a force most divinely experienced in earnestness, so if you feel the point of Cupid’s arrow this season or any season be sure to share it, you never know what wonders it could bring.

With Love,
Cupid


The Hogwarts Rumour Mill: Facts or Falsehoods?
By Aly Salinger

Gossip can fly through the hallowed halls of Hogwarts faster than a Firebolt, and oftentimes it’s quite difficult to parse out truthful tales from the trumped-up. Fear not, dear reader — for here are some rumours you may or may not have heard whispered by your peers, confirmed or denied by our staff here at the Headliner.

There’s a curse on the Slytherin broom racing team!
Considering that the self-titled Brisk Basilisks won their first race this past fall against Ravenclaw, I dare say that any and all rumours of a Slytherin curse have safely been dispelled. Instead, it’s looking like Ravenclaw might have contracted a jinx. The eagle house’s Quidditch team, broom racing team, and two of its duelling teams went against the snakes in the fall and lost every… single… one. Come on, birds, you’re better than this!

Oliver Armani sleepwalks at night and does ballroom dancing around the dorm!
Armani, a first-year Slytherin, insisted upon interrogation that this is nothing but a lie, but how would he have known if he was asleep? (Although he did admit to dancing with his cat sometimes…) Others in the snake dormitories, however, have confirmed that whilst some people snore, they haven’t seen anyone ballroom dancing at three a.m. If the source of this rumour saw anyone practicing their waltz in the wee hours, it was likely the Bloody Baron trying to avoid public embarrassment.

Aly Salinger smashes broomsticks after losing Quidditch matches.
Utterly false. Libel. Slander. Next question.

Ulysses Drake is secretly a Lethifold!
Carnivorous, dark, ugly, and suffocating? Nicknamed the “Living Shroud”? Yeah, that sounds like the second-year Slytherin who doesn’t know when to keep his mouth shut. Anyone around him who wants to use the Patronus Charm to prove this theory will be greatly rewarded by this author.

Wyatt Starkey and Haven Bohannon dyed their hair purple together to announce that they’re a couple.
Unfortunately for any Hyatt shippers out there, this one can very easily be proven false. Bohannon, a sixth-year Hufflepuff, and Starkey, a Slytherin in the same year, were just victims of their own terrible potion-brewing skills prior to the winter holiday. As far as we can tell, both sixth-years are painfully single, with Bohannon joking that her “only love interest” is her Pygmy Puff. For the sake of animal rights, we hope that’s not true, either.

There’s a skeleton of an old caretaker with a bottle of Felix Felicis somewhere in the basement…
Though Headliner staff were unable to confirm this after a thorough sweep of the dungeons, Professor Regan seemingly did it for us, saying, “Oh, is that where Finley disappeared to?” She also cautioned future seekers of the skeleton: “Good luck treasure hunting, stay away from my storeroom.” Whether this means the skeleton is actually in the potions storeroom, we’re currently unsure…

Alyss Gilmour rejected Aodhan Shaw after he sang her a Muggle song she had never heard of.
Oof. Slytherin-Gryffindor relationships never work, and this author challenges you to prove otherwise. Luckily for first-year lion Shaw’s reputation, this event doesn’t seem to have happened. It’s true that both Shaw and first-year snake Gilmour both spent time at a classmate’s home over the winter holiday, but sans any serenading. We’ll keep an eye on these two, though, because it would be quite ironic if something happened between them in the future…

Meiyu Xiang stalks sixth-years.
As a sixth-year, this author certainly hopes that’s untrue. However, this Xiang person — rumoured to be a Gryffindor first-year — was nowhere to be found for comment, leaving us to wonder if perhaps they are a sixth-year stalker and are just very, very good at hiding…

No doubt about it, the new school nurse is after the headmaster’s job!
There’s something off about Bessie. Those who have visited the hospital wing since the winter holiday believe that Nurse Barnes resembles a coroner more than a nurse, and despite her warm demeanor, this author is here to report that her cheery smile may be concealing a more sinister intention. Our new Healer-in-residence was overheard complaining about Hogwarts’ “mismanagement” surrounding the recent Hogsmeade attack in which multiple Heads of other schools perished, even going so far as to call our own Headmaster, Solomon Lear, “a paranoid man hiding in his office.” It seems that she thinks she might be able to do a better job… We’ll mark this one as tentatively true for now and hope that the nurse doesn’t read the Headliner. And if you show her this, you’re a snitch, and not the good kind.

We hope that you feel more confident in your Hogwarts knowledge now, and that you’ll be able to go out into the halls and tell for yourself in the future what’s true and what’s not. But if you can’t, you’ll always know who to ask!


Hogwarts House Love
by Simon Kincaid

Do you feel the love, Hogwarts? Valentine’s Day is almost upon us and, as your resident cupid (having a shared birthday with the day of love), I hope it’s a magical one! All houses are amazing in their own ways, but it might make a difference whether you are Gryffindor-able, Ravenclaw-some, Slytherin-credible, or Hufflepuff-alicious and what your potential sweetheart’s house is. Read on to learn about some compatibility within the houses to see if you can accio your valentine!

Are you a courageous Gryffindor? Your best matches are:
Hufflepuff
Fellow Gryffindor
Ravenclaw
Slytherin

A Hufflepuff will provide you with a balanced relationship where you can both push each other to improve. Your sometimes emotional and reckless behaviour can pair perfectly with a laid back Hufflepuff who is fiercely loyal. When those peaceful Hufflepuffs want to avoid confrontation, you can push them to stand up for themselves.

Gryffindors will make a good match for each other - challenging one another and keeping life interesting with adventures.

Pairing with a Ravenclaw can be a balanced relationship, but watch to not put Ravenclaw at risk or take them out of their comfort-zone.

The most friction a Gryffindor could have in a partner might be Slytherin, not because of the house rivalry but because both seek glory in their own right. If done the right way, the two could be a power couple. If not, tempers and insatiable ambition could cause a clash.

Are you a wise Ravenclaw? Your best matches are:
1) Hufflepuff
2) Slytherin
3) Ravenclaw
4) Gryffindor

Hufflepuff will be your perfect match, eagle. They will encourage you to build friendships and find acceptance in things — not over-analysing the world around you. They’ll help you to feel comfortable to open up about your feelings and you’ll know exactly how to express them with all your knowledge. Ravenclaws will help Hufflepuffs be their best selves by encouraging them to stand up for themselves and to achieve their best.

High independence and pursuit of greatness are traits that Slytherins and Ravenclaws share. Together, they will not allow the other to fall short. Where there might rest a problem is that Ravenclaws are more open minded to new ideas whereas Slytherin can be focused on tradition.

Two Ravenclaws can have stimulating conversations and challenge one another. There is, however, a risk that they could come into competition or over analyze everything within their relationship.

Pairing with a Gryffindor could result in one bringing out the brains and the bravery, but could also lead to a Ravenclaw growing tired of their mate’s rash decisions and fiery nature.

Are you a cunning Slytherin? Your best matches are:
Slytherin
Ravenclaw
Hufflepuff
Gryffindor

Who better to fully understand another Slytherin than a Slytherin? Both of you will hold a preference for the finer things in life, keeping a relationship competitive and ambitious. Their relationship needs self-preservation to hold strong.

A Ravenclaw could offer an intellectual opponent and keep life interesting for a Slytherin, challenging you when needed.

Past Slytherins seem to have held a soft spot for the Hufflepuff house. It’s difficult to resist our loveable nature; we get it. A Hufflepuff can help encourage you to be your best, all while keeping the morals behind your ambitions in check.

Opposites don’t always attract, and a Slytherin-Gryffindor pairing could lead to fights of power and endless arguments.

Are you a loyal Hufflepuff? Your best matches are:
Hufflepuff
Gryffindor
Ravenclaw
Slytherin

There’s perhaps nothing cuter than a Hufflepuff combo (myself and AngelFyre). Their loyalty and dedication make a match for always. Each Puff will put their partner ahead of themselves, creating a strong and solid relationship to last.

Gryffindors pair well with Hufflepuffs, so long as the Gryffindor is ready to take on the Hufflepuff’s social causes. If they’re too busy with their own adventures, a Hufflepuff could be unfortunately overlooked.

Ravenclaws can help Hufflepuffs be a little less social and realize that sometimes it’s important to dedicate some time to school work — especially right before the end of term examinations!

A Slytherin can be a risky match for a Hufflepuff. Their ethics might not align well with badgers and their strong moral code, causing a clash.

But truly, love is out there. Love is all around. I can’t tell you if a relationship is going to work out — that’s for you to discover. Take a deep breath and get out there. Accio love!


Treatise on Love and Mortality
By Tristan Theramin

It is the time of love and hearts, and perhaps you were awaiting a lighthearted article about first loves. However, I write to you today about the intersection of love and mortality. I have experienced the grief of a loved one’s death twice: once when my best friend passed away, and once when my beloved tutor departed from this life three years ago. There is something heart-wrenching in seeing the light in someone’s eyes disappear.

Yet I believe that this struggle with death that envelopes us all can be the catalyst for the most human emotion, a deeper love that would not exist without it. It is often said that the greatest love is the one where a person lays down their life for another. I argue thus that the beauty of love is in the fight against mortality, because the tenacity of dedication and commitment, despite the possibility of death, is the meaning of life. Love is something that lasts even after death, and thus is not stopped by death. It can have meaning and power that goes farther than the loss of a loved one.

Something that I was taught from a young age is that grief is love beyond the grave. I have always expressed that I cannot give unnecessary platitudes when someone’s loved one dies, but I can give the assurance that if grief is felt, it only means that there was love, and that love will continue, albeit in a different form. I have a friend whom I trust has thought about these things deeply. When asked what he believed about this interaction of love and mortality, he remarked: "To love, truly love, is to transcend death. Love destroys the ego, the separation between you and me. In becoming more than 'me' through love, I unify with what even death cannot end."

Perhaps it is quite poetic and melodramatic language, but I believe that in its essence, this is a true statement. Death cannot end the love that people have for each other, only change its form. Thus, love is deepened by death and mortality, but it is also greater than death, a force that cannot be stopped.

Humanity itself has remnants of the search for love that has gone on for eons. The ancient Muggles, Achilles and Patrocles, died for each other, for example. In my time in the Muggle world, I have also become aware of the trends in Muggle fiction, and they always include love in the face of death, whether romantic or platonic. Morpheus and Calliope, Sherlock and John, Achilles and Patrocles, Cinderella and the Prince, or perhaps even the legend of a true love’s kiss are all clear proof of this trend (although we know the latter originates from the Draught of Living Death).

All of humanity seeks for a love that fights against death, whether we are Muggle or wizard. Love and death are irrevocably tied together in the psyche of humanity, by sacrifice or by commitment until death. There was a great tragedy in Hogsmeade this past year. I hope we can honour those who have died as we live on, by seeking this love and seeing this power more formidable than death.

Our love for the people who have lost their lives during their arrival at Hogwarts, as well as the love that we have for those in our personal lives who have passed away, keep their memories alive and defeat death itself. It is not a cloak, wand, or ring that defeats death, as the fairy tale goes, but love. Death foments love and love echoes through the eons, even beyond the death of humanity.


Amortentia: Just Wine in a Trench Coat
By Koko Riddle

Most of you have at least heard of amortentia by now. Toted as ‘the most potent love potion on the market’, it is in rather high demand for those who lack charisma and amours. The potion is reputed to cause infatuation or obsession in the drinker, something plenty of school-age children would like the objects of their affection to feel towards them. With its mother-of-pearl sheen and distinct aroma, the potion is expensive to brew as well as to buy, resulting in the fact that some might stoop to low levels in order to acquire it, emptying their pockets and perhaps their moral standards as well.

You should save your galleons and your trouble.

I hate to break it to you, but as someone who has brewed amortentia, I think someone’s got to speak the truth, and it might as well be me.

So, here it is: the potion is nearly just flowers and wine. Sure, there’s some granian hair, a peacock feather, some pearl dust and belladonna berries too, but, I assure you, you can make someone fall in love with you without any of that. All you need is a bottle of decent wine — if you’re of age — and their favourite, preferably pungent, flowers.

In fact, despite the number of ingredients in amortentia, I would wager that the proportionally largest part of the potion is the wine. You need an entire bottle for just two doses! This makes me ask, are you really giving them a love potion, or are you just getting the apple of your eye tipsy enough to think they like you?

The other ingredients might exacerbate the effects, sure, but amortentia is truly just overhyped floral wine. This Valentine’s season, it would be far easier to find a long-lasting way to charm someone into your affections. Think sweet-talk, gifts, flowers, even wine — you don’t need all of the other ingredients to pack a punch, so to say. Besides, amortentia wears off. If you brew or buy one expensive batch of the potion, you’ll need to acquire more and more to keep the intended effect. Why not find a more efficient way to do this?

If you are woefully underskilled in the charisma department, I suppose amortentia is a decent option for you, but I doubt it’ll help you find romantic love, if that’s what you’re looking for. They say amortentia induces infatuation, and again, you will have to use it again and again to keep yourself happy. Sure, use it, but be warned.

For everyone else, those who have even a bit of charisma in their veins, let me remind you: amortentia is not worth your money. Just go buy a nice bottle of wine and some flowers, and go have a good time. I’m sure you’ll thank me later.


The Poet's Choice
By Alyssea Brown

Please note that this article will have spoilers of Hadestown, The Great Gatsby, and The Notebook. Please turn the page if you do not wish to be spoiled.

I love musicals and I’ve been in my fair share of them since I could walk. A good plot paired with unforgettable music stays with you longer than a book because of the music. We hear it when we turn on the radio; we hum to fill the silence; we tap surfaces to an imaginary beat in our minds. Music is everywhere, whether we realise it or not.

While I can’t possibly write about every musical I’ve seen, I will discuss three musical couples that had me either dancing with joy or sobbing on the floor. Most of these were tragedies, or had tragic elements. Apologies in advance.

The Great Gatsby is a literary classic that recently turned into a Broadway spectacle. It’s a musical about post-war America and the differences between social classes. Gatsby, a lower-class man that rose to wealth through crime, has loved Daisy since they first met before the war. The only problem is that she comes from ‘old money’. For a minute, their romance really makes you think “they could have a chance”, with their heart-wrenching power ballad ‘My Green Light’. But the green light — which symbolises both the American dream and Daisy herself — remains unattainable for Gatsby as he’s too engrossed in making more money, thinking it will make Daisy love him. Gatsby chooses the memory of Daisy from before the war.

Another couple that could’ve had it all are Orpheus and Eurydice in Hadestown, if only their story wasn’t already set in stone. Everyone knows how it goes: Eurydice dies, Orpheus follows her to the Underworld, Hades lets him bring her back as long as he doesn’t turn around. But no matter what version of the story you hear, it always ends the same; Orpheus looks back. This musical is no different.

Tragedy aside, this musical is basically filled with the most beautiful vows of love I’ve ever seen. Take a look at this verse in ‘Promises’:

“I don’t know where this road will end
but I’ll walk it with you hand in hand.
I can’t promise you fair sky above,
can’t promise you kind road below.
But I’ll walk beside you, love,
any way the wind blows.”

It gives the same vibes as traditional wedding vows, “for better or for worse, in sickness and in health”, but with more tangible concepts. If only Orpheus didn’t choose the memory of her before she died.

But in the midst of all these tragic romances, there is The Notebook. Allie and Noah are summer flings who were initially driven apart due to class differences. Despite Noah’s low class, he builds Allie’s dream house with blue walls and a wraparound porch and, in the end, that’s where they live happily ever after. It’s still a bittersweet love story since Allie ends up developing Alzheimer’s disease and constantly has to be reminded about her husband, but Noah stays with her all those years and tells her their story every time. They’re a testament to a love that endures, even when the skies are dark and the roads are hard, in sickness and in health, and for better or for worse.

Let these couples teach you a little something about love. It’s normal for something to go wrong; that’s just an inevitable thing with love. Someday, you will have to make the choice.

The poet’s choice or the lover’s choice?


When You Wish Upon a Star, and Other Wishing Traditions
By Dorion Anderson

“When you wish upon a star
Makes no difference who you are
Anything your heart desires
Will come to you”
—When You Wish Upon a Star, Pinocchio (1940)

I have found myself wishing a lot less since I started going to Hogwarts. There’s much less to wish for, as a Muggleborn, when you find out that magic is real and that you can make a lot of your wishes come true with spells. But for this issue, I wanted to explore the different kinds of wishing traditions that exist. I will be giving brief histories, so please feel free to research these and find out even more about them! Here are my top five favourite wishing methods and where they come from.

1. Wishing On A Star
This has two different versions: you can wish on the first star you see in the sky or on a shooting star. It feels like one of the most natural wishing methods to come to exist, since the stars have always been around. It used to be even easier to see them, because of today’s light pollution. It's really hard to say where this tradition started, because there’s a chance its history is so old it wasn’t recorded. The ancient Egyptians had some ideas relating to the stars, believing that when you died you would ascend up to them. Ptolemy, an astronomer, thought that the stars were a sign that the gods were looking down on the earth. To wish on a star was a form of prayer. There are many other cultures and ancient origins who wish upon stars, but those are two popular ones.

2. Wishing Wells
Opposed to the stars, the wishing well is an inherently man-made wish, and one that came later, because… well… wells needed to exist first. These came from Europe, and were invented because water was a precious resource and a source of life. Since springs and wells ended up being associated with gods, a sacrifice usually had to go along with a wish, which is how coin tossing came to be. This expanded over time to ponds, fountains, and other large water sources associated with deities. Some famous fountains today will clear out the coins at a certain point of the year and donate them to different causes in their area!

3. Sky Lanterns
As I’m not part of a culture that has lantern festivals, my first exposure to them was through the Muggle movie Tangled! Lantern festivals involve the practice of releasing paper lanterns into the water or the air. One version floats them along waterways while the other has a fire inside that magically floats them into the air (it’s just science, I don’t know). People will write their wishes for good fortune, health, relationships, and studying. China is most often associated with lantern festivals, its most famous one being the Chinese Lantern festival, or yuánxiāo jié.

4. Birthday Candles
This is one tradition I’m incredibly familiar with, and I wish on candles every year! However, there are rules to this type of wishing, which many people don’t know: you have to blow out all of the candles with one breath, and you have to keep your wish a secret. This dates back to ancient Greece and Germany, who often used candles to honor the deities in their lives. This is kind of similar to sacrificing something for the wishing well, except it’s just like “Hey! I lit a candle for you, please grant my wish after I blow it out with my very impressive breath.”

5. Wishing Trees
Here’s another cultural wishing tradition I haven’t really had any exposure to! It has a few different forms around the world. In 17th century Scotland, they would hammer coins into trunks of hawthorn trees after they had made their wish. In Japan, the most well-known country for this tradition, they tie paper with wishes written on them to bamboo. This happens most often during the Tanabata festival, and Turkey has a similar custom. Hong Kong inhabitants tie wishes to oranges, then throw them into a wishing tree. In the United States, Native American tribes such as the Lakota and the Seminole have a special prayer tie that they attach to a tree during the Sun Dance ceremony. The colors of the ties have different meanings based on the theme of the wish.

Those are just five examples of wishing traditions, and even within those they differ between cultures. It is obvious that wishing is a universal experience, through writing down hopes and sending them off in an effort to be heard by someone out there. I encourage you to wish, and wish often, my fellow wizards. Wish for your friends, for yourself, for good grades and for better opportunities. But don’t forget that you are your own greatest resource for making those dreams come true.


Gift Guide By House
By Simon Kincaid

We were all sorted into our houses based on specific personality traits that were valued by one of Hogwarts’ founders. Therefore, it’s safe to conclude that with this common bond, we can use one’s house as a guide to gift-giving, for Valentine’s Day or any occasion.

Here are some of my personal recommendations for gifts based on our houses:

GRYFFINDOR -
Bucket list notebook to keep track of adventures.
Compass to find their way while exploring.
Swiss Army Knife, all adventurers need some safety essentials if they can’t fight.
Experiences to encounter animal or plant life.
Backpack to place items in for their adventures.
Wizarding camera to capture the moments.
Water bottle to remain hydrated through it all.
A map of the world to explore.

RAVENCLAW -
Books. Or books. Or books. Or maybe a nice book!
A book would also go well with those books.
Bookmarks, bookends.
A journal or a calendar to keep organized with school assignments and exam dates.
Pens, stationery, or a wax seal set.
Candles or a lantern for reading and studying at night.
A map of the world to read about.

SLYTHERIN
Legos - they’ve got the determination to build them, and if they can’t, they can scatter them on the floor as a weapon.
Inspirational posters with sayings like “You did not wake up to be mediocre”.
Anything snake related.
A luxurious green bathrobe - they will love it, and they all look wonderful in green.
A fancy box of chocolates for sharing with a chosen few.
A venus flytrap.
A map of the world to conquer.

HUFFLEPUFF
Your love and kindness.
A donation to charity.
Feel-good items like warm blankets, cosy socks, and hot chocolate.
“House plants”.
A list of places to volunteer.
A fancy box of chocolates for sharing with everyone.
A map of the world so they can wish for world peace.


There it is, Hogwarts. Give your peers a great gift this Valentine’s season! Be thoughtful! And, as always, be kind to one another!
- Simon Kincaid


Dress Like Your Venus!
By Meyra Lancaster

One of the symbols of the upcoming Valentine’s season is the ancient Greek goddess Aphrodite, who in Roman times adopted the name Venus. Venus, the goddess of love and beauty, is the goddess linked to all matters of the heart. She was responsible for the perpetuation of life, pleasure and joy. In myths, she is often presented as vain, seductive, and charming. But when she loved, she did so unconditionally. The planet Venus, after the Earth’s moon, is the most visible point of light in the vast darkness of the universe. Perhaps, like its namesake, it has the need to be noticed, making itself known by its presence and beautiful glow.

Therefore, it seems logical to me that by reading our astral chart, we can find out which style represents our Venus self. It is said that those who dress according to their Venus are able to reveal their most charismatic side, becoming the most authentic and charming version of themselves.

We can discover which sign corresponds to our Venus when, through reading the stars, we discover the position of that planet on our date of birth. We need to cross the path of Venus in the skies with the time, date, year and place of our birth. Sounds like an exercise fit for Valentine's Day! Maybe we can all ask Professor Starwise or Professor Clairmont for help!

“So,” you may be asking, “how do I dress like my Venus zodiac sign?” Worry not, as I'm going to leave you with a little guide of fashion advice!

If your Venus sign is Aries, your style is bold and sophisticated. You were not born to follow fashions, but to create your own trends.

For those who have Taurus as their sign in Venus, their style is a romantic, soft, and elegant style. The use of pearls, flowers, silks, velvets, lace and pastel colors is common.

Venus in Gemini, is a young, cheerful, and colorful style. The important thing is to adapt your style to your moods and to the occasion. The use of different patterns and fun textures is your biggest fashion secret!

If your Venus sign is Cancer, your style is vintage, flowy and soft. There is something mysterious and sultry about you.

Leos, as we already know, are the most dramatic. Your style reflects this impeccable! Your looks are extravagant and you love the use of bold colors.

If your Venus sign is Virgo, then you are the opposite of Leo! Your style is simple and minimalistic. The use of neutral tones and classic cuts is what makes you so captivating.

Venus in Libra! Just thinking about these two elements together we already know we have found something close to perfection! Your style is classic, feminine, and literally speaks “old money”!

Venus in Scorpio brings the darkest and most mysterious looks. Think “vampire” and you’re good to go! From the use of leather, silk, and laces, your style is gothic and bold!

If you are a Sagittarius in Venus, then your style reflects your adventurous and fun spirit. You have a relaxed and comfortable style. You dress for the next challenge!

Capricorns have a Venus style through and through, a professional and powerful look. You look clean and chic! You’re living the philosophy of “quality over quantity” even in your dress code.

Venus in Aquarius is an alternative, eccentric, and androgenic style. You can use and abuse different prints, patterns and fabrics! Be unique with your fashion statements!

If your Venus sign is Pisces, then your style is soft, gentle, and ethereal. Imagine a serene mermaid or a water fairy. This is the perfect look for you!

Hurry up, Valentine's Day is just around the corner! Get ready to buy your best outfit by following these tips to win the heart of your other half!


Love Beyond Romance: A Modern Muggle Tradition
By Matthew Campbell

The month of February has for hundreds of years been synonymous with romantic love given the fall of Valentine’s Day on the fourteenth. Yet as the world changes and modern culture adapts to society more and more, people have done away with the antiquated belief that the holiday need only celebrate love in one form. As we all well know, love takes many shapes from familial to platonic to romantic, it is a force that knows no bounds, so why limit ourselves in celebrations?

An original celebration created for the television series, Parks and Recreation, Galentine's Day was the first iteration before Palentine’s prevailed on top. The act of celebrating one’s friendships is a universal experience that can transcend all barriers of love. Typically celebrated the day after the traditional Valentine's day, Palentine’s is a time to gather your closest circle of friends and prove to each other that love transcends all, and that while romantic love is special the bond between friendships is everlasting.

Friendship can often surpass the bounds of regular relationships and even family in certain cases, after all these are the dedicated people you have decided to navigate life with. Therefore taking the time to really appreciate all that you do in each other's lives is a most precious gift.

This February dear readers I hope to see the halls of Hogwarts not only celebrated with romantic notions but cosy nights in with friends to appreciate the constants in your life. Let's celebrate those who have been by our sides through every relationship and hopefully will be for many more to come. Whether it’s a butterbeer in Hogsmeade, a firelit book night in your dormitory, or a stargazing picnic under the moon, let's use this time to truly thank those wonderful connections in our lives.

I would also like to take a moment dear readers to remind ourselves of one other celebration we should hold just as dear on this very special month, though it does not yet have a name. That celebration would be the love we should all have for ourselves. Often in life, we get too busy focusing on those around us that we forget to look inwards and find that special feeling for ourselves. Love is a complicated emotion full of mystery and misunderstanding but to be truly loved one must first see themselves as capable. I would like to take this moment to remind each of our monthly readers that they are worthy of love and deserve all of the affection they put out to be returned to them. So this February, make space for all types of love and especially make room for yourself.

Whomever you decide to spend this holiday period with, I hope that it is spent with love.


Spring Awakening: Your March Horoscope
by The North Star

Fellow witches, wizards, and curious majority,

The time has come to place our bets on the lives of Hogwarts' stars and the scandals surrounding us for the season of rebirth and new beginnings steadily approaching. It goes without question that March stands to be the most tumultuous playmaker upon the celestial playground. With two major planetary shifts occurring on March 7th and March 23rd, a Penumbral Lunar Eclipse on March 25th, and a Mercury Retrograde looming in the distant future, all zodiacs will experience will be greeted with both challenge and growth.

With that, it is my pleasure to deliver you the cosmic forecast of March;

Aries: Have you noticed how introspection and discipline have cultivated your spiritual growth? Very demure, very mindful. Continue to set goals, and be particular about the energy you exert and to whom you devote that energy. Do not overextend yourself to others without receiving in return; it is the time to be selfish but classy.

Taurus: As the phrase says, "The brighter the star, the faster it burns." Luckily for you, you will only burn bright this season. The planetary shifts of March will encourage confidence and bold decisions, and this era of new beginnings will deliver new connections and friendships that will facilitate this growth and cultivate your self-esteem. Your circle may be small at this time, but it shall be complete with those who share your zest for life and love.

Gemini: Your perfection shall not deteriorate, my dear Gemini, but it can evolve. You must relinquish your past sentiments and afflictions to achieve this season's rewards. Putting your best and most unique self out there — the social butterfly we know and adore — enables you to define life on your terms. How will you rewrite power structures and social norms to achieve your desired success?

Cancer: It is time to reap the rewards of your labour, for the energy at which you ended 2024 will manifest for you this season. The energy devoted to your endeavours cultivated last year will finally receive a well-earned upgrade; was it your art, craft, friendships, or relationships? Regardless of the fruition that will come, you shall come to appreciate the season as it will push you out of your shell.

Leo: As your energy is infectious, your roar is mighty, and your determination is insatiable, you will be required to make significant changes to maintain your greatness. You err too closely in your comfort zone; how can the sun continually shine if it cannot weather the storm? With the growing pains you're enduring, the lessons this season delivers will shape you into the person you're meant to become.

Virgo: Now that you have gained fresh perspectives and practised effective communication that cultivated new and existing connections, it is your time to shine. Remember, energy goes both ways — do not give too much without receiving. You must exercise caution amid these partnerships to balance meticulousness and impulsivity with your energy.

Libra: Allowing yourself to purge situations and people not serving you has allowed you to become introspective about your needs and desires. Now that you're developing a more spiritual and structured mindset, the energy or lack thereof you have projected into this time of cultivation will manifest as the ultimate test of your growth — are you ready to reap what you sow?

Scorpio: As aforementioned last December, the effort you've devoted to your endeavuors at the beginning of this year will trailblaze you on a path to glory. You will internally desire to take a risk, but be cautious not to dive headfirst into commitments without time to reflect on these developments' impacts on your other areas of life.

Sagittarius: Your preparation and healthy introspective habits cultivated last year have amplified your sense of intuition, but I am sure you're growing aware of this by the day. Good fortune will be on your side as you take on new challenges, and those around you will realise you are a force to be reckoned with.

Capricorn: Since last December, you've felt freer to express yourself without restriction. Your indifference to ruffling feathers will cultivate fresh acquaintances who appreciate your voice.

Aquarius: On March 23rd, Pluto will be shifting to the sign of Aquarius, and I daresay you are up for a thrilling season ahead. Your standard intensity will be heightened to new extremes, and your sense of control will be elevated. Your willpower will bring upheavals in your existing social circles; the only question is, can you handle it?

Pisces: On March 7th, Saturn enters Pisces. Like Aquarius, this equinox will deliver a surge of willpower to propel you further in your ventures. The inner artist inside will cultivate a reality that is entirely yours should you continually distance yourself from buffoonery.

Yours truly,
The North Star


Quidditch Review
By Oonagh Brown

Hey Readers, 

As you know, the first Quidditch Stage is officially over, and now the next one is right around the corner. So see this as a bit of a refresher for those who are rightfully invested in the sport and as a summary for those of you who have no clue but wish to be included in the conversations at dinner tables. You could just do yourself a service and be invested in the sport though. 

Let’s go back to the Fall Games and look at our match-ups. The first game was played between Gryffindor and Hufflepuff, and the other match was between Slytherin and Ravenclaw. Let us begin with a review of the latter.

The Slytherin team started into the game with its Captain Dan Palmer as a seeker and their Co-Captain Koko Riddle as a keeper. Very quickly into the game, Ravenclaw maintains control over the quaffle, scoring them 50 points, while both teams' seekers are left looking for the snitch. Jorah and Ebony are the first ones to drop to the ground while Lavinia gets saved and shares a broom with Charlie. Slytherin however quickly turns the tables once Dan gains control over the quaffle and scores 50 points (which did not prove difficult with no one defending the hoops or fighting him over the quaffle). Rebecca is bludgered by Percival and dropped to the ground, and while his attempt to hit Charlie and Lavinia, sharing the broom, fails, Koko is swift to rectify the situation and simply blatches the duo out of the sky. Winnie goes for Percival, successfully mind you, but to no avail when he is safely returned to his broom right away by Avery. In retaliation, Maggie goes for Quinn and knocks her off. At this point, it is seriously not looking great for Ravenclaw, or it wouldn’t be if it weren't for Aly, who showed clear signs of having spotted the snitch and moved on to chase it! However, said hope dies quickly when Dan swoops in and grabs the snitch out of the air, while Percival knocks Maeve from her broom with a bludger for good measure. In the meantime, Koko, Winnie and Maggie all had to complete a penalty lap. Not a good day for Ravenclaw, Slytherin leaves the pitch victorious. 

Pax, the Captain of Gryffindor, and the Co-Captain Ethan are both beaters, the objectively best role in Quidditch. On the Hufflepuff team, Captain Avery is in the role of the beater whereas Co-Captain Lea is scared of the action and watches from the stands. As for the game itself, it starts off smoothly, and fairly normally. Finnegan is in possession of the quaffle and scores 20 points for Gryffindor with Atlas admittedly doing a decent job. Both Elsian and Ethen have their eyes on the snitch immediately, however as we soon learn, that doesn’t mean anything if they don’t manage to actually catch it! The violent opening of the game however is quite beautiful. Ethan knocks off both Tesla and Ethen with well-directed bludgers but is then blatched himself and caught by Wren. Pax, the captain of Gryffindor, is knocked off their broom right away, but at the very least manages to take Eugenia with them. Niamh too is knocked out of the sky by Tesla with the primary target Alejandro barely holding on. After switching in Aodhan is nowhere near the goalposts, allowing  Jess to score 50 free points. While Ethan manages to hit Roxette, the Hufflepuff chaser manages to hold on and Ethan misses his secondary target entirely. For the chasers, it is a standoff between Finnegan and Atlas, and with neither team’s keeper guarding the hoops, Finnegan scores 30 points for Gryffindor and Atlas 20 points for Hufflepuff. Meanwhile, I take out Daphne and Avery. With both of Hufflepuff’s seekers gone, it is only a question of time before the game ends in Gryffindor’s favour, though a lot of time has passed and many players, especially me, are getting tired by the game dragging on. While Elsian is still chasing after the snitch, Finnegan scores 20 points for Gryffindor, and Atlas scores another 10 points for Hufflepuff. It is really not looking great for Hufflepuff at this point with many of the players barely hanging onto their brooms. In the finale, I manage to bludger Jess out of the sky while Alyssea barely manages to hold on, while Finnegan scores another 20 for Gryffindor. Alyssea only scored 10 points for Hufflepuff and Elsian finally managed to catch up with the snitch and end the game. Leaving Gryffindor with a total of 270 points and Hufflepuff with a mere 80.

Final Scores
Gryffindor: 270
Slytherin: 200
Hufflepuff: 80
Ravenclaw: 50

Cheers,
Oonagh


Feature: Gobstones Club and How to Play its Muggle Equivalent
By Tristan Theramin

Perhaps you have been squirted by a Gobstone before, an object forever marked with an awful smell, indicating your loss of a match. Well, did you know that there is a group of people dedicated to this game of Gobstones right here at Hogwarts? They call themselves the Gobstones Extravaganza—well, at least, I do—and I am the captain of this great and fabulous club. Today, I had the wonderful opportunity to share an interview with one of its members, Colin McCoire, who is also part of the fantastic team of people who work in our Headliner.

What do you like about the Gobstones Club?

“I think it's cool that kids from all four houses can play together and it doesn't matter how old we are or even if we've never played before. Anyone can learn!”

How would you describe Gobstones to a person who’s never played it?  

“It's the Best Game! You've each got so many stones and you've got to knock the other person's stones off the court before they do the same to you. But you've also got to strategise! You've got to think where all the stones are on the court and what kind of throw your opponent is going to use. Plus! Anyone can play—even firsties who don't even know which end of their wand they should grab hold of. In fact, gobstones are kind of like duelling. I mean, we play on a court and there's different strategies. Only we use stones and not spells. Heheheh. Unless you want to cheat!”

If you were the inventor of Gobstones, what would you have added?

“I would add charmed stones that have different random effects, like blowing up in hundreds of sparks; and a stone doubling charm! It could either double its own effect, or if you mess up, it doubles your opponent's stone!”

Now, as you know, I am a supporter of Muggle and Muggle-born rights, so I had to ask Colin what he thought a Muggle version of this game would look like.

“Have you ever heard of Jacks? It’s a bit of a queer game, really. Muggles only play it with someone named “Jack”. So, you’ve got this ball right? And after you throw Jack on the floor, you’ve got to throw the ball into the air. And when the ball’s in the air, you have to pick Jack up off the floor and catch the ball! Easy! I could play with Jack Burnett, only I’d have to use the levitation charm to pick him up off the floor. I’m not sure if it would be cheating to do that or not. He’d be easier to pick up that way, though! I’m not really sure why Muggles play games that you can only play with people named Jack. That seems kind of odd to me. But Muggles do odd things! Oh! Marble throwing!”

Now, isn’t that a strange description? I believe Colin is talking about the Muggle game of Jacks, but the Muggleborn readers are probably cackling at the silliness of its description. There is indeed a game like the one Colin described, though the “Jack” is a metal piece that looks like an “x”.

There is also a game called Pétanque, which is quite similar to Gobstones, but it is played standing up with large metal balls. The goal of the Pétanque is to throw the most balls closest to a smaller target ball. It is played in teams of one, two, or three. I hope any of you Purebloods learned a new fact about the Muggle world, and hopefully, the Muggle-borns and Half-bloods reading this had a good laugh.


Club Feature: Flying Club
by Oonagh Brown

Hey Readers,

The idea that Flying is the first step to being able to play Quidditch is not lost to me, I had come to that conclusion before I even joined the school during the summer camp. And who would not wish to join Quidditch? It allows you to start fights, in midair, with bats and metal balls, without getting into trouble. Others seem to agree, and that is why there is a Flying Club managed by Damion White. 

Luckily for you, Damion had time and agreed to an interview with the Headliner in order to talk a bit about himself and his club. So here we are now. 

Oonagh: “Hey Damion, let’s get this started. Tell the readers a little about yourself?”

Damion: "Hey Oonagh! Sure, let's get started. I am Damion White, Ravenclaw Duelling Team Co-Captain and a sixth-year student. I am from Gresford, Wales. I am the only child of my parents. I don't have any siblings."

Oonagh: “What was your intention behind founding the Flying Club?”

Damion: "I created the club because I wanted to meet new people and give younger students tips on flying their brooms carefully and not hurt themselves. I love the ability to fly a broom and the feeling of wind going through my face and hair."

Oonagh: "Would you consider flying a broom a skill everyone should know? Why?"

Damion: "Yes I would consider flying a broom a skill everyone should know because it gives people who know how to fly an ability to escape via a broom in sticky situations. Let me explain what I mean by escaping sticky situations. For instance, I am surrounded by some bullies and they are getting too much into my face and every time I throw a spell at them, they are able to overpower it so I could accio my broom to me and get away from it."

Oonagh: "Are there any requirements for students to join the club?"

Damion: "No. There are no requirements for the students to join my club. Any and everyone is welcome in the Flying Club. Even if you have a school broom you can be a part of the Club."

Oonagh: "How often are the meetings and how does a usual club meeting look like?"

Damion: "The ideal meetings that I would like to have is to have the club meet every two weeks. Sometimes that doesn't happen due to study load and my other co-curricular activities. But I will try and manage my time better so I am able to have a club meeting once every two weeks. The club meetings are held in the Quidditch Training Pitch. I talk about Flying safely and we take laps around the Stadium following the Safety rules. I also provide some refreshments for the members of the club. "

Oonagh: "What broom would you personally recommend for students who are interested in flying?"

Damion: "I'd say Firebolt as it's the fastest Broom that a student can have."

While I do not agree with the reasoning that escaping tricky situations is the best example, I do agree with the importance of the flying skill, and yes, it does give you the upper hand in a lot of situations, but another good reason for flying a broom is all the games and opportunities that come with it. The convenience when it comes to getting to Hogsmeade quickly or just getting to experience the Scottish winds midair is another huge bonus to acquiring the skill. So go out, learn how to fly a broom and reach out to Damion to join that club if you want to! 

If rules and regulations are not your thing, I am sure there are other ways to learn the skill without worrying about the safety of it. Regardless of how you do it, you should give flying a go, I speak from experience when I say it is a whole bunch of fun! You also get to connect with a lot of like-minded people who will share your love for the sport! Or find your first rival, which can be equally as fun.

Perhaps I will see you on the Quidditch Pitch!

Cheers,
Oonagh Brown


Muggle Item of the Month: The Printing Press
By Dorion Anderson

I’m not going to lie, my dear Muggle enthusiasts, I have no idea how wizards print newspapers. Whether it’s with spells or a magical printing press, I simply do not know. What I can tell you about, though, is the history of print evolution in the Muggle world! We’ve come so far, from reproducing literary works with hand-written manuscripts to typing on computers and printing with machines. Printing components such as paper and ink have their own history, which I won’t be getting into this issue.

The oldest evidence we have of printing comes from Korea, though the date of printing seems to be inconsistent across my research, as it could be anywhere from 600 to 800 CE. The piece is a book, called The Pure Light Dharani Sutra, which was printed using woodblocks. This book was made with hemp paper, which was pressed onto wooden blocks that had the text carved into them.

China ended up using this printing style later, employing woodblock printing for early mass-produced books. However, their level of mass production had a much different definition than ours. China made the first movable type out of clay, meaning that the characters could be swapped out of a template to assemble to text, as opposed to the woodblocks, which could not be switched around. Since clay is so fragile and easy to break, other materials such as metal were eventually adapted for movable type.

That section of printing history is often overlooked because of the invention of the Gutenberg press, invented by its namesake Johannes Gutenberg in Germany in 1440. This press changed the whole printing game. Instead of pressing the printing material (cloth or paper) onto the inked surface, the inked surface was now pressed into the printing material. There are a lot of pieces involved in the process, and it requires a decent amount of skill to make sure that the prints come out clean. Though no one really uses them commercially, these presses still exist for demonstration purposes.

Over time, more and more printing methods were invented. It was possible to have italicized text, different coloured inks on one page, mini books, and even different languages as the printmakers adapted to what they needed. Papermaking began to expand, becoming bigger, better and more advanced.

The next big printing invention, the Linotype Machine, was made in 1884 by Ottmar Mergenthaler. This came 444 years after Gutenberg’s—for those of you who like astrology, there might be something in that. The Linotype Machine made everything automatic. It set the letters into a line as you typed, meaning you didn’t have to set each and every letter individually anymore! The Linotype still printed line by line, but it was a huge revolution for printing, especially news printing, as articles didn’t take a week to set up and print before distribution.

One of the next inventions was Offset Printing. It originally appeared in 1875, before the Linotype Machine, but it really kicked off in 1904. This was groundbreaking for colour printing because it used a rotating rubber cylinder! This technique was discovered by accident by Ira Washington Rubel, who forgot a step in the printing process, and discovered that the rubber element of the print made sharper images than the metal that they were using previously.

This was just a very brief overview of the evolution of printing, and how it came to be. Between the 1900s and the present, there have been, of course, an incredible amount of inventions. But these were some of my favourites, showing off how we made it to where we are today in the printing industry!


Magical & Muggle Meals: Burn-Healing Pasta
By Aly Salinger

Potion-brewing is about as close as the average wix will come in their life to cooking like a Muggle. Chopping valerian, crushing Sopophorous beans, and mixing your brew- it's all very similar, and by the end, you’ve (hopefully) created something consumable. 

In fact, potions have begun to find their way into drinks, with some magical bartenders adding the likes of the Elixir to Induce Euphoria into their cocktails in order to give them a little extra kick. (We do not advise that you do the same with Amortentia, no matter what month of the year it is.) As such, why not do the same with food, albeit with a bit of a safer approach?

Surely some of you, readers, have burned your mouths or throats on scalding food in the past. It can feel awkward smearing Burn-Healing Paste on the inside of your mouth, so turning it into a delicious meal will save you the embarrassment of coming back from the Hospital Wing unable to speak lest you spit up the paste. This “cool” and extraordinarily simple recipe will serve as an antidote for your charred chops, and you’ll be able to make Burn-Healing Pasta not only as a medicine, but also a dish for whenever you’re fearing flaming fare!

Burn-Healing Pasta
Serves: 4 people with burnt mouths.
Time: 15-20 minutes (may seem like longer with a burnt mouth and waiting for relief!)
Ingredients:
1 container of dried fusilli/rotini pasta.**
1 tablespoon of salt.
Water from your wand (*tap water).
1 jar of Burn-Healing Paste.***
*½ bottle of Italian salad dressing.
*Grated Parmesan cheese.
*1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
*1 bag of frozen mixed vegetables (optional).
*1 can of sliced olives (optional).

*Muggle alternative.
**Easily acquired at any Muggle supermarket; just make sure to bring Muggle currency! This is the short, spiral-shaped kind of pasta.
***Ingredients and brewing directions can be found here or from Professor Regan.

Directions:
1. In a cauldron (*pot) over a flame set to high, cast Aguamenti (*pour water) until you have about 4 quarts full.
2. Add salt and stir, then wait for water to boil or use the Hot Air Charm to speed up the process.
3. When water boils, add pasta and cook for about 7 minutes or until firm and tender, but not too soft or mushy. This is a Muggle term known as “al dente”, but don’t say that out loud- we have not verified yet that it won’t work as an unknown spell if you have your wand in your hand.
4. Drain cooked pasta and allow it to fully cool.
5. If making the Muggle version, or if you are making the magical version and would like some extra vegetables, cook frozen vegetables over medium heat until tender, but not mushy, just like the pasta. This can be done in the same cauldron/pot by emptying the pasta and adding the olive oil or butter before the vegetables. When vegetables are fully cooked, remove from heat and allow to fully cool.
6. If making the magical version, mix your pasta into your Burn-Healing Paste. You may need to add some water to thin the paste into a sauce, but otherwise, you are done! Serve cold. Enjoy!
7. If making the Muggle version, toss your pasta in with the cooled vegetables, olives, Italian salad dressing, and as much Parmesan cheese as your heart desires. Serve cold. Enjoy!

Love: The Universal Language
By Cupid

Dear Readers, while you might have thought you had seen the last of me after Valentine’s passing, this little cherub’s work wasn’t quite over. If you thought I could pass up the opportunity to attend the first Beauxbatons international event, you would be quite mistaken. After all, France is home to the city of love. Flitting around the radiant, palatial halls of French aristocracy, I had the privilege to expand my own personal horizons of romance across the globe that I can now share with you Headliner enthusiasts. From Asia to America, join me in learning a little more about this universal language, so we may speak it more fluently with one another.

My first stop took us to Japan, where a shy but sweet boy by the name of Mateo Yamamato told me all about young love: “In Japan, girls give chocolates to their friends or crush, and on White Day, a month after Valentines, we boys gift the girls we received chocolates from.” An endearing tradition from a similarly endearing boy, who was just as interested in sharing his culture as learning from others. Though, like in love, things are not simple no matter the geography as the boy shared his troubles: “If you find yourself in a situation, similar to mine, where you like someone but know their taken, don't give up!”.

Making our way to Germany, one lovesick teen couldn’t help but pour out his heart. While Hans Jenssen from Durmstrang didn’t have any traditions prior to this year, he proved that love can change everything, and he admitted his picnic date was a failure – he was “pretty sure [he] got friend zoned”. We see his bravery as a cause for success that clearly drove home his advice, “I once read somewhere that saying you like someone is a compliment, not a shameful confession or something. Tell them, and at least that would keep you from just hanging there. Plus, I have a feeling they like you back!”. With such remarkable spirit, love will surely find him again.

One of Hogwarts' very own, Haven Bohannon, was next sharing the secrets of the Irish, whose luck is notorious but as for love? We’ll leave that up to you to decide. “People visit the Shrine of St. Valentine to get blessings for their relationship. The Claddagh ring is a popular symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship. People will use it as an engagement or wedding ring.” Some beautiful timeless traditions, but personally, I preferred her own traditions of playing Mario Kart with her family. When questioned on what love meant to her, the girl mystified this cherub stating, “Ducks. Definitely ducks.” Truly quacking stuff!

It seemed that love was on the cards for one pair of students destined to meet, struck by my very arrow. Geneviève Caussade from Beauxbatons and Alphonse Toussaint, a Haitian former student of Castelobruxo, found a little more than pastries at this momentous event. Both shared their joy with us, Geneviève saying, “This year I happened to meet one handsome individual, and I can feel my heart race when I envision his eyes. We had such a romantic week, spending all our free time talking, dancing, and laughing.” A sentiment shared with Alphonse when asked if he came here seeking love, spiced with a little parental spite. “Heck no, my man ─ I came to Beauxbatons because the Ilvermorny Headmaster forced me to. But I met a girl here! So I guess, thanks Dad?”.

Leading nicely into our final love ambassador, Cyrus Darsel of Ilvermorny, whose duck centric fashion would certainly give Haven some heart fluttering. Defying stereotypes, the boy opted for a far more poetic approach to love that I think we could all learn from: “Oh man! I think it's sometimes when you value someone or something enough to put them before yourself and cherish them in everything you do. But also, it can be a warm little feeling of joy that you get when around someone or something, a deep-down appreciation for them. It's all the colours in the world shining brightly, all the good things in the world coming together in your heart.” A sentiment most cherished by this god of love.

While each student had their own traditions and opinions, one thing remained true throughout each of my interviews. The truth that while love may seem complicated, when it’s true, it defies all bounds. Leaving you with one final piece of advice from the lovely Miss Caussade, I bid thee farewell: “Love is not easy. You must work for it and care for it as though it is the small seedling of a great oak tree. As it blossoms, so will you – and as it grows stronger so will you.”

With love,
Cupid


Beauxbatons Event: Interview With the Headmaster
By Tristan Theramin

It is quite poignant that Beauxbatons was the location of Valentine’s Day celebrations. After all, France is known as the country of lovers. As some may know, Headmaster Albrecht and Headmistress De La Croix-Valmer were in charge of the celebration. Through a strange and perhaps unfortunate circumstance, I, Tristan Theramin, came upon the chance to interview Emery Albrecht, headmaster of Durmstrang. He is a strange and elusive man; perhaps it is better to describe him as a force of nature.

I had attended the events on the week of the 14th of February. The headmaster suddenly appeared to me near the end of the week, somehow knowing that I wrote for the Hogwarts paper. It is still a mystery to me how he knew, or why he would want a mere student to be the first to reveal certain motivations to the world. These are mysteries that I am not sure I will ever solve. He stared deep into my soul, it seemed, and I felt compelled to ask him for an interview with a strange urgency. He must have had ulterior motives, as he agreed quickly, the sole contingency being that his words must be exactly copied. I had hoped for a silly conversation on the lighthearted events of the week, but somehow the interview turned darker, its themes touching on rumours about the foreboding yet caring headmaster. This is how the conversation went.

Some suspect that you are headmaster only for your ulterior motives, that you have connections to the vampires, the goblins, or the giants and that you desire a revolution or a war. Is there truth to this rumour? I felt these words slip out of my mouth almost involuntarily. The headmaster scoffed lightheartedly, but I could sense there was something dark hidden beneath the veneer of a teacher and a nurturer.

“And what could the wizarding world do if I were planning such a revolution?” He rambled with a twinkle in his eye. “They let me have this position, they let me have control over many things, and no one ever suspects me. Of course, it’s because I would never do such a thing and they trust me. But no one could ever stop me from meddling, if I did.” I could not tell if he was jesting or if there was truly something wrong with the Durmstrang headmaster in front of me. His tone was a jest, yet there was something about him that felt dangerous.

I found stories of your work in the government. What did you do that made everyone so secretive about you? I had found very few stories of his work in the government in the years before his professorship at Durmstrang. Buried stories signify there are secrets to be kept, and I suspect such secrets can be dangerous.

“Oh, it's because no one thinks the creatures deserve ambassadors. It's worse than the relations with muggles.”

When I looked into his eyes, it felt as if he knew everything about me. It was disconcerting because I could read nothing of him, even though I was known for possessing such a talent. “Or you could always imagine the world is better, and I was part of—what do you English call it—intelligence work.” At times, I found myself trembling at his demeanour during this interview, yet the headmaster was so warm and charming at the same time. In poetic words, it seemed as though he were both an angel and a monster in the same essence.

I was once again compelled to ask a question I would not usually have asked.

Have you ever seen thestrals, Headmaster Albrecht? I thought of my deceased best friend of old at that moment.

“Yes, I have, and I can see them for quite a similar reason as you, perhaps,” was his response. Once again, there was the disconcerting feeling that the headmaster knew everything about me. He continued, “I live, and I feel guilty at times for doing so, but at other times, I am desperate to continue living forever, and I cannot bear the thought of dying.”

There were many more things I asked him about and that he spoke on, yet he refused to let me share them, and I cannot seem to disobey him. All I can say is that the headmaster cannot be trusted, but if anything or anyone ever wins his loyalty, he will be a reckoning force against any who dare cross them. The moment the interview ended, I wanted to ask more, but he disappeared and left the premises quickly. I was unable to ask for another interview, which I so desperately wanted to do.


April Horoscopes
By The North Star

Fellow witches, wizards, and curious majority,

As our student body recuperates from the enchanting events of the Spring Soiree, let it be known that higher powers are at play, and there is much more to unpack among the cosmos. Without further adieu, it is my pleasure to deliver you the cosmic forecast for April.

Aries: A burst of confidence and newfound clarity will surround your closest allies, or, should you choose the path of a lone wolf, you will find self-assurance. The universe is prompting you to seek balance regarding destructive patterns.

Taurus: Meditation will serve as your guiding light this month, illuminating the path forward and halting the doubt that plagues you. Remember to set goals and be selective about how you spend your energy—you might realise that it's time to reevaluate to restore your inner peace.

Gemini: Expect exciting networking interactions, social connections, career opportunities, and spiritual growth in your career and long-term goals. Your voice is your superpower, my beloved Geminis, and it's time to share your passion and creativity with the universe!

Cancer: Sharpening your communication skills, emotional control, and a solid work-life balance will finally give you the inner peace you've been hungry for, Cancers. Take advantage of new opportunities this month and connect with those who share your vision—your hard work will not go unnoticed by those around you!

Leo: Expect your natural charisma and confidence to skyrocket for these more challenging conversations coming up. Whether it’s a decision, an agreement, or a revelation, expect your thirst for adventure to take centre stage and push you into action even if it means letting go of those who don't align with your aims.

Virgo: This month is about spiritual work, vulnerability, and communication. Transparency in your long-term goals is the key to your spiritual enlightenment, and the universe will provide you with new opportunities to explore, learn, travel, and foster this growth.

Libra: Expect progress when you finally come face-to-face with tough decisions in the manifestation of a harmonious new chapter of confidence and balance within your daily life. You'll uncover the habits that self-sabotage your growth, allowing hurdles in work, health, and daily routines to come to an end.

Scorpio: Closure happens when you release the emotional baggage you cling to, Scorpios, so continue to meditate and journal to clear your head. Your artistic inspiration and willpower will aid in navigating the creative blocks in your path, as well as refining your organisation, well-being, and daily routines.

Sagittarius: Take this time to explore your ancestral history and spend time with friends. Collaboration can help highlight those who genuinely support your vision, and doing so will also anchor you in your purpose. As a result, you will be rewarded with a new burst of creative energy, a turning point in goals, and maybe even a few new friends.

Capricorn: A burst of clarity and reassessment of your endeavours will help clear the mental fog and revive any stalled plans. In this time of transformation, practice smoother communication and acceptance regarding your home, family, and self-esteem.

Aquarius: This chapter will deepen your connections and foster progress in your goals. If a vision you've been working on has been stalled due to doubts in the back of your mind, don't hesitate to power up your voice and prioritise your organisation. You'll experience that eureka moment for truth and stabilisation.

Pisces: Your self-worth and self-esteem will skyrocket, and a turning point will encourage you to pursue what truly matters. Your life will flow positively as you face your fears to restore a sense of inner harmony in your journey.

Yours truly,
The North Star


U-Name It, Unique It
By Aly Salinger

March celebrated Unique Names Day, which prompted Headliner staff to take a closer look into the differing monikers that can be found at Hogwarts and other magical schools. While there are plenty of ace, strange, or somewhere-in-between never-before-seen epithets amongst those in the wizarding educational system, our research discovered an even more interesting category of designations: pet names!

It turns out that giving wix access to unrestricted animal name-endowing is perhaps not the best idea. The randomly surveyed 500 persons’ pet names range from the tame to the eccentric, and we’ve brought you a breakdown of these names – as well as a selection of the most entertaining of the bunch.

To the right we have compiled some Muggle contraptions known as “pie graphics” to showcase the analysis of pet types at Hogwarts. Over 50% of surveyed persons are petless, leaving only 204 animal companions whose names we could examine; the most popular of those pets was the noble cat, with a total of 93. Owls came in second place with 35 – using the school owls to send one’s mail must have become more popular – and such the numbers dwindled until the humble frog, of which there was only 1 out of 500. A rare pet indeed!

Examining 204 different monikers was indeed a challenge! We sorted them into categories to discover the most popular “type” of pet name, represented in the chart on the left. Luckily, the most popular classification of labels was found to be “human-esque” names – such as Casey, Edgar, or Marcus – with a total of 66. Names that are more common for pets than for humans followed in second place with a total of 27 (think Buddy, Rusty, and Buttons). After that, however, the list of designations devolved into… more bizarre options. See for yourself:

Muggle things: 12.7%
Professor Galim can be proud that her students have such a curious interest in Muggle culture! From a cat named Kim Kardashian (an apparent Muggle celebrity) to a pygmy puff named Pixel (a Muggle technological term), this is the most popular “oddball” category. Perhaps the best in this category is Siobhan McCarty’s cat Toaster, whose full name is Toaster Oven on High. We asked McCarty about the inspiration behind this unique appellation: “I named my kitten Toaster because I wanted something of home to remind me of where I come from,” she explained. “Being a Muggle-born is an important part of my life.” So sweet!

Greek mythology: 9.8%
Mythology in and of itself was definitely a popular name type, with names ranging across various cultures, from Incan to Irish. However, Greek labels dominated this category – whether gods like Boreas or Demeter, or their enemies such as Prometheus or Medusa, this is certainly a genre in demand!

Words in other languages: 6.9%
You may not know how to pronounce these, but the owners of the pets named for words in foreign languages certainly do! Try to guess the significance of Fílos (spider), Jeger (cat), or Kibō (snake).

Miscellaneous: 5.4%
Some names are just so anomalous that they simply can’t be sorted – think of them as pet-name Hatstalls. The best of these is, of course, a spider named Sir Silly Puffy Jumper. Try to categorise that!

Foods: 4.9%
Pets are friends, not food – unless they’re both, apparently. (Disclaimer: DO NOT EAT YOUR PETS!) From Salami to Caviar, there’s no shortage of digestible denominations amongst the data. However, this author’s two favourites were Frosted Flakes and Pringle. Originally in the “miscellaneous” tab, some resourceful Muggle-borns pointed out that these are technically Muggle brands of food! We hope that the actual foods are more delicious than it would be to lick a cat or spider. (Again: PLEASE DO NOT DO THAT.)

Other animals: 3.9%
“Why, Headliner, it’s normal to name your animal its own name when you’re too young to know otherwise.” No – these are animals that have been named after a different breed or species altogether, such as an owl named Kitty or a cat named Kangaroo.

Weather phenomena: 2.9%
Not terribly common nor terribly strange, but running into an owl named Mist or Lightning the ferret may throw you off for a moment!

Plants: 2.9%
Of course, there are the fairly normal Daisie (bunny) and Poppy (ferret), but have you ever met a snake named Fleur-de-lys? Not quite so typical!

Space objects: 1.5%
A small category, but this Astronomy fan’s favourite, particularly due to a cat by the name of Asteroid.

Keep these categories in mind next time you’re naming a pet – or don’t and create a new one! Just remember that your poor pet has to live with that name for the rest of its life…


Wizarding Product Reviews: The Hufflepuff Way
By Simon Kincaid

Welcome to Wizarding Product Reviews: The Hufflepuff Way! With each edition, I’ll find a friend, and together, we’ll review a product from the wizarding world.

This month’s product:

Product: a pint of Butterbeer
Description: Drink in memory of Odo
Where to Purchase: Hogsmeade, Three Broomsticks
Price: 9 Sickles, 13 Knuts

Current Review Committee Members: Simon Kincaid & random Hogwarts student

When Hogsmeade opens its doors to the older student population of Hogwarts, I find myself visiting frequently. How lucky are we at Hogwarts to have a wizarding village as our next-door neighbour? I didn’t fully understand how rare that was until I visited Beauxbatons. All you could see were the Pyrenees, stretching mile after mile. A beautiful sight, but you’ll find no magical stores or taverns.

Hogsmeade is a place to go to get wizarding essentials, to get wizarding oddities, to socialize with your friends, and to have a well-deserved break from all the academic expectations of school. It can be a place to purchase a bottle of cold refreshing Butterbeer, how refreshing!

I visited the Three Broomsticks to find my partner for the current review committee and slipped into a booth across from a young boy who seemed a bit startled, glaring at me with big blue eyes. I greeted him, introduced myself, and asked his name. I got no response.

At first, I thought this had something to do with my being a dhampir and began to explain. “I’m harmless. Really.” He remained silent. “Right now, I’m just Simon with the Hogwarts Headliner, in need of a current committee member to review some Butterbeer. Could I purchase some for you?” The boy blinked.

“Aren’t you a…” And I waited for it, hoping that he wasn’t going to say something along the lines of monster or vampire, but he finished “...prefect?” His voice trembled.

“Was. Right now, I’m just Simon … in need of a current committee member to review some Butterbeer. Could I purchase some for you? We can try it together and we’ll both give our honest reviews on them, both hot and cold,” I said.

“Sure,” he said.

He never gave me his name nor house, but I’m sure he was no more than a second year. But he agreed to give a review.

Upon asking, I was told that both the hot and cold versions of Butterbeer were made with butterscotch, sugar, and water, with a small alcohol content, and possibly Sugar Shrub: Mallowsweet and Moondew.

First, we tried the cold. The bottle bubbled a little when opened and you could smell the sweetness. “Here’s to the women who love us,” I said and tilted my glass his way. The boy looked to me, to his bottle, and then back to me. “My mum loves me,” he said, clinking our bottles together.

We both threw back the drink, drinking at least half the bottle. Nothing was said as I thought of the immediate taste. I found it thick and alarmingly sweet. The boy finished his off, even licking the side of his bottle to capture every last drop. I could tell our thoughts on the beverage conflicted.

Next, the waitress brought over two mugs of steaming hot Butterbeer. I could already smell the butterscotch from it, but it seemed more relaxed. I lifted up the mug and slowly, carefully, extended it out. “Uhh,” I paused to think of a toast for this one. “I wish you health, wealth, and happiness. May you find sweet peace of mind, wherever you may roam.”

The boy looked at me curiously. “It’s one of those Irish Blessings. You don’t grow up in the heart of London and not hear an Irish Blessing or two,” I said to him, and he nodded before gently tapping just the rim of his drink to mine and we took a drink.

This time the flavours were less stark and melted together. Friends, I’ll have a hot Butterbeer any day over its bottled counterpart. The boy across from me? Well, he took another sip after his initial one but set it down, not fond of this.

I paid for the drinks and we parted ways. He could finally breathe again, knowing there was no detention slip involved. Hogsmeade is a great place for the older student population of Hogwarts. The younger? If you’re going to sneak your way in, just know that the deer in the headlights look will give you away.

But whatever you do, Hogwarts, remember: be kind to one another.

COLD BOTTLED BUTTERBEER
Simon’s review: 2/5
Random boy’s review: 5/5

WARM BUTTERBEER IN A MUG
Simon’s review: 4/5
Random boy’s review: 1/5


The Art of Manifestation
By Alyssea Brown

Most Muggle or half-blood students will already be familiar with the concept of manifestation. Manifestation is a mostly Muggle concept; in the wizarding world, we know conjuration best, the branch of Transfiguration where you can seemingly create an object from thin air. However, if you’ve been paying attention in Transfiguration, you’ll know that nothing can ever be made from thin air, only moved from one place to another.

So, if manifestation isn’t conjuring your desires before you, what is it? And how is it different from conjuration?

Manifestation is a state of mind. Remember that. The word ‘manifest’ comes from the Latin word manifestus, meaning ‘plainly apprehensible by the mind’. Manifestation is often linked to the Law of Attraction, the idea that positive thoughts can bring positive outcomes and vice versa for negative thoughts.

“Whether you think you can or you can’t, either way, you are right.” — Henry Ford

So, you’ve got an idea in your head. Maybe you want to pass your exams with O’s and E’s. Maybe you want to get on that sports team soon. Maybe you want an item, like the camo cloak or fake slip.

Guess what? You can manifest it. Here’s how.

People have different ways of manifesting and there’s not a cookie-cutter right way of doing it. Some methods include:

• writing it down repeatedly, say three times, in a statement that suggests you have already achieved it (e.g I always get good grades) — this is the most common method of manifestation
• writing a letter to the universe — similar to repeatedly writing it down, write your wants as if you already have it. I’ve heard of people manifesting their lover just by writing a love story, so it definitely works
• making mood boards — get yourself a notebook or a corkboard and paste in images of what you want to manifest. Muggles, you know Pinterest? Use that. It’s an easy way to visualize what you want to manifest
• listening to subliminal audios — by listening to these audios, it can subconsciously alter your state of mind. It’s a relatively new method, so who knows how it works?

However, your manifestations won’t come true if you just sit there and wait for it to happen. Sorry to burst your bubble, but manifesting isn’t like making a wish. You’ve actually got to put in some work.

Manifesting good grades? Remember to study, too. Manifesting a position on a sports team? Remember to train and practice. Manifesting an item? Remember to collect your daily scholarship and earn some cash.

“You have to really believe not only in yourself; you have to believe the world is worth your sacrifices.” — Zaha Hadid

Again, manifestation is a state of mind, so the important part is believing it can happen.

Mindset can make working towards your goals easier just by being positive. If you hate a subject, you’re going to hate studying for it. If you hate playing sports, time will drag. We can avoid what we dislike, but sometimes, it’s not possible. So, your positive mindset is going to make up for what feels like an eternity trying to get through it. In fact, you might not even realize it’s over until it’s over.

If you’re about to manifest your desires, I wish you all the best. Remember, believe you can and it will be yours.


The Easter Bunny: Muggle Creation or Magical Creature
By Matthew Campbell

A fanciful children’s myth intended to bring simple joy and chocolate delicacies, or a magical menace left uncaptured by the Auror departments of the wizarding world? This spring equinox has this author questioning the legitimacy of the so called ‘Easter Bunny’, whatever or whomever they might be. For those of you who are not already familiar with this mythical being, this hare is a cocoa-loving creature who adorns Easter celebrators with chocolate eggs every year, like Santa but furrier.

In the Muggle world, those without magic are fascinated by what we call fairytales, typically defined as a short story of folklore and fiction. Yet, in traversing both worlds, I have come to discover that many of these fantastical creatures we grow up believing to be figments of imagination are, in fact, very much a reality in the wizarding world. Leprechauns, merpeople and dragons all have a place in our Muggle culture and thus poses the question, why not the bunny. After all, a magical rabbit going around laying chocolate and colourful eggs is no less believable than the thieving, shiny-obsessed Nifflers.

Originally thought to be inspired by tales of the goddess Eostre or Ostara from West German Folklore, the rabbit became associated with Easter. With rabbits’ high fertility representing the rebirth of spring from winter, these cute fluff balls became associated with the holiday as early as the 1500s. The Osterhase first appeared in Germany but quickly spread across Europe and into America, bringing a tradition of eggs that survives to this very day. Though the names and specifics have changed, the tradition remains alive over 400 years after its birth. As no ordinary magical creature could have such a lifespan, having found no evidence to suggest any additional Easter bunnies leads me to believe that our hare is in fact no creature, magical or otherwise.

Then faced with the possibility that this creature is no creature at all, I deviated to think it some kind of wizarding tradition. With incredible talents such as the animagus process, who is to say that the Easter Bunny was not a particularly devious wizard playing a harmless prank on the Muggle world. Could the creature whose influence is widespread in the western world be less celestial mythology and more a simple act of trickery? So much of the Muggle world is blindly unaware of the influence its magical counterpart has had on its culture and history that I, for one, would not be surprised. However, it still doesn’t answer the question of whom or what, or perhaps even more intriguing now, why. We can conspire about trickery, but perhaps the true story was a tale of gifts for an amour or a wizardkind solution to an egg famine.

Unfortunately, despite multiple owl attempts, I was not able to contact the Ministry for comment on this issue, but rest assured, my fellow mythbusters; I intend to get to the bottom of this conspiracy. The only question that remains unasked, then, is just how deep this all goes. This Muggleborn is certainly intrigued to find out which other ‘fictional’ bedtime stories could be nothing more than wizarding cover-ups—the Tooth Fairy, Krampus or even the Sandman himself? While we may not have the answers, I find the true joy in the questioning, like the poet Rilke said: “Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves”.

Until next time,
Campbell


Magical & Muggle Meals: Butterfly Pie
By Aly Salinger

Mmm, Butterfly Pie! A staple amongst giant and part-giant communities, this crusty treat is filled with all kinds of butterflies: monarch, blue morpho, swallowtail, zebra longwing…

April Fool’s! We jest, we jest. In fact, a Butterfly Pie is known to be common amongst the dinners of those with giant blood, but it doesn’t actually contain any bugs. Instead, the word “butterfly” in Butterfly Pie is actually a portmanteau of the words “butter” and “fly” since that’s what this pie has in it: butter and a flying creature!

Though this dish may be accompanied by some raised eyebrows at your dinner table, it’s always best to branch out and try recipes from other cultures – in this case, giant food! (And no, it’s normally-sized according to this recipe.) Let’s take a look…

Butterfly Pie
Serves: 8 people, 3-4 half-giants, or 1 giant
Time: 90 minutes
Ingredients:
Pie dough, cooled (*refrigerated)**
1 pound of skinless, boneless Swooping Evil meat***
⅓ cup butter
⅓ cup chopped Pungous Onion (*yellow onion)
⅓ cup chopped celery
⅓ cup Wizarding Wheat Self-Charmed Flour (*all-purpose flour)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 bouillon cube
1 cup + 1 tablespoon dragon milk (*cow milk)
1 Swooping Evil egg (*chicken egg)
Gillywater (*still water)
9-inch pie pan or similar alternative

*Muggle alternative.
**You will need enough to line the edges and bottom of the pie pan you are using, as well as cover the top. If you have access to house-elves or a Muggle supermarket, asking or purchasing is the quickest way to acquire dough, or you can make it yourself with another recipe.
***You may also substitute this with the meat of flying seahorses, dragons, or occamies, with varying results.

Directions:
Preheat oven to 220° Celsius.
Season Swooping Evil meat with salt and pepper, then add it to a large cauldron (*saucepan) and cover it entirely with water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the meat is cooked through (do not overcook it!), then remove from the water and allow to cool. Keep the water nearby and chop or shred cooked Swooping Evil meat.
In a new cauldron, over a medium-low flame, cook butter, onion, and celery until soft. Add flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and the boullion cube. Combine, stirring clockwise only.
Slowly stir in 1¾ cups of the cooking water as well as 1 cup milk, then simmer until the mixture has thickened.
Add chopped/shredded Swooping Evil meat and combine; taste and add further seasonings as desired, then remove from heat and allow to cool.
Lightly sprinkle extra flour over a hard surface such as a counter and add cooled pie dough, rolling until about ⅛ inch thick; cover bottom and sides of pie pan.
Add cooled Swooping Evil mixture and cover with rolled-out pie crust top. Crimp the edges together with a fork or the tip of your wand.
Whisk remaining tablespoon milk with egg and brush thinly over the crust top, then place the pie in the preheated oven to bake for about 45 minutes until bubbling and the same colour as a Bertie Bott’s earwax-flavoured bean (golden-brown).
Cool for a minimum of 15 minutes before serving; cut and enjoy!

April Fool’s again! Please do not eat Swooping Evils. Their venom is extremely toxic to humans and may cause consumers to lose their minds. However, if you think this recipe sounds delicious, you can replace the Swooping Evil meat with chicken breasts and add some frozen chopped vegetables in step 3 to make a non-toxic version. Enjoy your Butterfly Pie responsibly!


Words Have Power
By Alyssea Brown

Words have power.

Don't believe me? Well, consider this: think of your favourite song. Got one? Great. Now think of a line in that song that has changed your life.

Words are the root of society, and everything we do wouldn’t exist without it. Instructions are still words, just put into orderly lists to follow. Lyrics are still words, only put to music. Quotes are still words, only taken out of their sources to be generalisable. Every word you've read in these Headliner issues has been picked with a specific purpose in mind, not just for the sake of filling pages.

With how much our life revolves around words, we should really be putting more thought into how we communicate.

So, what did you — or didn’t you — write to a friend, significant other, or mentor for the Valentine's letter errand? Most of the responses from the event were positive and, according to the professor who ran it, only one note had to be thrown out for being unkind. I had written compliments for a handful of my friends, and I received a nice note in return. But while each word was chosen with sincerity in mind, there was definitely a note that I wish I could take back.

Oftentimes we don't think of the impact our words have on us and to others. Even I forget that what I’m saying could impact me, and many times I have walked away from a conversation thinking, “maybe I shouldn't have said that”. We say the first thing that comes to mind. But despite how easily letters can be thrown away, forgotten, or thrown into a fire, people will always remember how the words on the page made them feel. There’s a saying that illustrates this point perfectly: “The axe forgets, but the tree remembers.” We forget that what we say can become a permanent stain on ourselves, how people perceive us, and how you perceive the world.

Certain words can easily change the meaning of a sentence. For example, ‘love’ and ‘hate’. They sit at opposite ends of the liking spectrum, meaning either use of words could indicate an extreme disposition towards a subject. If I said I ‘hated’ Flying class and ‘disliked’ Potions (sorry to the professors reading this!), then that would suggest I like Potions more than I like Flying. Another example is the debate between “sorry, I have a partner” versus “no, I have a partner”, ‘Sorry’ would suggest you would be interested in them if you didn’t already have a partner (red flag!), whereas ‘no’ suggests you’re not interested regardless of the circumstances. Of course, that is just one interpretation of the debate, and there are many other ways this whole ‘sorry’ versus ‘no’ could be taken.

Let’s think back to the notes we wrote during the Valentine’s errand, if you did it. To the person whose note had to be thrown out because it was unkind, let it be a lesson for us all.

Before you say something, whether it is verbal or written, THINK it through:

T - is it true?
H - is it helpful?
I - is it inspiring?
N - is it necessary?
K - is it kind?


Defeating Dementors #1: Introduction
By Serena Towers

- EDITOR'S NOTE -
These articles were found as we partook in the tradition of spring cleaning, and we thought it prudent to share with the populace of Hogwarts students.

Dementors are known to be creatures that drain us of our happiness and joy. They are foul creatures associated with despair. They literally suck away people’s happiness unless they are defeated. And, from my experience, happiness is an emotion that many of us want in our lives but sometimes, we find it eludes us.

Classwork is too hard, Hogwarts is constantly under attack, our friends turn out to be lying backstabbers… Whatever it is that drives our happiness away, there are many many books and researches on the concept of happiness and how to make life happier.

So welcome to this brand new column - where we discuss ways to remove the things that bring unhappiness into our lives and do actions that can bring happiness to us instead.

In the past, I have written some articles showcasing ways we can do more self-care. In a similar way, I wanted to discuss happiness and ways we can actively seek it, inviting it into our lives. Together, we will seek the sunshine - much like catching that golden snitch. So, sunshine seekers, let us work on ways to defeat our dementors.

Now I will start by saying this: everyone’s journey and situation is different and sometimes, there may be things that prevent you from being happy or - in that situation - make you unhappy. This is not a fix for everything but, perhaps, it will help make you smile a little. It is OK not to be OK, and feeling other emotions is perfectly normal. However, I have recently been researching what makes different people happy and I thought that every so often, I would share some of those methods with you with real, achievable things that you could do or think about that may bring some happiness to your life. These are things you can try and do until the next column.

I am, by no means, an expert. I am a seventeen-year-old Hufflepuff with very little experience in the matter. However, I almost died in my first year and I never thought I would make it to where I am - but I did make it to my seventh year, and throughout the years, I have trialled some of these strategies, and I am slowly finding things that work for me - and things that don’t. I want to share these with you.

It is also important to note that what works for you today might not work for you in a few months. What works then might not work for you right now. What I have found are some small real-life actions that you can take right now to make little differences in your life. They work for me sometimes and I wanted to share them, hoping they might work for you too.

Say this out loud. Don’t sit there silently reading this. Say it loudly and proudly:

Let’s make the world a happier place. Together.
We can defeat our dementors. For we are Sunshine Seekers.


Now before we continue, I want to issue you a challenge. Before you read Defeating Dementors #2, take a few minutes to think about what makes you happy. Is there anything you enjoy doing? People whom you like spending time with? Moments that make you smile? When was the last time you smiled and why? Have you made anyone else smile recently? Write them down. Write down what - or who - makes you happy, so you can reflect on it in the future.

For now, this is Serena J. Towers, over and out.


Defeating Dementors #2: Doing Good for Others
By Serena Towers

There is a lot of research into how doing something good for other people can help you feel good. This is one of the benefits of volunteering in the local community, being kind to people or donating money to charity - the feel-good factor. This is a bonus because you’re also making others happy as a result of this action - as well as yourself - and allows you to feel more connected to people in general. However, doing good is not limited to volunteering or finances. It was possible to spread kindness and joy in any capacity.

These actions of kindness and love do not need to be large. They do not need to take up most of your time or require you to give up a significant portion of your finances. Even doing small acts can make a huge difference. Just smiling at people can make a difference in someone’s happiness!

When was the last time you did something nice for someone else? How did it make you feel? Here are a few ideas that you could do right now to help do something for others:
1. Offer to help someone
2. Give someone a sincere compliment
3. Reach out to someone you know who has been struggling recently - have a chat with them or offer your help, show that you care
4. Ask a friend how they are and listen to them without judgement
5. Offer directions to someone who seems lost (this applies well if you see any first years, especially at the start of the year or third years looking for their new classes!)
6. Share a skill that you have with someone
7. Make someone smile
8. Do a random act of kindness
9. Pick up litter on the Grounds or by the Great Lake
10. Sit with someone who seems lonely in the Great Hall
11. Send a letter to someone telling them how much they mean to you
12. Leave random notes to strangers with positive messages
13. Share your Honeydukes candy with people
14. Forgive someone for what they’ve done
15. Offer to help carry someone’s heavy school bag
Try at least one of these every month until the next Headliner issue and see how you feel - and how it feels to help others! Does bringing a smile to their face make you happy? Does knowing you have done something good for the school, your friends, the environment or a random stranger make you feel better - even if it was anonymously done? If you have any other ideas and actions where you’re giving your time, energy and love for others then feel free to try those instead!

Until next time, my Sunshine Seekers, go defeat your dementors.

Serena J. Towers, over and out.

May Day: the Dawning of Summer
By Archer Duncan

As the months change and the calendar rolls around to the 1st of May, we welcome a holiday closely knit to nature and the wonders of living. Marking the beginning of summer, May Day is a festival honouring fertility and new life for the incoming season. Commonly seen throughout Europe and even beyond in North America, it is widely celebrated in the Western World.

First a pagan festival, the holiday has a long history stemming from ancient civilisations. Earliest remnants of May Day traces its roots back to the Roman Republic, where it was depicted as social events frolicking with woodland spirits, honouring deities from their mythology. Evolving in the middle ages into Walpurgis night for Germanic cultures and Beltaine for Celtic ones, it was soon adapted into festivals centred around fire, symbolic to protection of livestock and crops. In the Victorian era, it became repurposed to devote the holiday to the Christian Virgin Mary. It is no longer a religious holiday for everyone who celebrates, but many of its traditions have still withstood the test of time.

Today, Britain most notably celebrates May Day with a May Fair, which might feature dancing, music, other entertainment, and food. It is centred around the crowning of a May Queen, a girl in a traditional white gown, a symbol of purity, and a tiara, who would lead the parade before giving a speech that sets off the other celebrations. Alfred Tennyson, famous Victorian poet, has written a poem specifically on this special “queen”.

There is no tradition that represents the holiday as much as the iconic Maypole dance. A folk dance performed around a wooden pole garlanded with flowers and greenery, the participants would spin around it while holding onto colourful ribbons. Often, the dancers are children or adolescents dressed in white. As they make their way around the pole, the ribbons are meant to weave together showing unity, each colour holding a special meaning, such as love, fertility, and prosperity.

Some of these age-old traditions, however, may not be the most convenient for our student body. A large pole, after all, could not just be erected in your dormitory at the snap of your fingers. Therefore, I have compiled some ideas I deem both faithful to the holiday’s meaning and accessible.

1. Craft a Floral Wreath — one of Hogwarts’ obvious advantages is its closeness to nature. Herbology greenhouses at your backyard and not even to mention the mountains and forests bordering our campus, flowers, grass, and leaves for your crown are at your fingertips. Weave them together in the comfort of your dorm room or nestled against a tree trunk by the lake, wear your creation with pride and add a sprinkle of wildlife to your daily attire.
2. Bring in the May — customise your living quarters with a touch of Mother Earth by following this tradition of collecting sprigs, flowers, branches, leaves, and any other natural decorations and arranging them into a jar. While our curfew rules disagree, the original practice calls for them to be brought back at sunrise. Not only have our calendars brought us the new month, you could also bring the very incarnation of it into your home.
3. Go Outdoors Barefoot — historically, May Day is when children ditch their shoes for the first time in the year, weather finally warm enough to at least scamper around without the usual winter boots Scotland calls for. Try to experience this for yourself, not just in your dormitory of course, but feel the grass without footwear beneath you, feel the dew and the dirt, and perhaps, if you are feeling daring, even wade into water. For once, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn from our very own barefoot editor, Colin McCoire!
4. Make a May Day Basket — dating back to pagan rituals in 12th century Germany, this ritual have been mentioned less since the 20th century, yet is still a meaningful one nevertheless. While you may use an already-made basket, you can also roll a piece of sturdy parchment into a cone for more authenticity. Then, ribbons or strings can be used to make a handle by weaving them together — just make sure they’re strong enough. Then, fill them with fresh flowers and hang them onto the doorknob of your recipient. To heed with the nature of our mostly shared dormitories, I would suggest writing a note and while you’re at it, maybe even try your hand at some nature-inspired poetry!

There are many more ways you can celebrate this holiday steeped in history and tradition, but no matter which one you choose, the 1st of May is a perfect time to step out into nature, enjoy a season of change as we head into summer, and appreciate the world around us.


Spring: A Time For Change
By Matthew Campbell

Spring: A Time For Change
When winter first blends into spring, we watch as the cold and lifeless begins a new cycle, a seasonal rebirth. Yet what will come from that new life can never be known, only experienced. Even the greatest seers of our generation can’t know every facet of what faces us in the future, there will always be variables that cannot be foreseen and choices that will define the very fabric of fate itself. When I left behind the cold shackles of winter this year, I intended to look upon spring with fresh eyes and an open heart, but what came was unimaginable.

This season has taught me many things, dear readers, and while not all of them have been blessed with a positive glow, learning is always a most important step within our lives. Without learning one cannot understand the errors we have made and correct them; I myself have made my fair share of mistakes and for that I am apologetic but as long as we continue to grow we are not defined by these moments. No, instead, we can harness them in order to better reflect a version of ourselves we wish to be, refined by the lessons we’ve learned.

Spring is a time for rebirth, for change, for a new perspective. So as we now leave spring behind, I would ask you all to think of the lessons that we have learned from it. With each season comes a new cycle, a new chance to be a better version of yourself. Change is not a singular choice but a non-linear progression throughout your life; there will be times where you falter and repeat a lesson you once thought mastered and times you skip ahead, reinforced by your new-found wisdom.

“You can cut all the flowers but you cannot keep Spring from coming.”
― Pablo Neruda

With summer just around the corner, I implore you all to make the most of every minute of it. Let the warm summer air bask you in radiant light and wash away any remnants of the cold that spring couldn’t reach. Take every second and cherish it. Make memories with those you love, and leave behind all that no longer serves you. The cycle of the seasons teaches us that all life is important and that even when the winter feels long, and the crops and leaves grow dead, every time, the green will reemerge and life will filter in once more. We are all just cogs in the grand machine of nature and in time all things will pass; we are all equally capable of change and equally deserving of forgiveness. So if you, like myself, dear reader, have been struggling to let go of the things that haunt you, let spring be your reminder that all things come full circle and while at times they may seem bleak and frosty, the sun is just around the corner waiting to shine upon you.


Global Love Day
By Simon Kincaid

Did you know there is a day dedicated to worldwide love? Every year on the first of May, Global Love Day aims to unite humanity with the power of love. It is a vision to unify us all in a celebration of love and compassion—a call to all people to gather together in the wisdom of peace and love, and to foster unity within their communities.

It is a grand concept, but it is initiated quite simply: “Love begins with me.”

Real love starts within ourselves. To love ourselves, we need to see ourselves kindly, treat ourselves considerately, do the things that resonate in our hearts, and feed our souls. This can mean nourishing ourselves with good food, making healthy choices, or even maintaining good friendships. Afterwards, we can expand our knowledge and learn about how diversity makes the world a better place. In other words, before we can truly spread love outward, we need to feel it and live it inside. Then, we can expand that love to others, and the choices that we make in our daily lives.

Much of our time here at Hogwarts is occupied by classes, coursework, studying or writing essays. However, we must find the time to let the love within our hearts be the focus throughout our days. Some suggestions to find this deeper connection yourself would be to take a walk, to contemplate what you are currently grateful for in your life, and to let go of your fears and doubts. You can make some art, write a poem, or learn something new. Allow yourself to begin to grow into the best version of the person you are.

Then, take that best version of yourself and share it with the world. Make friends, make amends, help others, and show kindness.

Perhaps you would like to celebrate this Global Love Day by performing random acts of kindness throughout the day or by offering to help someone in need. Maybe you’ll do your best to express gratitude for those who bring love and joy into your world, or you could spread messages of love or encouragement to brighten someone’s day.

Whatever it is, take some time for love—let’s spread kindness and compassion to every corner of the world. Together, we can make a difference! It’s a simple yet powerful idea. Global Love Day is about creating a culture of love that transcends time, and invites us to be ambassadors of peace, starting from within and radiating outward. In a world that could always use more love, we carry within us the greatest gift we can offer—our hearts.


International Relations
By Matthew Campbell

The wider wizarding world is a place of fascination beginning to open up to us all with the introduction of international events, like the Beauxbâtons trip in February. I decided that we’d better accustom ourselves with those rallying for these changes. I had the unique experience of speaking with Director of Studies Aulis Vorozheykin and Headmistress Célestine de la Croix-Valmer, getting to know our neighbours across the pond and experiencing Hogwarts life through their eyes. Both headmasters found themselves promoted from teaching roles to leadership following the tragic events in Hogsmeade last fall. While headmistress Croix-Valmer took the position out of reverence and duty, Koldovstoretz’s Director of Studies, as he so aptly corrected me when referred to as headmaster, definitively claims he’d foreseen his position in a vision.

While some would describe the archaic heritage of our prestigious school as nothing short of an artistic masterpiece, it seems that our esteemed guests were not quite as impressed. Vorozheykin described the hallowed halls with little pleasure: ”For my first time at the castle, I must admit it is a bit older than I would have expected. Is there no upkeep done? Who cleans the stones that they have such dirt upon them always?” A sure insult to caretaker Weems! The French headmistress was more reminiscent, wishing to have seen the place in its prime before the war.

Then, my next question: What one thing from Hogwarts do you wish you could take back with you?

A vain creature, the director couldn’t summon a compliment for Hogwarts itself: “May I select the fashions shop from the village? I would so love to have a house of couture readily available to me at school. If I must choose something from the castle, I suppose I will select the ceiling of enchantment. My pupils have expressed their love for it to me.”

More diplomatically, Headmistress Croix-Valmer appreciated our diversity, something only recently popular worldwide: “I love how easy it seems to be a special race or have a special talent here. It seems to be more welcome in the school, something I didn't have.”

In contrast, they had only praise for their schools, allowing an insight into establishments that have long been mysterious. When asked for his favourite aspects, Vorozheykin couldn’t have beamed more proudly in his descriptions: “I particularly enjoy that our students are able to choose the specialty that calls to them. We also honour our dead in a very special way, with ever-growing trees on campus that will never be turned into the trunks that we use to fly.”

Croix-Valmer was as enchanted as all of us by the elegance of Beauxbâtons we witnessed in February. She added, “I really love the gardens. And if we are talking about lessons, I adore that the school offers arts as part of their curriculum.”

Teasing about the school's future, Vorozheykin noted, “Upon returning to our Koldovstoretz, one of the goals I have for my pupils is to challenge them to clean out the caverns that rest beneath the lake of our glorious conservatory. The many dangers — nay, I did not say dangers, I said wonders and treasures that lay underneath are simply waiting to be discovered by the brave students I have taught.”

Concluding the interviews, I wished to pay homage to the fallen we lost in the cruel, senseless, violence six months ago. With the knowledge that Vorozheykin and Croix-Valmer were so intimately affected by the tragedy, I wanted to conclude by asking them if they had any words for those that came before in a reverent moment that I believe portrayed the true character of this incredible pair. “Lady Pavlova was a wonderful mentor to me and I have none of the doubts that she would be quite proud of the direction that our Koldovstoretz will take under my leadership. I should love to tell her that she has naught to worry about, but I know that if she were a ghost she would not be worried. But we do not have ghosts at Koldovstoretz, because she does not have unfinished business and therefore did not need to stick around to keep the eye upon us.”

A most beautiful personal sentiment reinforced further by the French headmistress reminding us that they will be forever immortalised in our hearts: “I can't believe it's been 6 months since the tragedy that took away the previous headmaster and 13 students. If I could go back in time, perhaps I would insist on choosing a different date, transportation, place of landing. Or for them to not stay while we went to the shops. But the past can't be changed, so the only thing I can say is that I hope they didn't suffer too much. They were loved, and they are still remembered.”


Meet the Professors #3: Desislava Nenovsky
By Archer Duncan

Meet the Professors (#3): Desislava Nenovsky
Seeing Hogwarts is welcoming a new batch of professors in a variety of subjects, I have decided to meet with our new Divination professor, Desislava Nenovksy and ask her a few questions on both this mysterious subject and herself.

Professor Nenovsky hails from Bulgaria and has received her education in Koldovstoretz and the Isle of Divination itself, Tenūsa. Despite her young age, she was born a Seer, granting her a natural affinity and supporting her interest in the subject. Having just begun her career at Hogwarts, I was lucky to catch her between the hassles of settling in and customising her classroom, and below is my transcription of what she had to say.

What brings you to Hogwarts as a professor?

I have come to Hogwarts to impart my knowledge of the art of Divination on the upcoming generations of witches and wizards. Divination is a very diverse subject and to teach as many variations as we can means it continues to remain a part of Wizarding History.

How does Hogwarts differ from the places you’ve lived before?

I currently live on the island of MoOrea in the summertime when school is out. It is an island in French Polynesia. Hogwarts reminds me of my home in Bulgaria with the winters and it is very familiar and comfortable to me. It is a gorgeous castle, and full of history.

What sparked your interest in divination?

I am a Seer, it is quite literally what my purpose is. Though had I not emerged as a Seer, I would have picked up an interest in it anyway. It is vast and fearless- it is wondrous and just as deep as my beloved oceans.

What is your favourite method of divination?

I specialise in Hydromancy and Scrying which are two methods I use while on the water. While I am in the classroom, I find that scrying is the best method for me to retain my connection to the water.

Divination is sometimes displayed as frivolous and not taken seriously; what are your thoughts on this negative stereotype?

You cannot force people to accept what they cannot understand. The third eye and inner sight does exist but seldom are able to successfully accomplish the ability to See. I am hopeful that my tenure here will bring about a wondrous new crop of those who believe and rely on the Sight for guidance.

What is something those taking or thinking to take your course should know?

I do not mean to discourage- but work must be put into this course to understand what it is the Sight is telling you. I will not accept those who will sit and moan about not being able to see. If you are clouding your own mind there is not much I can help you accomplish. I am hopeful that I will be able to train any newly pronounced Seer in some of the other ways of divination.

This concludes our introduction to one of Hogwarts’ newest professors and her thoughts on the subject. For those already devote their hours to the course or are planning to find themselves hunched over a crystal ball next year, keep in mind Professor Nenovsky’s valuable advice. I think it is an admirable outlook that can be applied to not just our classwork, but life as well. We can never achieve if we always block our own path.

Stay tuned for the next issue, where we will be meeting a brand new professor. Take care readers, and make sure to give our newcomers a warm welcome!


Muggle and Wizarding Bands: The Main Similarities and Differences
By Violeta Roux

According to the Oxford’s Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, a band is “a small group of musicians who play popular music together, often with a singer or singers.” Bands have been around since the 15th century, starting off in Germany. Nowadays, we see bands everywhere.

Many witches or wizards who want to become professional musicians leave the wizarding world to do so, because of a lack of success or struggles with controversy. Nevertheless, there are quite a few interesting wizarding bands.

The most popular of these is probably the Weird Sisters, which was formed between 1986 and 1987 by Myron Wagtail, Kirley Duke and Orsino Thruston. Despite the band name, all founders and members are male. The Weird Sisters is definitely one of my most loved bands in the wizarding world.

My favourite wizarding band, though, would be the all-witch band Spellbound. I have been listening to Spellbound’s music since I was young, and I have always loved them. While they are known for many tragic scandals, their music is simply my favourite.

In contrast to the wizarding world, there are many Muggle bands. Even though a lot of them don’t skyrocket into fame, many groups have gotten larger thanks to Muggle social media. I believe this is an amazing thing, because music is of immense importance to everyone.

Bands like Queen, The Police and Nirvana were extremely popular in the 80s and 90s. Bands were especially popular during those eras, though there still exists a large number of bands today.

Some of the most popular Muggle bands of the modern day are Coldplay, One Direction and BTS. While Coldplay and BTS are still performing together, One Direction has been broken up for a while now, its members continuing with solo careers. Coldplay, however, seems to have numbered days left together as a band.

If I am quite honest, these most popular groups do not even come close to my favourite Muggle bands. These are The Smiths, Nirvana and Led Zeppelin. I have not had much experience with these bands, as I have never really listened to a lot of Muggle music during my life, but after researching and listening to a large quantity of Muggle bands, I believe these three are my favourites.

Muggle and wizarding bands have quite a few differences, such as the quantity of bands and the variety of topics. They come from entirely different worlds, making their subjects vastly distinct. The musicians also often use different instruments. Muggle bands frequently use more modern ones, such as the electric guitar or the keyboard. Wizarding bands do use modern instruments, but also tend to use older ones like the bagpipes, the cello, the lute, and, of course, enchanted instruments. Stage effects typically used in wizarding bands’ concerts are also much more magical than for Muggles, featuring many spells and charms.

However, the two also have a lot in common. Their instruments are often similar, because both use modern instruments and the same band setups. Genres exist in both worlds, meaning both Muggle and Wizarding bands have different styles of music and songwriting. Both have fans and fandoms, and both create music for entertainment.

I am not trying to criticise Muggle or Wizarding bands, because the two should be appreciated for their unique traits. As someone who discovered Muggle bands just recently, I would like to praise them for their variety, their quantity and their originality. I would also like to commend wizarding bands, as they have been and will continue to be with me for my entire life. Both types of bands are magical in their own ways.


Wit Beyond Measure: A Reimagining of the Houses at Hogwarts
By Simon Kincaid

Oh, the Hogwarts houses: the brave, the cunning, the loyal, and the wise. Within Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, our houses become our home, and our housemates, family. But what else does this sorting system give us? Lots of room for jest and laughter!

To celebrate World Laughter Day on May fourth, I’d like to present you with some merriment surrounding beloved stereotypes of Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw. Let us reimagine our Hogwarts houses as something new!

If Hogwarts houses were breakfast foods, Gryffindor would be scrambled eggs with hot sauce: bold and ready to start the day with a burst of flavor. Slytherin would be steak and eggs: strong, filling, and indulgent; and Hufflepuff would be pancakes with maple syrup: comforting and sure to make you feel right at home. Ravenclaw would be avocado toast, nutritious and creative.

What if the houses of Hogwarts were pets? Gryffindor would be a German Shepherd: loyal, bold, and protective. They’re always down for an adventure or ready to chase a squirrel. Slytherin would be a cat: cunning, independent, and elegant. They’ll ignore you… until they decide not to. Hufflepuff would be a Golden Retriever: gentle, loving, and happiest when snuggling on the couch or making friends with every wizard who walks by. Ravenclaw would be an owl, wise and curious—perhaps judging your life choices from the top of a tree branch or a bookshelf.

What about vegetables? Gryffindor would be a chili pepper: bold, fiery, not afraid to stand out, and ready to bring the heat. Slytherin would be an artichoke: layered, full of surprises, and taking effort to get to the heart. Hufflepuff would be a potato: reliable, hearty, and beloved by all, making everyone feel at home; and Ravenclaw would be an eggplant: elegant and versatile, unappreciated by some, but beloved by those who know how to handle them.

What if we thought about what our houses would be as weather patterns? Gryffindor would be a thunderstorm: intense, dramatic, and never afraid to make an impact. Slytherin would be fog: mysterious and sneaky, capable of hiding secrets and intentions. Hufflepuff would be a gentle rain, soothing and steady, bringing a sense of calm and peace; and Ravenclaw would be clear skies, crisp and precise—perfect for observation.

If we were plants, Gryffindors would be red roses—strong, passionate, and bold with vibrancy—and Slytherin would be ivy: sleek, climbing, and determined to grow and reach the top. Hufflepuff would be sunflowers: warm and cheerful, always turning towards the light; while Ravenclaw would be orchids, delicate and unique, with an air of mystery.

If we were music genres, Gryffindor would be bold, loud, and rebellious Classic Rock or Punk. Slytherin would be sleek and mysterious Dark Synth or Trap; Hufflepuff would be heartfelt and sincere Indie Folk; and Ravenclaw would be chill and timeless Lo-fi or Classical.
But back to the magic—if the Hogwarts houses were mythical creatures, Gryffindor would be a phoenix, brave and fiery, reborn through trials. Slytherin would be a basilisk: cunning and powerful, commanding respect and fear; and Hufflepuff would be a unicorn, pure and kind, exhibiting fierce loyalty. Ravenclaw would be a griffin, a wise and noble guardian of ancient knowledge.

Finally, if these houses we are sorted in were wizards’ spells, Gryffindor would be Expecto Patronum, a powerful force that rises in moments of need. Slytherin would be Imperio, aiming to command power and control and influence others; Hufflepuff would be Protego Maxima, a shield charm to protect their friends; and Ravenclaw would be Revelio, to reveal hidden truths and uncover secrets.

Think of the houses yourself and try to reimagine them as something else! Transform their function, see them through a new lens, and try some on your own. Remember though, this is all in good fun and meant to make you smile—don’t take it too far (I’m looking at you, Slytherins). As always, please be kind to one another!


How to Cheat a Deadline
By Oonagh Brown

The deadline for an assignment is coming up and you are in no way prepared to get things done in time. Now, you are starting to become worried about your professors’ opinions of you, or about getting awful grades that will make your parents upset. Be it bad planning or (if we are being honest) not caring enough that got you into this situation, you now need a solution for your issue. This is a simple guide meant to help you through the decision-making process so that you can worry less.

The first big question you need to ask yourself is whether this assignment is relevant for your grades. If the answer is no, then why are you even worried? Just skip it, and you can focus on the assignments that are actually relevant for the class. No one is going to care about a missing assignment that was not going to be graded anyway. Come up with an excuse; life is busy enough already.

If, however, the assignment is indeed relevant to your overall grades, then the second question you need to bother yourself with is whether or not you care. Because is History of Magic or Astronomy really worth the headache? I know what my answer to this question would be. Nevertheless, if you would still like to go on and reply that yes, you really do care, then let me tell you how to not fail the assignment. Results may vary based on your performance and luck. I will not accept any blame for a T on your report card.

First of all, check if you can delay the deadline. To do this, ask your professor for an extension. One way to do this is to pretend to be sick—there are many treats from the Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes that can aid you with this task. You can skip the class entirely using this strategy, which means there is a chance you could hand in the assignment later on, depending on your professor.

If you truly wish to actually complete the assignment, the trick is to lower your expectations.

Keep the topic basic, and figure out what will be the hardest task to accomplish in the assignment. Is it the research behind something, or the length of the work you must get done? If your problem is the latter, use filler words and ramble on. It might not be the most eloquent of assignments, but it will at least have met the assignment minimum word count goal. Try to focus on what is the most important, and use limited resources when it comes to research, because you won’t have the time to do extensive exploration. If needed, get someone to help you.

You might not get an O, but with some luck, you might at least get an A instead of a T.


Muggle Item of the Month: Exotic Animals
By Dorion Anderson

Today, I come to you with my favourite thing: a top ten list, pet edition! We’ll start at number 10 and work our way towards my top favourite exotic pet that muggles have! They’re not legal everywhere, and I have no idea what wizard laws are regarding these pets because they are far less dangerous than most magical beasts!

10. Eurasian Lynx - I put these at number 10—there’s a lot of “exotic pets” that are just large cats. These ones have cute triangle beards that I think are really unique. Their habitats span from Europe to Asia. These Lynx are protected under a lot of different wildlife laws focused on their survival. Seriously, their twin triangle beards are adorable and I’m obsessed with them.

9. Kinkajou - These are known as “honey bears”! They hail from South America, and in Europe they are not permitted as pets. However, they are very popular as pets in Southeast Asia. They have crazy long tongues and they received the honey name from using those tongues to retrieve honey out of beehives!

8. Toucans- I’m not going to lie, toucans and birds with big beaks in general freak me out. They have pretty strict laws around Europe for owning Toucans, especially regarding importing and exporting. Speaking of their long beaks, they have the largest bill-to-body ratio. I have to admit, I wish they were smaller, but who am I to judge the ratio of birds?

7. Wallaby - These are another one that are restricted in several areas because they are considered an introduced species. These are native to Australia and New Guinea, but have been introduced to New Zealand and Hawaii. They kind of look like mini kangaroos! What’s insane is that they can survive for months without water and get their water from the plants that they eat. For the hot regions they live in, that feels like an incredible evolutionary development.

6. Capuchin Monkeys - Owning primates in general has some of the strictest laws, but they are some of the most popular to import or own. They are incredibly intelligent and are incredibly social. If you want to own one, you need to be able to keep it occupied. They’re also able to use tools! Maybe not for repairs around the house though.

5. Servals - These have a lot of varied laws depending on the country, and a lot of them specifically ban breeding of servals. These are beautiful cats from Africa, and they are highly dangerous if you don’t know how to take care of them. They have been nicknamed “giraffe cats” due to their silhouette caused by their long legs and neck.

4. Axolotls - These have become an icon in plushies and animation because they’re so adorable. Due to being endangered, laws around their trade are very strict to protect their population. They have a crazy ability to regrow their limbs or even parts of their brain which is so cool, but also kind of terrifying in a way. To me, they look creepy in real life, but adorable as plushies.

3. Sugar Gliders - These animals have pretty loose laws around the world, and they are native to Australia. These are beautiful, adorable little creatures. Sugar gliders should be kept in pairs or groups as they will be deeply depressed if they’re kept on their own. They have “wings” between their arms and legs that help them glide from place to place.

2. Coatimundi - These are highly restricted to own and are considered an invasive species. They are SO cute! They are native to South and Central America. If you can, I highly recommend looking at a picture of them because they are scary and adorable at the same time. While the males are typically solitary creatures, the females and children live in groups together.

1. Fennec Foxes - I love these little guys with their big big ears. Their ears are actually used for regulating their temperature as they typically inhabit the desert. They’re the smallest type of foxes! Depending on where you are in Europe, you may or may not be able to own these depending on licensing. Honestly, these are number one just because they’re so adorable and cuddleable, even though I know I shouldn’t base it all off that.


Putting Your Hand Up
By Alyssea Brown

Putting your hand up, or simply getting involved, can be a daunting experience. For the junior years, it feels almost impossible to do so. After all, we’re still young and being at a magic school is a new experience. Hogwarts is a massive school and it seems the halls never have an end. So, where can we begin to make a name for ourselves? And importantly, why should we establish our place in the school community?

Getting involved can ease you into the school life with fewer difficulties. You’ll meet all sorts of students with similar goals and interests; it’s a great way to make friends!

Not only that, you end up figuring out what you want to do with your life. We come into Hogwarts with almost no clue where we want to be by the time we leave. We’re only eleven-years-old and fresh in a world we’ve likely never experienced at its fullest. Luckily for you, the school has many areas you can participate in and find your calling.

House Sports!

Getting involved can start in your house. Want to join your house’s sports teams? You’ve got the choice to cast spells and dodge on the dueling team, dodge bludgers on the Quidditch pitch, or race through treacherous tracks on a broom (broom racing). Trying out the sports teams is a simple way to start establishing your name in the school.

Event Committees

For the less sporty people, there’s still ways for you to get involved. Students can be invited to plan seasonal events, such as the Spring Ball, summer camp, and the Fall Ball. These events are the highlight of everyone’s time here.

In addition, students from all over the world in schools such as Durmstrang, Beauxbatons, and Ilvermorny join us, so you can definitely garner some attention from them for planning these events.

Clubs and Clans

Still not a sportsperson or a planner? Then we’ve got clubs! There are many clubs catering to different interests across the student body. They are student-made and led and there’s sure to be something that catches your eye.

There’s music groups, peer tutoring groups, and even groups where you can discuss your love for specific classes. You only have to look around and write your name on their sign-up sheets.

Or… how about our Mentors Program?

If you still feel unsure about how to get involved, the mentor program is a great navigation tool. We have mentors who are well-versed in everything the school has to offer and many mentor-mentee pairings end up as great friends that further deepens the growing student’s involvement in the school.

If you’ve been at the school for a long time but also feel like you haven’t made a name for yourself, then being a mentor is a great start! After all, you were once in the First Years’ shoes, in awe of everything and unsure of where to start.

While I can’t cover everything you could possibly do at this school, I hope this has given you an idea of where you can get started. You’ve got years ahead of you, so make it worth your time.

And for seniors who are on the fence about getting involved in something in their final year, remember, it’s never too late to try one more thing on your way out.


Which International Wizarding School Would Suit You Best?
By Aly Salinger

With the Daily Prophet recently announcing Hogwarts’ signing of the Hogwarts Transfer Admission Charter (HTAC), for the first time it has become possible for the everyday student to leave the hallowed halls of Hogwarts to study abroad at one of the other international magical schools around the world. While nothing quite measures up to our turrets and towers, maybe you’re looking for a change of scenery! If that sounds like you, then take this quiz to find out which of the 9 schools in the International Magical Education Exchange Accord may suit you best!

Keep track of how many times you answer each letter, and at the end, your true educational home will be revealed! If you tie, no worries – pick what feels most right for you!

What do you consider your best quality?
A. Elegance
B. Industriousness
C. Strength
D. Wholeness
E. Intellect
F. Humility
G. Mindfulness
H. Acceptance
I. Versatility

What is your favourite non-magical school subject?
A. Arts
B. Language
C. History
D. Religion
E. Mathematics
F. Gardening
G. Cooking
H. Science
I. Muggle Studies

If you could meet any of these magical creatures, which would you choose?
A. Wood nymph
B. Fire-dwelling salamander
C. Knarl
D. Jackalope
E. Demiguise
F. Bowtruckle
G. Mooncalf
H. Fwooper
I. Niffler

What is your favourite colour?
A. Pale blue
B. Dark green
C. Red
D. Navy blue
E. Pink
F. Olive green
G. Yellow
H. White
I. Black

Choose the spell that most speaks to you.
A. Protego! (Shield Charm)
B. Metelojinx! (Weather-Modifying Charm)
C. Stupefy! (Stunning Spell)
D. Obliviate! (Memory Charm)
E. Orchideous! (Bouquet Spell)
F. Glacius! (Freezing Charm)
G. Herbivicus! (Gardening Charm)
H. Stella Cascadia! (Star Shower Spell)
I. Expelliarmus! (Disarming Charm)

If you could wear any school uniform, what would you choose?
A. Something graceful and light, perhaps made of linen
B. Something that represents lots about me, like my gender identity and extracurriculars
C. Something nice and warm, perhaps made of wool and fur
D. Something preppy and patterned – but let me pick my own shoes!
E. Something that changes based on how good my grades are
F. Something sharp, fashionable, and crisp, perhaps with a warm hat
G. I don’t want to be given a uniform – let me wear whatever I want!
H. Something bright and colourful, with lots of accessories
I. Something that is similar to a standard wizarding robe, perhaps with some small changes

If you could live in any environment, which would you pick?
A. In Muggle mountains
B. In the rainforest
C. I don’t know, but somewhere cold!
D. On TOP of a mountain!
E. Near a volcano
F. On a lakeshore
G. On an island
H. In magical mountains
I. Somewhere familiar, somewhere I’ve already been

(Note from the author: Why do so many magical schools have something to do with mountains? Why do we yearn for the skies? Anyway. Final question!)

Who is your favourite Hogwarts professor?
A. Professor Lécuyer (Defence Against the Dark Arts)
B. Professor Toussaint (Care of Magical Creatures)
C. Professor Audley (Study of Ancient Runes)
D. Professor Toussaint-Fleischer (Herbology)
E. Professor Iwasaki (Head of Ravenclaw)
F. Professor Nenovsky (Divination)
G. Professor Asmaralaya (Potions)
H. Professor Galim (Muggle Studies)
I. Headmaster Lear

If you answered mostly A’s, you belong at Beauxbâtons Academy of Magic! One of the most famous magical schools worldwide, your love for elegance and grace will certainly thrive at this architectural marvel of a French school!

If you answered mostly B’s, you belong at Castelobruxo! Enjoy the beauty of the lush, yet dangerous, Amazon as you transfer your studies to this historical institution with a focus on hard work!

If you answered mostly C’s, you belong at Durmstrang Institute! Strength, power, and combat are three of this resilient school’s core values – will you make the cut as one of the toughest there?

If you answered mostly D’s, you belong at Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! Whether you’ll represent mind, body, heart, or soul there, you will certainly feel whole at this American academy!

If you answered mostly E’s, you belong at Mahoutokoro! This elite academy focuses on perfection and exclusivity, and clearly, so do you! Will you prove you’re the best of the best?

If you answered mostly F’s, you belong at Koldovstoretz Conservatory! One of the youngest magical schools worldwide, this humble, militaristic school strives to prove itself – and perhaps you will thrive there!

If you answered mostly G’s, you belong at Tenūsa, Isle of Divination! We at the Headliner foresee a great love for Divination in your future if you transfer to this transcendental island paradise in the Celebes Sea!

If you answered mostly H’s, you belong at Uagadou School of Magic! A mystical school known for its acceptance and focus on dreams, perhaps this academy will help you to achieve yours!

If you answered mostly I’s, you shouldn’t transfer at all – you belong right here at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! Hogwarts has always been there to welcome you home, so why would you want to go anywhere else but right here?


Pet Inclusion at Hogwarts
By Xiomara Torres

With May flowers, comes National Pet Month and I for one am thrilled to be able to talk to you all about pets. The inclusion of pets at Hogwarts seems to have changed over the years at Hogwarts. Traditionally, students came to Hogwarts with one of five creatures.

The first is owls. These are great for communication purposes, allowing students to send their loved ones back home regular messages. There is a huge variety when it comes to these friendly birds. Everything from the Eastern Screech Owl, which is very small to the very large Great White Owls. There is an owl to suit every price range, including the rare Morepork Owl which is one of the most expensive ones. The second is cats, which are commonly associated with witchcraft - especially in the muggle world. In Issue #40’s “U-Name It, Unique It” article by Aly Salinger, cats ranked as the most popular pet! This isn’t surprising given just how many breeds are available.

The third is toads, which are one of the cheapest pets available. Some may consider them to be slimy and slippery but they come in several breeds and students enjoy running after them as they jump around. Then we have the rats as the fourth option, which are also quite cheap. Like toads, they can also hide in your pocket or bag if you want to sneak them into a place! These pocket friendly companions may not be for everyone though. If you enjoy chasing your pet through the halls then the fifth option might be for you! Pygmy puffs are known for their rolling abilities and floofliness, which get them the attention of anyone who likes cute things.

However, in recent years, Hogwarts has become more accepting of change - not only in their student population but also in the companions that students are allowed to bring. The number of pocket friendly companions has increased quite drastically. Did you know that you can now purchase lizards and spiders as pets too? Both will set you back quite a bit but they are great options for someone who wants something small. Though both of those are quick and may end up running away and hiding somewhere in your dorm if you’re not careful. Be wary of your spider around those pygmy puffs, they might think they are a snack! Both of these are likely quite easy to lose in the castle too but if you get them a little tank, that will help! You can purchase an Enchanted Heat Rock from Magical Menagerie too that gives them somewhere warm to sit. Lizards also love their Sweet Leaves!

If you’re not big on them then fear not, there are bunnies available. These are great if you’re looking for something cute and cuddly but they do require quite a bit of attention! Leave them alone for too long and you may return to ripped bedsheets. Why not get them a Pet Bed of their own though? Now ferrets may not be for everyone but they do sleep for most of the day so perfect if you’re worried about leaving them alone whilst you’re in class. I would recommend picking up some Ferret Chew Treats whilst you’re at the store - they’ll love you!

The newest pet to be welcomed into the school is the half-crups! These are magical dogs and they are incredibly cute but they are also the most expensive pet available. Right now, the only crup allowed is the Wexford Half-Crup, which is similar to a Jack Russell Terrier in appearance! You can also pick up a Self-walking leash from the Magical Menagerie, which will help you walk your half-crup if you’re busy studying!

And my personal favourite is the fish option! Muggles often have goldfish in a glass bowl, and they are super easy to look after. The Golden Veiltail is also very cheap but I would suggest getting an Enchanted Fish Carrying Case to carry your new companion around in - and why not consider joining the Fish Club if you have one? We decorate our fish tanks and such in meetings! You can take them for walks in their carrying cases!

The Magical Menagerie also houses some snakes but I would not recommend one of those unless you know how to speak to them. Nonetheless, with this huge variety of pets - each with multiple breeds - there is literally something for everyone! If you do not have an animal companion, be sure to visit the Magical Menagerie in the summer holidays and get yourself a new friend!

And then arrange pet playdates with everyone! They are a great way to meet new people, and with such a good variety of options, there is no excuse not to have one!

XOXO, XIO


Overworked, Underpaid, And It's My Fault
By Dorion Anderson

My fellow students, sixth year has been one of reckoning.

I have spent a lot of time exhausted, crying, staring at a wall, letting my eyes glaze over, staring at textbooks and assignments half done. It’s honestly been really hard. I say this not to strike fear into the lower years’ hearts and minds and not to commiserate with upper-years who know this song and dance all too well.

I honestly don’t know what the purpose of this is exactly, I’m just using this as a place to share a story that I think too many of us deal with in silence and secrecy. I think a lot of us feel like we can’t be honest about our struggles. Especially as a muggle-born, I feel like I have to grin and bear it because I have access to this beautiful world that others don’t. Shouldn’t I be doing everything?

The answer, in short, is no. At the start of the sixth year, I added another one of my roles back that I’ve held before. I became a prefect again! I was incredibly excited while also incredibly nervous. I had felt like I had failed in this role again, I didn’t want to leave my Head of House or my housemates lacking in good leadership. Not to toot my own horn, but I do think I’ve been doing alright. If you disagree, please don’t tell me (unless you’re Professor Browne, then that makes sense). However, this meant I was a prefect, I was a writer for the Headliner, I was on the broom racing team, and I was part of the healing internship. Not only this, I was a student, a boyfriend, and a friend. It was a lot.

By doing everything, I was getting minimal enjoyment and knowledge from it all. I was exhausted and my performance suffered in the things I once loved. Everything became a chore, and I was tired. My reality check came in the form of my boyfriend and I feeling like we were falling apart because I never had time for him. It was a bad, bad time. But, it was the reality check that I needed. And don’t worry, Elsi and I are still together.

So I dropped broom racing and the healing internship. I’m so much better for it. I feel like I have time to breathe now, to do things I enjoy. I hate to say it, but this will be my last Headliner article as I drop this from my schedule too. It has been a pleasure and a joy writing for all of you, my dear readers. I want to enjoy my last year of Hogwarts. Go on dates with my boyfriend (gross, I know), paint, lay in the grass, study without wanting to cry, sleep in on the weekends, and hang out with my friends.

There’s plenty of opportunity, plenty of things to do. Manage your schedule and your own mind. We really shouldn’t be exhausted, sad, and stressed all the time. Reach out to your friends, your Head of House, a trusted professor. These people are here to help you and support you. It’s ok to drop some things, you don’t have to do everything. You have seven years here, do one thing a year to explore your options and stick with what really makes you happy.

Don’t exhaust yourself, my friends, I promise it isn’t worth it. I’m so much happier doing less, I can enjoy the little activities I do even more than I did before.


Magical and Muggle Meals: Drinks of the Wizarding World
By Aly Salinger

As the weather gets warmer and we students move in droves to spend more time outdoors, it’s best to bring some beverages with us to drive off dehydration! Though water’s quite refreshing, and butterbeer is a traditional favourite, why not sip some other student-friendly drinks to provide both flavour and hydration while you’re lounging by the shores of the lake or sunbathing atop the viaduct? Here we’ve provided a few different options for you to try!

Cherry Soda
Serves: 4
Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
4 cups black cherries
1 cup water
1 cup sugar from a Sugar Shrub (*granulated sugar)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Sparkling water
Ice (optional)
Cocktail umbrellas (optional)

*Muggle alternative.

Directions:
Place a medium-sized cauldron over low heat and add cherries, water, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves entirely.
Use a wooden spoon to smash the cherries against the side of the cauldron and release the juice within, then increase your flame to a medium heat until the juice begins to bubble. Allow to boil for ten minutes, still stirring on occasion.
Take off the heat and allow to cool slightly, then strain the liquid syrup from the solids . Set solids aside for consumption elsewhere!
Add the syrup and ice to individual goblets, then pour sparkling water into each goblet and top with an umbrella; this garnish was popularised in the late 1990s by former Hogwarts Charms professor Filius Flitwick. Stir to your liking and serve!

Pumpkin Juice
Serves: 6
Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
32 ounces apple juice
10 ounces peach, pear, or apricot juice
6 tablespoons pumpkin purée
½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract**
Ice (optional)

**As has been said before, do not attempt to extract this from Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans.

Directions:
Add all ingredients to a large pitcher and mix well.
Add ice to individual goblets and divide contents of the pitcher amongst the goblets. Enjoy!

Gillywater
Serves: 16
Time: between 5-30 minutes
Ingredients:
1 gallon sparkling or still water
1 cucumber
2 limes
½ cup mint

Directions:
Using your wand (*knife or peeler), carefully peel the cucumber in thin strips until you reach the seeds and discard the seedy middle core. Place these thin strips, skin included, in the water and stir.
Carefully zest and juice the limes into the water, ensuring that no seeds or pith fall in. Discard the juiced shells.
Shred or chop the mint and add to the water. Stir the whole thing well.
Optionally, you may allow the drink to steep for up to 30 minutes before serving; the longer it steeps, the stronger the cool, refreshing flavour will be! Otherwise, serve immediately!

Otter’s Fizzy Orange Juice
Serves: 4
Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
Still water
8 tablespoons sugar from a Sugar Shrub (*granulated sugar)
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
20 ounces orange juice
4 ounces sparkling water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (**see above)
2 ½ tablespoons dragon milk half-and-half (*cow half-and-half)
Ice (optional)

Directions:
Prepare a sugar rim station by setting out two shallow dishes. Fill the first with water, and in the second, combine sugar and pumpkin pie spice thoroughly. For each individual goblet, turn it upside down and dip the rim first in the water and second in the sugar-and-spice, then turn right side up again to dry. Add ice to each goblet, if desired.
Now prepare the drink itself. Mix the vanilla extract with the half-and-half, and divide the mixture evenly amongst the four goblets.
Mix orange juice and sparkling water, then divide the mixture evenly amongst the four goblets. Stir, if desired, and serve!

A Seven-Year Shift: How Hogwarts Changes You
by Aly Salinger

Whether a pureblood or a Muggle-born, excited for classes or not, every first year enters Hogwarts the same way: bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, without knowledge of what will come. Similarly, all seventh years leave hardened and wisened, having experienced everything from the highest highs of sport wins and examination passes to the lowest lows of ball-borne injuries and heartbreaks. But what exactly happens in between?

To attempt to put into words the differences between a first year and a seventh year at Hogwarts, we interviewed three of each about their dreams for the future and what lessons they have learned.

When queried on their future goals, the first-year students seemed to align with what their parents hoped for them. “My current biggest dream is to follow in my momma's footsteps,” said firstie Hufflepuff Magnolia Laurellion, explaining her mother’s career as a Muggle nurse and expressing her desire to perhaps be a Healer someday; similarly, Slytherin Oliver Armani told the Headliner that he wished to join the Ministry, where both of his parents work, to make them proud. Gryffindor Eonaria Kabukimono, however, had “no idea!” about her future plans, but mentioned an interest in creatures. As far as classes go, she still has time to decide!

The seventh years, on the other hand, were more specific. Lavinia Cloven of Ravenclaw Quidditch and broom racing captaincy fame, for instance, explained her desire to continue her successful Hogwarts career into the real world, while also keeping her loved ones close: “My current biggest dream is to be an internationally known professional Quidditch player. I also dream that I continue to have great relationships with my family and friends. I don’t want my determination to achieve my career to diminish the relationships I have.”

Perhaps less specific, but just as pragmatic, was Gryffindor prefect and duelling co-captain Galton Lansdale. “I need to find a job,” he told the Headliner when asked about his future plans. “So, probably finding a job. If anyone knows of jobs, let me know.” You heard the man!

When it came to these students’ best-learned lesson at Hogwarts, both years agreed: the most valuable lessons are those learned outside of classes. (Don’t tell the professors they said that.) Armani’s was to not let others drag him into trouble, whereas Kabukimono said to grab on to opportunities and Laurellion reminded herself to be kind and patient with her learning journey! What wise and kind first years we have here.

As for the old folks, all three focused more on the dangers at Hogwarts rather than the opportunities offered. Lansdale said, “Knowing when to bow out is even more important than knowing when to go all in,” stating that it’s more stupid to keep fighting when you know you’re going to lose than it is to simply quit! Our own Headliner Editor-in-Chief and benevolent dictator, Ruby Cazares of Slytherin, told us that “I’ve found that action is almost always better than inaction, and hesitation can cost you very dearly.” Of course, Cloven couldn’t let us go without one more sports metaphor: “The most important thing I have learned besides how to throw a Quaffle is that having support and a team is everything… without a team you are just an individual and it’s very rare that one person wins a game. It is always a team effort!”

Lastly, each student offered up a piece of advice for the other group. You’re never too old for childlike wisdom, and you’re always young enough to listen to your elders, after all! We’ve compiled these suggestions below:

Eonaria Kabukimono, 1st Year Gryffindor: “Yikes, should they really be taking advice from me? Well, umm, I guess that they shouldn't doubt themselves! Take on the world and be proud of yourself and your work. And don't let any nasty employers be mean to you!”

Magnolia Laurellion, 1st Year Hufflepuff: “Don't forget to be childlike… joyful and whimsical! Never forget that you were once an eleven-year-old, in awe of Hogwarts castle, sitting in a boat that once felt so big.”

Oliver Armani, 1st Year Slytherin: “Get a good-paying job. And don't screw anything up or make stupid mistakes that will ruin you in the world.”

Galton Lansdale, 7th Year Gryffindor: “Try to avoid as many Flipendos – and when you get to it, Confringos – as possible… and chocolate frogs are just gambling. Not that I have anything against gambling, just know that there’s better chocolate.”

Lavinia Cloven, 7th Year Ravenclaw: “Challenge yourself by joining a sports team or club that is outside your comfort zone. It’s important to try something new. Also, be active in your house and stay away from the drinks at school balls!”

Ruby Cazares, 7th Year Slytherin: “Trust yourself and work hard. Try new things and take advantage of your resources; the time will be gone before you know it.”


Your Guide to Broomstock 2025
by Simon Kincaid

WHAT IS BROOMSTOCK?

Broomstock is a spellbinding three-day wizarding music festival that celebrates music, magic, and community. Here’s everything you need to know.

Mimicking the Muggles’ Woodstock Music and Art Fair in 1969 (commonly referred to as Woodstock), Broomstock began as a rogue gathering of unknown musicians and magical misfits but is now a fully-sanctioned annual celebration. Every summer, magical folk everywhere pack their enchanted tents, get their best dancing shoes, and practice their charms to prepare for the event.

It is as much about community as it is about music. It is a rare moment when purebloods, half-bloods, Muggle-borns, Squibs, half-breeds, and magical beings of all kinds can gather in harmony.

DATE AND LOCATION

Nestled along the magically expanded heaths of Dartmoor, Broomstock will be back—and bigger than ever—this year! From July 11-13, the wizarding world’s most beloved summer music festival will deliver sounds, spells, and spectacles. The area is hidden from Muggles by similar enchantments to those that are used on our castle and is also protected with spells to keep out unwanted visitors and repel bad weather.

GETTING THERE & RULES

Portkeys are the preferred method of travel to get to the extravaganza. While there is the alternate tent-based Floo Network hub, it becomes congested rather quickly, no matter how large the tent is made. You’ll get there, but they can’t say just how squished you’ll be once you do. Knight Bus services to the festival are only at night, and reliability has been said to be spotty.

There are very few rules at Broomstock: no hatred allowed, no Summoning Charms to bring the bands closer, and no use of love potions without consent.

LINEUP

On various enchanted stages, floating platforms that drift above the crowd, you’ll find many talents.

This year’s main event is The Weird Sisters, back to begin their reunion tour! Their genre is Wizard Rock (WRock) and they’re sure to bring in larger crowds than ever. They are known for songs such as “Magic Works”, “This is the Night”, and, of course, “Do the Hippogriff”.

Other WRock bands featured are The Banshee Howls, known for “Shriek Before Dawn” and “Whispers in the West Tower”, and Snitch in the System with their hits “No More Ministry Lies” and “Arresto Momentum”.

Magical Folk groups will also be there, with groups like Fiddlers of Faley, Phoenix Song, and Stubby Boardman & The Hobgoblins.

Let’s not forget that Magical EDM (‘Electronic’ Dance Music) sound, brought to the festival by Cauldron Born, Potion Drop, Spelltraxx, and featuring a finale by the ever mysterious Invisibility Cloaks (as no one knows who they are)!

You’ll experience visual additions to aid your musical experience with looping charm sequences, glowing cauldron visuals, floating glitter, and shadow magic. Interludes between bands involve spontaneous drum battles and literal battles of the bands, where spells are cast out in duelling-like fashion.

Other performing groups include The Blibbering Humdingers, The Remembralls, Veela Charm, Sirens of the Deep, Hogwarts Dropouts, and Wand & Harmony.

EXPERIENCES

Beyond music, the festival includes several experiences, such as enchanted air installations, midnight duelling tournaments, wand-carving workshops, and sunrise flying yoga sessions over the moors.

You’ll find potion lounges that craft various mood-altering draughts like Dreamcloud Tonics and Euphoric Elixir. There will be spell-jam sessions where you can jam with some of the visiting musicians’ actual instruments, or amplify your own, using charms. You can even visit the Time-Turner Tent, an illusion tent with looping performances from different eras of magical music—it’ll be like being there!

On the last night of Broomstock, the event ends with a sky-symphony of coordinated fireworks and floating melodies.

VENDORS

There are many fun, quirky vendors that you’ll find wandering the enchanted paths between music stages or within a cluster of tents.

You’ll find a variety of food and drink stalls like Fizzy Wizzy Fizzcles, selling fizzy ice lollies that float mid-air and must be caught with your tongue. If they don’t hit your tongue first, they disappear right before your eyes. There’s also Bertie Bott’s Burrito Bazaar that offers burritos with randomly enchanted fillings. For vegan options, try Gravy and Mandrake.

Many other vendors sell merchandise and trinkets. Official band gear will be for sale from each band, but check out Willoughby’s Wild Wearables for more. Hex & Flex is where to go to get tattoos, permanent or temporary, that shimmer, animate, or occasionally sass their owner. At Trevor’s Totally Not Cursed Trinkets, you’ll find some interesting and allegedly Ministry-approved items, but note that no items are refundable.

CONCLUSION

Some say Broomstock is where magic meets music, others say it’s one stage and a thousand spells, but one thing is for certain: when the music starts and the wands rise, there’s no place in the world quite like Broomstock.


Who Does Your News Come From?: Koko Riddle and Ruby Cazares
by Evpraksiya Vinogradova and Alyss Gilmour

Hogwarts students have become accustomed to our very own student-run newspaper that aims to provide the most reliable accounts of the exciting events that run across the school. From gossip and horoscopes to the latest in academics and politics, who exactly are the people behind Hogwarts’s very own Headliner? Alyss Gilmour and Evpraksiya Vinogradova aim to answer this question in issue #42 of the Headliner.

Graduating from Hogwarts this year is our Secretary, Koko Riddle, and Editor-in-Chief, Ruby Cazares. Throughout their careers at the Headliner, both of these seventh years have had an immeasurable impact on the programme. Writing articles into the dead of night for the sake of making the deadline? Check. Editing said articles over and over again for clarity before it hits the presses? Also check. These two have done it all at the Headliner, and so we wanted to ask them some questions prior to their release from Hogwarts, and the Headliner along with it.

———

(1) Are there any traditions you participate in as part of the Headliner? For example, welcoming new people with a prank or gift or praying to the collective quill whenever a writer has writer's block?

R: Perhaps other members of the team do, but I prefer to keep things practical and focus on what’s important. I’m not a big participant in unnecessary things like that.

K: It's been a while, but we used to do parties for new recruits. Those were fun. Historically, we've also welcomed people with new quills—for those of us who prefer to hand-write things, it's certainly a fun addition to a quill collection!

(2) What made you stay in the Headliner?

R: It’s been quite a consistent part of my life since I joined, and I’ve always liked it, so there hasn’t been a reason for me to leave. I’ve been able to explore multiple different roles within the team, which likely helped avoid potential boredom, and, after being the Editor-in-Chief for a year now, the Headliner feels almost like my own.

K: Having a platform to say what needs to be said! Selfishly, I like to talk about Quidditch quite a bit in my articles, and the Headliner has provided a welcome avenue to garner some attention for the sport. Otherwise, the community—I've made a lot of friends and acquaintances since I joined the Headliner in 2019, and I wouldn't trade the fun that can give you for anything in the world.

(3) How is the Headliner different now from when you first joined?

R: The team has grown in size, for one, which has enabled us to be more ambitious with the number of articles published per issue. Our design has evolved as well and is very different from the style most commonly used when I first joined the team back in 2019. Obviously, the membership has also changed greatly—it’s been nearly six years—and, by nature, having different people on the team alters the environment slightly with each new person. The only person who has been a part of the Headliner for as long as I have is Koko. I suppose it will be the end of an era once we are gone.

K: Well, for starters, there's a completely different group of people. I actually don't think anyone from when I joined is still here! So that's different. Other than that, we definitely have a more... well, a more positive reporting experience. It doesn't seem like Hogwarts students encounter as many deadly things as they used to. I think that's a good thing, although some might argue!

(4) As you graduate and leave Hogwarts behind, what legacy do you hope to leave behind?

R: I would like to be remembered as a strong and effective leader, as I have dedicated a lot of time and effort to the Headliner and have kept everything running smoothly. I hope our efficiency and integrity will continue even after I graduate.

K: Well, I'd certainly hope I'm remembered. The younger kids do seem to like me, so I think I'm okay on that end. But I'd like for people to remember my name for a while after I leave, to be one of those people who isn't forgotten for a long time.

It would be nice for it to be a positive legacy. You know, hardworking, impressive, the type of person kids look up to. That.

———

As we ask them to look back on their past, Koko and Ruby are looking forward to a future without the pressures of newspaper deadlines. We hope this freedom translates well as they make the transition away from Hogwarts. Thank you for your time here with us at the Headliner!


Professors and Their Summer Holidays: What on Earth Do They Do?
by Ruth Fairchild

One often finds it strange to see their professors out and about beyond the school walls—who would have known teachers could exist outside of a teaching space? But yes, they do experience life just as we do. With the summer holidays fast approaching, I ventured forward and interviewed a handful of professors, asking them all the one question many students have been curious to know the answer to:

What do you do during the summer?

First on the list is Professor Sauber of Potions. His summer is quite jam-packed—as we all know, our dear professor is a busy, busy man. “This summer, I will begin with Prague,” he began, before proceeding to openly discuss his stay in peaceful accommodation and walking along the streets, talking to “familiar faces who do not know me and thus cannot disappoint me.” Strangers? Before I had the opportunity to ask, the professor had continued presenting his itinerary. Right after Prague, he will jump to Florence, where he will once again visit Michelangelo's statue at Basilica di Santa Croce. This, he proclaims, is not for art but for calibration. “Art, much like magic, has standards worth revisiting.” What a man of words.

Professor Kāne, too, seemed to have grand plans. This is quite contrary to his usual summer, in which he notes he spends a lot of time away from home to recover rare artifacts and rescue endangered species of magical creatures from various horrors. “This is, in fact, my very first summer where I'm not out doing something incredibly dangerous and making my wife worry,” he admitted. While lacking an itinerary like Professor Sauber’s, our Transfiguration professor will be staying close to his home in Glasgow and attending all of his (and I quote, “beautiful”) wife, Leilani’s races. “When I'm not supporting her, I will be planning classes and perhaps a few fun events. I know that doesn't seem to be the most exciting of answers, but after so many years, I think I'm long overdue for a quiet summer.” He then mulled over taking his wife on a few dates but didn’t go on. Whatever dates he has in store for her, I do hope she enjoys them!

Professors often conclude their quotes with matters of education. “My goal for the summer is to bring some much needed excitement to Transfiguration. To do this will require quite a bit of creativity to provide maximum excitement for all of my students! Everyone should enjoy their summers to the fullest but come back ready to learn!” Good for you, Professor. If only students had as much enthusiasm for the subject as he does.

Our great Defence Against the Dark Arts professor was surprisingly cheerful, considering I interviewed him after a lesson on the Knife to Paper Airplane spell. “I usually spend the summer with my loved ones in the French countryside. This year, I will be planning my wedding.” A wedding! How could one not be intrigued? I pressed on, and he answered with a chuckle. “Well, I suppose I'll be Orion Browne soon enough.” Shortly afterwards, he gave me an O.

A Browne? I was reeling with the discovery. However, I was unsure as to which Browne Professor Lécuyer might have been referring to. As luck would have it, I ran into Professor Galahad Browne (Head of Gryffindor) in the corridors and managed to ask what it was he did during the summer. “Well, I've only had off in the summer for a couple of years now, so I don’t really have a routine,” he began. Then, he told me about what he had done last summer. All traces of exhaustion seemed to disappear from his face. Boy, was he giddy with love! He rambled on about having taken a vacation with Professor Lécuyer on the French Riviera before giggling. “So we're in the room at this really bougie hotel and I'm making toast. Meanwhile my darling Orion is just staring at it while it toasts and when I come back from the bathroom…” He had to repeat the phrase twice, he was laughing so hard by then, “...the toaster finished, right, and as it pops out, Orion is so surprised that he whips out his wand.” As quickly as he had burst into laughter, he recovered to mention that they were going to go back to France and get married. If you ever do see the two in the corridors, offer your congratulations!

Unfortunately, many of the other professors and Heads of House were unable to accommodate my requests for an interview, but what is to blame but their busy teaching lives? This, dear readers, is why you should jolly well appreciate them.


Class of 2025
by Xiomara Torres

It’s that time of year when the seventh years are full-fledged adults, about to embark on a new adventure outside of Hogwarts. Let's have a look at some of the graduating Class of 2025!

Headliner Editor-in-Chief, Ruby Cazares, remains a mystery to us. “As for specific career plans, I’d prefer to keep that private for now, but I’m remaining open-minded too in case life takes me down a different path than the one I expect.” Nonetheless, Ruby said she will “never stop challenging myself and growing.”

Ruby’s parents “had always denigrated and vilified [Slytherin]”, so she “had wanted to see if it was really that bad (it wasn’t) and form opinions” for herself. The now Slytherin Prefect continued, “I definitely grew, was exposed to new things, and learned a lot, which I had expected and wanted prior to coming to Hogwarts, but I didn’t expect the amount of danger that I would face while at the school. I’d say that overall, though, I’m pretty satisfied with my time here. I’ve achieved a lot, held quite a few positions in several different areas, and I feel I’m probably as prepared as I can be to enter the adult world.”

[bKoko Riddle[/b], who has also held many roles in her Hogwarts journey, has secured a position in Cork, playing Quidditch professionally! How cool is that?! I asked her if first year Koko had any future dreams, and her answer should come as no surprise—“I was more focused on getting through my classes with an A at that point. But after joining the Quidditch team in my first year, I didn't know what I would do without Quidditch in my life.”

This is very similar to Lavinia Cloven’s story: “Before I came to Hogwarts, the only thing I knew about my life was that I loved flying and wanted to play for my house Quidditch team. I had no idea that I would fall so in love with the sport and have the talent to make it a career.” After loving the sport for so long, it is wonderful that they are both able to play professionally. Lavinia hasn’t picked a team but plans to become a professional Chaser. She even boldly declared, “I want to be the best Chaser in the world and make an undeniable mark on professional Quidditch!” Perhaps Koko and Lavinia will face each other in the leagues!

Meenauh Silmataurea, a duellist who believes “I always thought that the Ministry needs me. That's always a way to go. But I believe it's better than nothing, especially if I want my... er... skills to be applied in proper places.” She has some fun (maybe questionable?) ideas about her future. “I think it is very important to keep our community safe from the Muggle eye. So, dealing with all the accidental magic occurrences. Maybe Obliviate a few people here and there.” Welp? But she does value Muggles: “Muggles are fascinating, and I learnt a lot from them... Actually, because Muggles are sometimes too fascinating, and I learnt a lot about them, I wish to keep securing our community from being discovered.”

Whilst Meenauh may not be considering duelling professionally, Bridget Collins is. This is no surprise when she has won so many duels in her career! Bridget said, “I didn't grow up around magic, so back then a lot of these things weren't even an option. When I was maybe five I said I wanted to be a doctor, and then for a while it was an astronaut, and I think right before I came to Hogwarts it was a scientist or a football player, so I guess that part hasn’t changed other than the sport. But what I pictured adulthood looking like has definitely changed since becoming a witch.” It may not have been her plans, but she is a badass on the duelling stage!

It is so exciting seeing the graduating students grow. From all of us at the Headliner, we wish you the very best of luck in the future—may your dreams come true. As a parting note, I’ll leave you a final quote from Lavinia, “Maybe one day I’ll own a team or return to Hogwarts to teach, but for now I’m focused on playing the game I love.” It truly would be a dream to see our graduates as professors.

XOXO, XIO


How to Sweep the Competition Under the Rug
by Oonagh Brown

For all the jocks and sports friends across Hogwarts, there is one question that is asked the most: “Which broom should I get?”

Well, why don’t we find out? Research was done to learn which brooms are currently being used by Quidditch players and broom racers. To be as exact as possible, a list of the top 3 brooms used for each of the Quidditch positions will be revealed.

However, not every student is already using their dream broom, so to be accurate, a whole bunch of different sports players were asked what their most coveted broom was. I made it my mission to find out which brooms are most desired, because this is necessary to know what YOU want to save up for, in case you are interested in a broom sport.

Let us first take a look at the overall breakdown of brooms used by our official sports’ team members. Interestingly enough, there are exactly 100 brooms currently owned by Quidditch players and broom racers, if one includes the school broom that is under the care of at least one student.

It appears that the most popular broom is the Silver Arrow, owned by 36% of students currently on the roster of a broom sport, followed by the Comet 180 (10%) and the Firebolt (9%). This is unsurprising, considering that the Silver Arrow can reach a speed of 68 miles per hour, and while the Firebolt is unmatched when it comes to speed and manoeuvrability, it is quite expensive. The Comet 180 is decent, though I don’t really see the hype, but it is pretty affordable, which may be why it is such a popular option.

Across the sports, there is an abundance of brooms in use, some of which get more love and care than others. Some brooms, like the Autumn Cruise and Pine Chopper, appear to require a certain taste, but pack a punch when it comes to their usefulness in sports. The Moontrimmer and Nimbus 1700 were just shy of making it onto the podium of most owned brooms across the sports.

Broom Racing
For broom racing, the brooms most used are easy to distinguish. Almost half of the students (48%) favour the use of the Silver Arrow. In second place, with 16% when it comes to actual purchases, one will find the Starsweeper XXI. It is a famous racing broom, but it is quite difficult to master. Last but not least on the podium is the Comet 180, owned by 10% of the broom racers.

Quidditch
For those of you interested in the broom closet of the Quidditch players, you are in for a treat and some surprises. Across the positions, the Silver Arrow is the most favoured broom and it is owned by 30% of Quidditch players. It is followed by the Firebolt and Comet 180 which are both owned by 10% of Quidditch players.

The numbers become more interesting when you take a look at the individual positions. Owned by 31% of Beaters, the Firebolt seems to be particularly popular. This showcases the superiority of Beaters compared to Quidditch players of other positions, who fail to have any originality. Still, 25% of Beaters own the Silver Arrow.

The majority of Seekers, 27%, own the Silver Arrow. In second place for Seekers is the Moontrimmer, which is owned by 20% of these players.

Chasers also seem not to have any understanding of individuality and chase after what is popular: a whole 40% of them own a Silver Arrow. In second place, only 12% of Chasers own a Moontrimmer.

As for the Keepers, the podium is being kept short due to a certain Keeper having a spending problem and being a compulsive buyer. However, it can still be said that 23% of Keepers own a Silver Arrow.

Desired Brooms

Now for the important part, though it is way less telling due to a lack of participation—too many of our sports friends seem to be busy catching up on their studies for the exam phase, or something like that. However, let us not waste time talking about the boring stuff. Here are the results to the inquiry about which broom is most desired and on everyone’s wish list for their next big purchase!

Across broom-related sports, the winner happens to be the Starsweeper XXI, desired by a whole 29% of participating Quidditch players and broom racers. It is followed closely by 18% desiring the Varápidos and Oakshaft 79.

In broom racing itself a whole 62% wish to call the Starsweeper XXI their own, and in second place, with 16%, is the Autumn Cruise.

This leaves us with Quidditch, the superior sport. 33% of participating Quidditch players desire the Oakshaft 79. Meanwhile, 27% of Quidditch players want the Varápidos, known for allowing quite a few sneaky manoeuvres.


Hogwarts, How Many Languages Do You Speak?
by Archer Duncan

Given its diversity, Hogwarts is home to many cultures and many languages. Today, I'll share and reflect upon some insight I received from the students of Hogwarts.

First, we travel to East Asia, where Meiyu Xiang, Evpraksiya Vinogradova, Ara Villa, and Eonaria Kabukimono have a few words to say on Mandarin, Korean, and Japanese, three languages that are drastically different from English. The first three students, who all spoke Mandarin, commented on its difficulty, especially regarding the tonal system, which is difficult to perfect, and the character system, which is a hassle to learn. Although Evpraksiya had her own gripes, she pointed out that they allow for “more poetic interpretations”. Ara adds that while the characters look impossible (although beautiful in written calligraphy), the grammar is surprisingly manageable. She put it masterfully: “Mandarin feels like dancing between tones without tripping.” What I find fascinating, however, are Chinese idioms. They are more than just expressions but often have stories behind them, and I encourage you to read them. Ara gave the example of “画蛇添足” which means adding something unnecessary that ruins the result. In the story, a man finishes first in a drawing competition for snakes, and feeling it is not yet perfect, adds feet to it.

Meiyu and Ara, who also speak Korean, went on to praise the language, especially its Hangul character system for its simplicity and efficiency. In fact, as the former said: “Korean is far easier, emphasising enunciation to convey emotion and meaning.” Ara also called the language a playful puzzle and beautifully logical, saying the writing system can be learnt in just a few days. Meiyu also shared the idiom, “호랑이에게 물려가도 정신만 차리면 산다”, which means “even if you’re bitten by a tiger, you’ll live if you come to your senses”, a mantra that taught her to keep calm in times of despair. Ara added to this with, “공자 앞에서 문자 쓴다”, which means “to write characters in front of a prince” or to teach someone who already knows more than you.

Eonaria, on the other hand, speaks Japanese and introduced me to an idiom of her own: “ふくすいぼんにかえらず”, or “spilt water cannot be put back”, similar to “there's no use crying over spilt milk”. She reflected on how the writing can be easily distinguished, but sometimes difficult to remember.

Since we are already in Asia, let’s take a short stop with Avis Marlong, who introduced me to the quirks of her native tongue, Nepali. While she is illiterate in the language, it is an important way she communicates with her family, and it connects her to delicious dishes. However, not being able to write in the complicated system is not an issue for her, since she was most enthusiastic for how the language sounded. One particular feature that urged me to learn more about this language we may not be so familiar with was the intriguing idiom she shared, “Hatti ayo, hatti ayo, ghamle pet dukhyo!” It translates to “The elephant came, the elephant came, the sun gave me a stomachache”, and as Avis explained herself, “It means sort of making a huge deal—like an elephant coming—out of something sort of silly and not important.”

Next, we stay close to home in the British Isles as I review the input from Colin McCoire. Colin speaks both Scots and Gaelic. He was quite excitable when talking about his favourite expression in Scots: houd yer whisht, which is along the lines of “shut up”. He also talked about how he speaks it quite often. Unlike Brookline, however, he is more of a pessimist when it comes to Gaelic, and while he is grateful to have Gaelic still spoken in his area, he reckoned it would fade with time, especially since he finds Scots easier. As a Gaelic learner, I find the language quite fascinating and hope to prove that wrong. The word he introduced me to, Seanmamó, seems to mean great-great-great-great-grandmother. If that is not interesting, I don’t know what is.

Above are my conclusions from my research on the multilingual side of Hogwarts. I will always urge you to pick up a new language—perhaps you can even join me in the acquisition of Latin and Scottish Gaelic. Not only can you foster important skills, but you can also learn about culture and history. I am certain our local librarian would love to help you find resources. Due to the sheer number of languages spoken by our community, I have split this article into multiple parts. Stay tuned for the next issue for the second, in which we will dive into the three main language groups of Europe and much more!


Cats vs Half-Crups: The Ultimate Showdown
by Alyss Gilmour

As a half-blood or Muggle-born, you might have been asked “cats or dogs?” multiple times before, often ending with exaggerated gasps upon hearing the word, “cat”. This favouritism in the Muggle world is a widespread phenomenon that is rather startling when compared to the wizarding perspective. Perhaps I am biased, as I believe the answer to be quite clear. But let us first begin with the Muggle facts.

In the US, mainland China, and the UK, dogs are the most common pets. The US and China have a gap of nearly 30% between owners, with dogs being the favourite. The UK has these numbers down to 20%, and Russia has increasingly more felines as pets over their canine counterparts. These statistics show that the majority of the Muggle world has fallen into the trap of puppy eyes and boundless energy over quiet affection and low maintenance.

Now, the wizarding world appears to have a different perspective, with our very own Hogwarts being a prime example. The most common pets at Hogwarts are owls and… cats. This is shown just by observing the animals that grace the ground beneath our feet, and in this case above our heads. Let’s look at the numbers. As of writing this, there are nine varieties of owls allowed at Hogwarts. Beating even that, there are eleven varieties of cats that are permitted at Hogwarts as pets. How many varieties of Half-Crup, the wizarding counterpart to dogs, are there? There is only one singular breed: the Wexford Half-Crup.

Why might this disparity between the two exist, or even be necessary? Allow me to explain the reasoning. The Half-Crup, a wizard-bred dog, was developed only recently. Full Crups tend to be aggressive towards Muggles and Squibs. There was a desire for a friendly and loyal companion, a pet willing to cuddle with you, lick your face, and wag their forked tail when showing their happiness. The breed sold in the Magical Menagerie was developed and bred by the lovely Ms Wexford. Half-Crups were an amazing breakthrough, and many can be happy to have these furry friends to accompany them throughout their journey at Hogwarts. But what would put the Half-Crup above the competition? They certainly display admirable qualities, such as loyalty, enthusiasm, and limitless entertainment. Is this different from cats?

Cats are better known as withdrawn and even mean at times, even in the Muggle world, but wizarding folk seem to have a different take. This is very much present at the Magical Menagerie; their cats are noted to be “very social and affectionate with a love of play”, and are “excellent companions if you treat them well”. This helps with dispelling these stereotypes. Cats are excellent pets provided they’re given the care they deserve. Cats tend to express love through purrs and head bunting; although this attention may sometimes be more widespread than that of a Half-Crup, it makes it even more special when one can hold them like a newborn, or pet them from the tips of their ears to the ends of their tails.

It appears cats as well as Half-Crups would make wonderful companions due to their friendly natures and varying personalities, regardless of species. Ultimately, I hope that you make the best choice for you. Of course, in my eyes, cats are the better choice. I mean, who wouldn’t want a pet willing to perch on your shoulder and purr while you scratch their chin? But let me ask you, dear reader: Which do you believe is better—cats or Half-Crups?


Where Are They Now?: Checking in on the Class of 2024
by Aly Salinger

Before graduating and subsequently abandoning us here at the Headliner, Serena Towers wrote about five of her fellow seventh years’ plans after Hogwarts. We found some of them and asked how their best-laid plans were going…

Xailah Alptraum-Leveret (née Alptraum)
Xailah originally said her biggest goal was to travel. This dream is being fulfilled with her new husband; her favourite destination was “a quaint little beach near Cornwall” (although she wasn’t fond of the sand). See, dreams can come true!

Xailah claimed to miss Hogwarts’s architecture and broom racing most. She also noted how her goals have shifted: “My post-Hogwarts experience has been a big adjustment for me… I do have a few exciting smaller goals: remodeling one of the spare rooms, and finishing making a blanket I started back in February.” It sounds like married life is going well for her!

Howard White
Howard’s biggest goal was to study to become a ranger; he seems to have completed the first step: “I’ve been working at a library called Tatiana’s Tomes and Titles in Hogsmeade since I graduated and that’s given me plenty of time to do some extra studies.” He noted that his goals haven’t changed, though he dreams of having his own place to live.

When asked what he misses most about Hogwarts, Howard’s answer was easy: “The food! I’ve been living off of noodles and blood pops for the last year and what I wouldn’t do for another Hogwarts feast!” Pro tip: learn to cook with our Magical & Muggle Meals series before you graduate!

Frost Cira
Frost dreamed of becoming a Healer or Mediwizard but has taken a pause: “I actually decided to take a year to help my family first, but although my path isn’t exactly going as planned, I have no intention of giving up. I plan on working as a trainee Healer this coming year, actually! I’d say that’s my biggest goal now.” Life might not go as intended, but like Frost, you’ll get back on track!

She also expressed she misses seeing her friends, saying travelling to see them is a bit “silly”. Treasure your friendships while you can!

Ami Procoppio
Ami was the least specific of our graduates last year, giving many goals including travel, Quidditch, music, and even tattooing. Life seems amazing for her: “I’m a Holyhead Harpy now, which is awesome, so travel has definitely been a big part of that when we play away games. Haven’t joined a band, unfortunately, and certainly haven’t done any tattoos, but I’ve got a whole bunch now!”

After achieving her goals, she claims her new ones are more realistic: “I’d like for Cecily and I to find a slightly nicer apartment, definitely would like to get off the bench a bit more for the Harpies, and maybe spend more time with my family.” She also agreed with Howard in missing Hogwarts’ food the most!

Finally, each alumnus shared some advice for those graduating this June:

“Take the chance. You know the one. A bird will never know flight until it takes a leap.” –Xailah

“Stay focused on your goals like I did and you just kind of settle right into it. The nerves settle down after a while. Find something you enjoy and go for it!” –Howard

“Don't forget to take a moment to enjoy some of it! There isn’t exactly a race. You will get to your goals eventually.” –Frost

“Between everything you’ve learned at Hogwarts, the strength of the character forged by the flames, and your friendships, you’re gonna be able to handle anything.” –Ami


Advice for the Youths
by Koko Riddle

As my final year at Hogwarts comes to an end, I decided it might be prudent to write again. I could have written a goodbye letter—and in spirit, this is a goodbye letter. But I wanted to try something new.

I’ve been a member of the Headliner since 2019, and a student at Hogwarts since 2018, and if that means anything, it means that I have a lot of tips and tricks sitting around in my brain. Thus, while I could have just said goodbye, I think I would like to do something helpful with that goodbye. As such, I reached out to all of you to ask if you wanted any advice.

At any rate, here goes.

How hard were your N.E.W.T.s? What should I do during seventh year to study for them?

I took more N.E.W.T.s than I probably should have—my advice in that regard is to know your limits. I’m sure they went fine, obviously, as I could stand for no less than that, but I will say that, for me, Transfiguration was the hardest and Flying was the easiest. As for studying… don’t be afraid to try something new. Sometimes you might need to look at a problem from a different angle. And, while I’m at it… don’t be afraid to ask for help; you might need it.

I just wanted to ask how does it feel now that you're graduating?

It feels great.

I mean, a bit strange, sure. I’ll miss some people and certainly some routines. But I’m excited to go out in the real world.

I'm a first-year here and I just wanted to ask, are the O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s hard?

I didn’t have any issues with my O.W.L.s. However, I’d also really withdrawn in order to focus on classes, and I’d recommend not doing that. Your social life still matters even though you’re a student!

N.E.W.T.s, however… Those were a different story. They’re definitely not easy. You will need many doses of Invigoration Draught.

What would you suggest to a student who wants to get involved in Quidditch, but is scared to try out?

Do it anyway! The worst that can happen is that you have a great time at tryouts but ultimately don’t make the cut. But you’ll get a fun workout from the experience, and you might also make some friends!

I would suggest finding a decent broom beforehand, or otherwise getting up early to pick out and polish a school broom ahead of time. When I was younger, my go-to broom was a Nimbus 1700; they’re not too expensive but are definitely less rickety than the ones in the broom shed.

Is it worth it to pull an all-nighter?

No.

Do you know of any secrets in the castle?

There’s a door on the fifth floor—it’s rather small, and you’ll likely have to crawl to get inside. But it’s there, and if you go into it, there’s actually no floor. I think if you were to step off the threshold you might cease to exist…

Just kidding. There’s no such room.

But there are some rather friendly portraits on the fifth floor that will recount drama in exchange for a story. They’re always fun to talk to.

I hope some of that was helpful. At any rate, I’ll miss all of you—but you should all come see me play professional Quidditch!

Anyway, over and out!




How School House-Elves Polish and Party Over the Summer
by Simon Kincaid

Soon, July 1st will arrive, and the students and staff will say farewell to the castle for the summer—but the school will not be empty. Ghosts will roam the abandoned corridors, portraits will hang on quiet walls, and our staff of school house-elves will remain. During the summer, they will get their polish and party on!

When students and staff are away, the house-elves are still very active. They shift their focus from daily school support to deep cleaning, maintenance, and preparations for the next school year.

“Some call it cleaning. I call it castle-caring,” says Flicket, one of our dedicated elves. Deep cleaning consists of scrubbing every corner of the castle. They polish the suits of armor, portraits, and chandeliers, and wash the linens, curtains, and tapestries.

The elves also feel a deep sense of pride and purpose when it comes to repairs and maintenance. “Oh yes, sir, broken suits of armor and squeaky floorboards are most exciting! We patch, we polish, we make it good as new—sometimes better!” Bibble tells me. Fixing squeaky doors, broken tiles, and magical systems isn’t always an easy task. Frabble describes how last summer holiday, “I spent three whole days re-enchanting the enchanted broom cupboard. It kept spitting brooms at me, but I showed it who’s boss!”

In preparation for the next school year, the elves do kitchen work, preserving food stores, restocking pantry items, and updating recipes for the new term.

Our house-elves take great pride in their work and find joy in keeping our school in perfect condition. While they’re known for this tireless work ethic, there is still much fun to be had during the quieter summer months.

Wimlet tells of one tradition, the Sock Swap, where the elves trade or show off interesting socks they’ve found or been gifted over the last school year. “Oh, the Sock Swap is the highlight of our year! We line them all up in the kitchens—stripes, sparkles, even ones with tiny Hippogriffs. No two are the same and that’s the joy of it!” says Tibby.

With no picky students to feed, the elves conduct experimental cooking contests, where they try new magical recipes such as levitating cupcakes or pudding that hums lullabies. One summer, they created Chocolate Frogs shaped like professors.

I am told stories of stargazing in the Astronomy Tower, night picnics, and magical arts and crafts. Games of tag and hide and seek are played throughout our corridors.

They also hold two unique celebrations during the summer months. The Great Dusting Day is a traditional holiday in which they celebrate the halfway point of the summer cleanup. This celebration starts with a symbolic “first flick” of a feather duster and is followed by dance circles with magical cleaning tools, feasting on elf favourite treats, and races upon enchanted mop buckets. Wimlet, last year’s “first flicker”, says, “Me mam would’ve cried, she would. Said no elf from our cupboard line ever got the first flick. I practised for weeks!”

The highlight of their recreational summer is the Moonlight Mop Ball. The Great Hall is transformed into a glittering ballroom, and our elves, dressed in enchanted aprons that shimmer like stars, waltz as enchanted pots and pans provide their music. “It’s our thank-you to each other, for another year of keeping Hogwarts shining. It gets us hyped for a new year,” tells Mimsy.

Despite being humble and hardworking, these house-elves have rich lives and it’s lovely that they’re enjoying a little well-earned magic of their own.


Scandinavian Destinations for Summertime
by Archer Duncan

As the summer holiday is fast approaching, students must be hungry to get out of school. Once finally released from the bounds of this educational institution, don’t waste your newfound freedom rotting in bed. Instead, why not try travelling? Today, we will be focusing on Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. While Scandinavia is most notable for its bitterly low winter temperatures, it can be a beautiful retreat in the summertime, and it offers spectacular experiences, both rural and urban.

1. A Swedish Midsommar
Sweden is famous for its celebration of the Summer Solstice, also known as Midsummer or Midsommar (rest assured, not every pagan gathering is as portrayed in the cult classic film by the same name). Dalarna is the heartland of the traditional Swedish Midsommar, and travellers can expect folk music, maypole dances, traditional games, and a delicious variety of food. The best towns to celebrate the holiday include Rättvik, Leksand, and Mora. While you’re at it, why not head north to the Laplands and cities like Abisko to join Sami cultural events under the never-setting sun?

2. The Faroe Islands
One of the highlights of Scandinavian scenery—and with a perfect temperature thanks to its northern location—is the Faroe Islands. Its capital of Tórshavn is the place to start, and from there one can go to the main islands of Stremoy, Eysturoy, and Vágar, among others, which are all close in proximity. The views barely look real, with rocks that seem to be the carved doorways of giants and high-altitude lakes that flow via waterfalls into the ocean.

3. The Lofoten Islands
Carrying on with this theme, the Lofoten Islands are found in the northeast of Norway and are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. Notable sights include Å, the eastmost tip of the archipelagoes offering a sublime hike, as well as Rambergstranda and Skagsanden beach, and villages like Reine (as well as the mountain, Reinebringen) and Leknes. Fjord cruises are also a must for travellers here, and particularly good views can be found in Trollfjorden or Bergsjorden. They are perfect for road tripping through, and make sure to stop along the way for the views, a dip, and a summertime picnic.

4. City Hopping & Culture Trip
Cycle around Copenhagen or tour its canals with “hygge” cafes and art exhibitions, wander through Stockholm’s Gamla Stan and see the Vasa museum, or explore Oslo’s parks and Opera House—urban Scandinavia is just as stunning as its nature. Tromsø is less well known compared to the former three, but it’s still northern Norway’s largest city and home to a beautiful port. Stockholm has a marathon in early June, Oslo hosts the Øya festival in early August and the jazz festival in mid-August, and Denmark’s Smukfest enjoys the country’s “most beautiful music festival” in the Skanderbog forest.

5. Road Trips for the Family
This is a concept our Muggle-born or half-blood readers may be more familiar with. There are three routes I find especially scenic, and they are as follows. First is Norway’s Atlantic Road, which mainly involves driving through bridges connecting the scattered islands of the country’s ocean, featuring towns like Molde or Kristiansand along the way—perfect stops for a seafood snack. Second, Sweden’s Wilderness Road is a loop from and to Strömsund. Notable views include Stekenjokk Plateau and the lakes and rivers of Vilhelmina. Finally is a coastal road trip by Bohuslän, from Göteborg to Strömstad. Stops include Kosterhavet, Sweden’s first marine national park, and Grebbstad, a guest harbour famed for oysters.

Travel safely, and bon voyage.


No Need For Ducklifors: Celebrating International Rubber Ducky Day
Anonymous

The article was found not even in the Headliner office, hand-written on Muggle lined paper. It has since been put into type.

There are lots of frivolous, bombastic holidays in the world. Take International Talk Like a Pirate Day, for example, celebrated on the 19^th of September every year. Or even Alien Abduction Day, observed on March 20^th, for those of you who think Area 51 is the neatest thing ever.

But nothing compares to the whimsy of a day that's just for fun and joy, a day where the happy little squeaking of happy little ducks fills the happy little trees. You like ducks, don’t you, dear reader? The little waddlers, all sorts of them, from mallards to muscovies to mandarins? Yeah, me too. Which is why I wanted to introduce you to International Rubber Ducky Day, if you’ve not heard of it.

International Rubber Ducky Day is celebrated on July 18^th and is intended to spread the joy of rubber duckies to people all over the world—young and old, big and small. You don’t need to be a kid to love rubber ducks. Just like real ducks, they come in all shapes and sizes.

There are the classic rubber duckies, which, for those of you who aren’t aware, are yellow plastic toys that are often thought of as bathtime toys for Muggle children. If you squeeze them, they let out a cute little squeak. They usually have faces painted onto them, and, often, they have coloured bills like real ducks! But it doesn’t stop there.

There are glow-in-the-dark ducks, which I think are super cool! You leave them under a light for a couple of hours, and then you can turn off the lights and have a glowing duck. Who hasn’t wanted a glowing duck!?

There are mini ducks you can use as office decorations, and there are gigantic ducks you can use to prank your friends, or decorate your room. There are even rubber ducks with motorised mechanisms, where if you wind up a lever, they will run or swim, like real ducks!

But my favourites are the character ducks. You could get a duck that looks like Albert Einstein, with the hair and all! There are ducks styled like the King’s Guard, and even ducks that look like Spider-Man! I saw one that looked like a hot dog in a bun once. That was probably the most unique. But these can be combined with jumbo, mini, glow-in-the-dark, rainbow... every type of duck there is.

And, well, I guess you could get a rubber mallard, a rubber muscovy, or a rubber mandarin duck. But it's 100% up to you! And since the ducks are usually only around US$2.00, or £1.48, they're pretty affordable, so you could mix-and-match and buy as many as you'd like!

July 18^th is a day to celebrate the joy that the little things, like rubber ducks, give you—so go for it! Get ready for International Rubber Ducky Day, and buy a rubber duck today!


All the Craze for WORLD CHOCOLATE DAY
by Ruth Fairchild

For a world vibrant in taste and flavour, the realm of sugar and sweetness never fails to amaze. Considering the number of confectionery brands and chocolate consumers out there, chocolate is easily among the most popular sweets in the world. With this acclaim comes a whole day simply to celebrate the wonders of this delight: World Chocolate Day.

The existence of this day may come as a surprise, even to chocolate lovers, such as Jacob Harman, a sixth-year Gryffindor. He claims to have fallen in love with chocolate at the age of 9 from eating a Hershey’s Bar, made by the Muggle American confectionery company, Hershey’s. This was, as he put it, “the greatest sensation of taste and flavour that had ever entered my mouth; it seemed it would never end.” When he was told about World Chocolate Day, he was quite delighted and frankly eager to share some facts about chocolate. We will touch on these facts before proceeding to talk about the day itself.

The life of chocolate begins with the cacao bean, an ancient Mesoamerican plant. These beans are ground and roasted to become the treat that we consume. While the exact date of chocolate’s introduction is unknown, Europe was first introduced to it on July 7, 1550. Even then, it wasn’t until 1585 that the first official record of a shipment of cocoa beans to Europe was made. According to Jacob, the world’s very first chocolate factory was established in 1765 by James Baker and John Hanson. More than a century later, in 1894, Hershey’s was founded, which Jacob insists is the reason why chocolate is the way it is today. To the non-Muggle-born readers out there, perhaps someday you’ll get to have a taste of this ‘Hershey’s’ chocolate he keeps referencing. Spoiler alert: it is quite delicious.

With Europe’s first introduction to chocolate came World Chocolate Day, celebrated annually on July 7th. People from all around the globe use the occasion to honour chocolate in all its forms, be it rich, dark bars or creamy truffles, steaming mugs of hot chocolate, or even elaborate desserts. Of course, World Chocolate Day isn’t just about eating. It’s also about learning to appreciate the craft and culture behind chocolate making, and commemorating the history from cocoa bean to bar. There are several ways to celebrate such a momentous occasion. One could, for example, host small gatherings in their common rooms to share the variety of chocolate treats found at Honeydukes in Hogsmeade. These could include Chocolate Frogs, rochers, and maybe even some Muggle chocolate, if anyone can get their hands on it. Jacob himself didn’t hesitate for a moment to say that he’d celebrate the day by eating a bar of chocolate. After all, what better way is there to honour World Chocolate Day than to eat chocolate?


Confessions From the Owlery Wall
by Evpraksiya Vinogradova

As the school year begins to end, we pack our luggage, promise to stay in touch, and wave our goodbyes as we step onto the train. But one thing from the students remains at Hogwarts.

Hidden away in a place many pass without a second thought, a dimly lit chamber filled with the rustling of wings and the soft coo of owls—the Owlery—there are thousands of untaken letters that have remained abandoned on the floor by their writers or recipients. Some were meant to be messages of love, friendships to be mended, promises made under midnight skies, or doubts that were meant to stay private. Others may have fallen from owls’ beaks, gotten misplaced in a rush, or simply been forgotten in the chaos of the school year’s end. Unfortunately, for the sake of anonymity, these have their authors and recipients blacked out… though perhaps you, dear reader, could help us reunite the recipients with their letters.

Here’s a glimpse of what we found…

[1] — Folded in a piece of parchment, nearly worn through by nervous hands:

**“Dear █████,

I know you probably haven’t noticed me much this year, but we sit across from each other in Transfiguration! We haven’t really spoken except when we pass notes under the desks. I meant to tell you something back in December, you know, just before the holiday break? I meant to say… I think I’m falling for you. It scares me how much I care about you—you, who barely know me.

I tried a dozen times to find the courage to say it in person, but something always held me back. So instead, I’m letting these words fly on the wings of an owl, hopefully straight to you. Whatever your answer, whatever you feel, please know it’s sincere.

Yours,
█████”

——

[2] — Small, crumpled, with shaky handwriting:

**“█████,

I know you’re going back home soon and we might not see each other for a whole summer. I wanted you to know… I kept your quill when you dropped it in Potions class. It seemed silly to hang on to it, but it made me think of you, and made me happy on days when I felt unsure of myself.

I hope when we return in the fall, we can be friends—or perhaps become more. Until then, please stay safe and remember someone at Hogwarts is thinking of you.

Yours,
█████”

——

[3] — Written on notebook paper

**“To █████,

Alright, you sneaky Niffler, I know you took it.

Don’t try to pretend you have no idea what I’m talking about—the silver necklace with the little crescent moon charm. The very one I told you a thousand times NOT to borrow without asking (because you always ‘forget’ to put it back).

I’m not mad (well, not mad mad), but honestly, you’re the worst thief in the world. I found it sitting on your dresser this morning, not even hidden under socks or books. Nice try!

Consider this a friendly warning from your loving—and much more responsible—sister: I want it back by dinner… or I’m borrowing your favorite quill in return.

See you soon (with my necklace in hand),
█████”

Whether filled with love, regret, or annoyance, these messages have all found their way into the dusty corners of the Owlery. Though hardly heroic or epic, in these fragments, we glimpse the truths too often left unspoken, then tucked away in a justified silence. Perhaps, as the trains whistle and trunks close, students may yet receive these letters.


Magical & Muggle Meals: Forgetfulness Potion Ice Cream
by Aly Salinger

Have you ever been so sad, embarrassed, or some portmanteau of the two that you wish you could just forget it all? Have you tried to drown your sorrows in a pint, not of butterbeer, but of refreshing, flavourful ice cream? Have you wondered what would happen if you could combine the forgetting and the flavour? Look no further: you can make ice cream with Forgetfulness Potion!

Normally, adding extra liquids to an ice cream recipe is a bad idea, but it turns out that adding this particular potion to a batch of creamy cold pudding won’t have any effect on its composition. It’s like the ice cream forgets the potion is even there… and with the flavouring of cherries and cheesecake masking the taste, you will, too!

Honestly, that’s the only issue: you might forget the sweet treat has its extra ingredient… or that you’ve had some already, and you might go back for more! We recommend leaving a note for yourself detailing its ingredients, when you had the ice cream and how much, and also a nice compliment for yourself. Merlin knows that if you’re eating this, you might need one!


Ingredients:

• 1 pound cherries
• ⅓ cup sugar from a Sugar Shrub (*granulated sugar)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 8 ounces creamed dragon cheese (*cream cheese)
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk**
• 1 ½ cups heavy dragon cream (*heavy cream)
• 1 vial Forgetfulness Potion***
• Several graham crackers

*Muggle alternative.
**This must be cow—sweetened condensed dragon milk is too thick!
***If you are attempting to make the Muggle version, omit this ingredient altogether.

Directions:

1. Using the Reductor Curse (*back of a spoon), crush graham crackers into crumbs; also, carefully remove pits from cherries. For fun, try flicking pits at Headmaster Lear during the next feast without getting caught.
2. Combine cornstarch and sugar; stir thoroughly. Add to a large cauldron on medium heat, then add cherries and lemon juice.
3. Continue to stir until the mixture begins to double bubble, toil and trouble, then reduce the heat to a low simmer and keep stirring for a few minutes until the mixture thickens.
4. Take cherry mixture off the heat and allow to fully cool.
5. With your wand (*electric mixer), beat creamed dragon cheese in a small cauldron until it is smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk and Forgetfulness Potion (*remember to omit potion if you are making it non-magically) and repeat the beat until smooth and fully combined.
6. In another cauldron, whip heavy dragon cream until stiff peaks form (for reference on stiff peaks, see the Meringues article from December). Fold the stiff peaks into the creamed dragon cheese mixture, being very gentle so as to not un-whip the cream.
7. Take ¾ cup of cooled cherry mixture and blend with your wand (*blender) until completely smooth. The remainder of this mixture can go in a pie!
8. Add ½ of blended cherry mixture and ½ of crushed graham crackers into the cream mixture. Stir gently to combine.
9. Pour cream mixture into a large glass pan and add rest of blended cherry mixture and crushed graham crackers on top. Swirl with your wand tip to make it pretty!
10. Freeze pan and contents with a Freezing Spell (*freezer for a minimum of 6 hours, or longer if you want a harder scoop). Scoop, enjoy, and remember to leave yourself a note saying you’ve already had some, lest you forget and go back for more…

The Most Hidden Secrets
by Anonymous

Professor Makaio Kāne’s Mysterious Chicken
Sources say the feathery menace that the Transfiguration professor keeps hidden in the Forbidden Forest isn’t just poultry. Whispers spreading through the castle suggest it’s a transfigured Dark wizard that Professor Kāne kept as a prize from his old days as an Auror. Remember to maintain your best behaviour in his class—one can never know when rumours are true.

Desislava Nenovsky — How Deep Does She Dive?
Mermaids have always been reclusive creatures, but Professor Nenovsky seems to have an unnatural kinship with them. Spending more time underwater than on land, is the Divination professor a half-mermaid herself, or is she simply trying to avoid her students? Only the lake truly knows her deepest secrets.

A Vampire Amongst Us
Why does Professor Samuel Sauber avoid garlic bread at every meal? Why is his presence so cold? His pale skin clearly says that he has been avoiding sunlight or any source of warmth at all. Honestly, we’re not saying Professor Sauber is a vampire... but his bat wing collection is suspiciously off-brand.

Love Triangle of the Century
Rumours say that Melisande Lennox and Octavius ​​Baird were once engaged. Several witnesses claim to have seen them arguing like a couple who’ve already exchanged vows. But wait, there’s more. Ruckus Weems recently “just happened” to be reassigned to outdoor duties as the new Flying professor. Sources say it’s because he couldn’t stop staring at Professor Lennox during his days as a caretaker, distracting him from his assignments. The lingering stares. The haunted sighs. The tension could light a campfire.

Leonardo Chiadovini’s Prediction
We’d slander Mr Chiadovini here, but honestly, he does a pretty good job of it himself. Leonardo Chiadovini, former Hogwarts Astronomy professor and part-time Seer, was last seen at the Hog’s Head, loudly predicting a “stellar conjunction of cosmic proportions” as he tried to exit through what he claimed was a portal to the Department of Mysteries. Unfortunately, it was just the cleaning supplies cupboard.

Serena Towers: Fallen & Forgotten?
Former Hufflepuff student and broom racer, Serena Towers, was recently spotted dining alone for over an hour. One onlooker claims it was a blind date gone wrong. What happened? Was it her pointy ears? Have they also heard the recent allegations that her family disowned her? It’s understood that Serena Towers has stopped attending fancy pureblood gatherings and dwelling at Towers Manor. She’s now seen living with roommates, going from riches to rags…

Arjan: Heartthrob or Heartbreaker?
The Oberois are supposedly searching for a proper match for their precious son, but Arjan seems more interested in snogging and flirting with a different person at every public appearance. Moreover, is it possible for any athlete to have that many muscles without taking something? Is he shamefully cheating? Or is it just blessed genetics?

The Toussaint-Vorozheykin Secret Union
The new CoMC professor is suspiciously shiny with a ring they won’t talk about, and Director Vorozheykin was seen at the Toussaint family cookout… without a diplomatic reason. Marriage? A forbidden romance? Why is it a secret? Does it involve the recent rumours about Headmaster Vorozheykin? Doubts have arisen about Aulis being a Seer: is he truly gifted or just really good at guessing? When pressed for a prediction last week, he just said, “You’ll find out soon,” and disappeared. Coincidence or cover-up?

Murder, He Wrote (or Maybe Committed)
Let’s not forget the most hushed hush-hush tale of all. Lawrence Maynard, Tenūsa’s headmaster, left school at 17 under unknown circumstances after a classmate mysteriously vanished. No charges were ever filed, but some say the ghosts in the library still whisper that name.


The Triptych of Tartt
by Archer Duncan

After finishing The Little Friend recently, I have had a taste of three of Donna Tartt’s novels. The author is renowned for her contributions to literary fiction, including the modern classics The Goldfinch and The Secret History. Her books have been described as enthralling, dark, and haunting, so today, I will dive into which one would be perfectly suited for you.

The Secret History:
Tartt’s most famous work, The Secret History, rose to vitality when it pioneered the “dark academia” aesthetic. This book, however, serves as a cautionary tale to those longing after a life of brooding in the name of beauty. The novel captures the mental taxes of murder and how the illusions of perfection disintegrate. My favourite aspect of this book is how we follow the story in the mind of young Richard Papen, clad in rose-coloured glasses. As he idolises the toxic friend group who would go on to become murderers and accomplices, part of the reader does too.

This book is perfect for those who want a riveting journey in the surreal psyche and for those seeking a “whydunit” mystery instead of a traditional “whodunit.” It is something that should be read and reread, to experience it first like Papen and then watch the disaster unfold.

The Little Friend:
The Little Friend lacks any grand scheme, following twelve-year-old Harriet Dufresnes as she futilely tries to find the murderer of her brother who was killed more than a decade earlier. A representation of the hazes of childhood, it is told from multiple perspectives, following her and her friends as they weave through life as kids. “The journey, not the destination” is most important—after all the trouble Harriet goes through, spoiler alert, her brother’s murder still remains a mystery. And what a journey! Tartt certainly offers fantastic views on the hike through this book.

The Little Friend is an immersive opportunity for readers to experience the Mississippi heat—this book fosters paranoia about the South’s gnats and snakes. It is a fever dream induced by the sweltering summer, seen through the eyes of a child who is too smart for her own good yet barely understands the workings of the world. Everything feels distilled by the heat waves, and the world is seen through a retro TV*.

The Goldfinch:
The timeline of this novel makes it different. Rather than focus on a surreal period of the characters’ lives, this book stretches out as it follows the narrator, Theo Decker, for much longer. The Goldfinch is a depiction of an adolescent’s troubles leading into adulthood, brimming with angst from the experience of loss and grief and following the “teenage dirtbag” trope as Decker befriends questionable people. It is a beautiful portrayal of growing up, treating life as real and at times terrible, candidly straying from The Secret History’s romanticised portrayal.

This book is well-suited for a reader who enjoys coming of age. If you adore character studies focusing on development through a character’s entire life, this is for you! Considering it centres on a painting and how it haunts the narrator, it may also interest the artistic souls among us.

I hope this encourages you to read some of Tartt’s prose, and while she is yet to be available in magical libraries, I have copies you may borrow.

*Note from the editors: For those of you who are unaware, a “TV” is a Muggle box with a window, in which you can watch tiny people do things!


The Editor-in-Chief’s Goodbye
by Ruby Cazares

It’s been a long time since I’ve written an article—the last time my writing was published in the Headliner was September 2023, back in issue #27. Unfortunately, this isn’t so much an article as a goodbye letter.

I joined the Headliner in September 2019, at the beginning of my second year. I was only twelve then, and I had never participated in anything similar before. I certainly had no clue that I would stick with it for the next almost six years. Back then, Alexx was the Editor-in-Chief—the first of three I worked alongside before I took on that role myself. In July 2023, I had left my previous positions in order to become Secretary, with Delilah as the Editor-in-Chief. When she graduated in 2024, I replaced her. She wrote a goodbye letter at the time, and now here I am doing the same thing a year later.

The first Headliner issue I contributed to was issue #3, published in October 2019. I have thus seen the Headliner through forty whole issues, playing various different roles over the years—all of which I enjoyed immensely. It’s been an honour to see the team grow and evolve over my time here, just as I have grown from a preteen to an adult. Since I’ve more or less aged alongside the Headliner, the idea of leaving is very bittersweet. I am excited to move onto new things and greater possibilities, although it is sad to leave behind this portion of my life that has been consistent for so many years. I am grateful for all of the experience I have gained and the memories I have made in that time.

As Koko and I both have to leave now, I have no clue who the next Editor-in-Chief will be. However, I know that we have quite a capable team currently, so I have faith that they will continue to thrive. Please keep reading and engaging with your fellow students, whether you’re a member of the Headliner team or not. The pursuit of truth and connection is a noble one that I hope I have led you well in.

With that, although I must bid you all farewell, I wish you the best of luck moving forward. Goodbye, Hogwarts Headliner. It’s been a pleasure.

Hogwarts: A Survival Guide, Part 1 - Do As I Say, Not As I Do
by Matthew Campbell

To paraphrase a quote from a favourite Muggle book (Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan):
You may laugh at the brazen nature of such editorialising, but Hogwarts isn’t the cosy haven the abundance of cute pets and inviting common rooms might suggest.

For some of us, Hogwarts is a place where almost anything can happen—and if you're me, most of those things tend to lean towards the negative.

The wizarding world is a place of chaos. While that chaos can sometimes give rise to life-altering beauty and moments of magic, it always comes at a cost. For all the witches and wizards still reading, I urge you to keep to yourself and find a place as far from trouble as possible.

But if you’re anything like me, trouble finds you whether you want it to or not. So, for the unlucky few who can’t seem to dodge destiny’s hit list, I implore you: proceed with caution. And if you can’t manage that, then at the very least, learn from my mistakes.

To understand my failures, we must examine the greatest of them all. Once you know my history, you’ll understand where my inability to steer clear of trouble truly comes from.

Unlike the fairy tales of childhood glee, my misery didn’t end with a kiss; no, it began with one. What that kiss meant, or didn’t mean, I’ll leave open to interpretation—but it marked the moment everything started to go wrong.

The infamous S.N.O.G. (Slytherin’s Night of Gentlemen) party of 1 February was equal parts naivety and idiocy. Dreamt up by Colin McCoire, Prat Pass, and yours truly, it began as a lonely boy’s hope for friendship—but quickly spiralled into bitter chaos.

Some of you may have escaped the whispers that haunted me through the halls in the aftermath. But regardless of personal bias, I am reclaiming the narrative—as a tool of guidance—so that no one else has to face these struggles.

The party was meant to be a night of debauchery and education: a study session in the art of romance (how to snog) before we visited the country of love for a foreign rendezvous.

And yet, mischief wasn’t the only thing afoot. Something far more malicious stirred beneath the surface. With no one but myself to blame, I was branded a pariah.

For weeks, whispers of my ‘poisoning nature’ swirled through the halls. People claimed the cider I’d smuggled into the S.N.O.G. party was dangerous—possibly toxic. And while I won’t deny it was suspicious, I’ll still plead my innocence.

My voice went unheard amid the torment of those who suffered vivid nightmares come to life. Hallucinations dug deep into their psyches, unearthing the deepest pain—and cutting deeper still.

To those I hurt that night, I apologise again. It was through no choice of my own. Believe me or not, there are nightmares in this school—real ones that prey on the weak and make you question the very nature of yourself. That night, one such danger targeted us all. To what end? We still don’t know.

Murderous, obsessive dolls that whisper your name; shadow spiders that crawl beneath your skin and feed on fear; and too many rumours of hag incidents to list—these are not tales for bedtime.

Hogwarts might well break tradition and rebrand its name to reflect the horrors it conceals. I say nay to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Call it, instead, Hogwarts School of Treachery and Tribulations.

If I’ve managed to fill you with dread, then good—this article has done its job, and more will follow. There are still countless mistakes, innumerable dangers, and hundreds of stories that lurk within these walls—waiting to be revealed and learned from.

As a Muggle-born, I know I’ll continue to suffer from my ignorance, through no fault of my own, but I’ll be damned if I let that ignorance persist. If Hogwarts won’t teach you what not to do, then I will.

So if you want to stay safe, be prudent and heed my advice.

If not—well, to quote that same book: “Don’t say I didn’t warn you.”


Back to School: TIPS FOR ALL (ft. Koko Riddle)
by Ruth Fairchild

The summer holidays were refreshing and much needed for all of us! It’s good to have you back, or for many of you, welcome to Hogwarts! To ensure a smooth transition into life as a Hogwarts student, I called over Koko Riddle, a graduate from ‘25, to share tips and tricks for surviving seven years at this school. She was a very kind person to work with, and I appreciate her for taking the time to advise all of you dear readers!

First years—don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! You have to understand that many are also experiencing everything for the first time. As Koko put it, “Even if you're scared, chances are, you’ll find someone just as scared as you”—I wholeheartedly agree! By putting my best foot forward and trying new things, I’ve met many wonderful people, and going through the journey together has made me realise I’m not alone. Don’t worry much about homework; “professors exist to ensure you succeed.” Please also ensure that you adhere to the rules. Koko said, quite ambiguously, “If you're getting to school and you’re wondering why the curfew is so early, I would not recommend finding out the hard way.”

Second years! Time passed so fast, and suddenly you’ve grown into the soles of a second year. You’re no longer the youngest ones in the school—and yet, you realise there are things you haven’t tried and yearn to experience! Once you’ve gotten settled in, try out for some sports! Koko insisted that it’s super fun, and the “worst that can happen is you have to try again.” She failed to mention the possible injuries you may sustain, but let’s continue looking at the bright side.

As third years, you can take Divination, Muggle Studies, Study of Ancient Runes, and Care of Magical Creatures in addition to the original curriculum. Koko admitted to having tried to take every single class she possibly could, and warns that it’s not a good idea. “Listen to yourself and know your limits,” she said, smiling. “But above all, have fun.” Leave time for other things, such as getting involved around the castle. Koko recommended signing up for the Headliner as this was one of the “most rewarding aspects of [her] Hogwarts career.” If you are a stickler for rules, the role of a prefect might be fun. (“I wouldn’t recommend it if you’re a bit more of a scoundrel—you know who you are.”)

“In the middle of the pack” is what Koko labelled fourth years: “except the thing is, you’re not a forgotten middle child. You are a middle child stretched in all directions. You’ll be lost in the sea of exam prep, looking up to those older than you and asking them for help. You’ll want to improve in your sport. But then those younger than you will feel the same, and you will be the one they look up to since you’re more approachable than a seventh year. Embrace it—you might make some surprising friends, but even if you don’t, you'll still learn more than you would have otherwise.” Look out for more roles, make sure not to slack off in academics, especially before O.W.L. and N.E.W.T. preparations. Don’t cram, spread out the preparation. While you might still get all Os, it’s not worth the sacrifice to your social life.

Fifth years are now “officially old… congratulations… Expect to be respected.” With the year comes O.W.L.s, and with this comes studying. “Especially with the subjects you’re bad at,” said Koko, “but don’t discount your best.” O.W.L.s will be a review of everything you’ve learnt since the beginning, and so it’s best to be prepared. Likewise, for sixth years—this isn’t a year off from studying. “Enjoy yourself, but go all-in. You only have two more years to do so.” You are officially the second-oldest of our whole cohort, in which case, you will be a mentor to some. “Act like it,” Koko added. You’re not at the top of the food chain quite yet, so the pressure can abate… only a bit.

Lastly, seventh years. “You’re old. Actually, properly old.” Be responsible, make good decisions, and know your limits. Despite the stress of N.E.W.T.s, be sure to have fun since it’ll only last for so long. Time passes quickly, and before you know it, you’ll be walking across the stage. Koko describes the occasion as emotional and overwhelming. There are so many things to come after graduation (“super-secret… I’m sworn to silence”) that you’ll just have to find out for yourself. Oh, and you won’t trip! When asked why Koko added that, Koko replied, “I don’t know where that idea comes from.”


Opinion: Why First Years Make the Best Bosses
by Aly Salinger

With the recent announcement of two Slytherin firsties winning high roles here at the Headliner, there now flutter rumours challenging these kiddos’ ability to do their newfound jobs. First of all, how dare you defy our benevolent leaders when they have so clearly earned their roles? (Wow, sarcasm really doesn’t translate in print news.) But secondly, and most importantly, it’s not necessarily about the best candidate so much as it is about how their inexperience actually translates to being excellent bosses. Allow me to explain both why our new staff think they deserve their jobs and why they were truly the right picks.

First up is our new Editor-in-Chief, taking over from tenured Ruby Cazares, whose generally scary presence and ability to pick out an incorrectly placed comma from the other side of the Headliner offices made her particularly well-suited to leading. In her place comes decidedly less threatening and even less grammar-oriented first year Silas Norwood.

Despite the various comments suggesting that his naiveté makes him unfit to serve, Norwood doesn’t let anything get to him, purporting a candidly self-assured attitude around the office. We asked him why he deserved the position—you know, journalistic curiosity and all—and he simply responded, “Uh… why not? I deserve it.” As to exactly why he deserves it, we’re still unsure. Similarly, Norwood had only this to say concerning his haters: “They can [censored]. If they have a problem with it, that’s just too [censored] bad.”

Perhaps more agreeable, but no more qualified, is first year Slytherin Livia Machavariani, whose surname is equivalent to a father’s sneeze in length and complexity. Machavariani certainly has more enthusiasm for the Headliner, but she also uses thrice the amount of words a normal person would to answer questions. When asked why she deserves to get the Secretary position from former Slytherin and dear friend Koko Riddle, she responded: “Unlike most students, a hallmark of mine is my organisational ability and maturity. Some would see the position of Secretary as a chore. I see it as something I will thrive in, as enforcing order and deadlines sounds enjoyable. I assure you, all at the Headliner will be spectacularly pleased with the quality of my work.” See what I mean?

Now that we’ve met our new bosses, let me tell you about the lows/highs of having them technically be in charge of me (who, I might remind you, is six years older and much wiser and more experienced than them). The biggest con: they just don’t get along. I hate to air out our dirty laundry, but honestly, they don’t hide their mutual dislike. There’s been more bickering in the Headliner office in the last month than there has ever been during my tenure here. I believe it’s best summed up by Machavariani’s response to her naysayers (and Norwood): “For the most part, the naysayers are correct. I have, quite horribly, been unfortunate enough to make the acquaintance of Mr Silas Norwood, who appears to be our new Editor-in-Chief. I hope he performs better than I expect. However, not all first years are as delinquent and crass as he is—myself included, of course. Given that, I would tell the 'naysayers' to give the rational and conscientious first years a chance—we will not disappoint.”

That’s yet to be determined, but let’s talk what is great about first years being in charge of Hogwarts’ only and arguably best publication—since, you know, that’s what was promised in the title. Not much comes to mind except for what we were told when Norwood and Machavariani were selected for their respective positions. First years don’t have as many examinations for which they need to study or other responsibilities, so they have more time for the Headliner. They also have more time left at Hogwarts than the rest of us, so they can be moulded into the best possible bosses over the course of seven years (no matter how shite they might be right now).

I, however, have another argument to add to the list: because Norwood and Machavariani are inexperienced and don’t know anything about what the Headliner was like beforehand, we can tell them anything they want and they’ll believe it’s true.

The entire staff orders catering from the Three Broomsticks whenever we have print night? It’s tradition to cast the Ears to Kumquats spell on anyone caught not listening to their team lead? We’ve invented our own punctuation called the Hogsmeade Comma? All instantly accepted. Truly, it’s easier to trick them than it is to trick someone who’s Confunded, which makes our lives a whole lot easier here at the Headliner.

Also, they’re quite easy to lock in closets when we don’t like them since they haven’t learned the Unlocking Charm yet. Just don’t tell Lear we’re doing that or we might get fired.


Beyond the Classroom: Professors
by Alphonse Toussaint

For most of the new and incoming first years, there is a fathomable intimidation stemming from the magnitude of the newness that comes with attending a new school, especially relating to a lack of familiarity with the Heads of Houses or faculty.

Luckily for us, I obtained the opportunity to interview a small handful of professors and prefects to get us started on this journey! In this particular article, we will focus on the kind professors who took time out of their busy schedules to chat: Samuel Sauber, Professor of Potions; Desislava Nenovsky, Professor of Divination; Maya Galim, Professor of Muggle Studies; and last but not least, Octavius Baird, Professor of History of Magic. Let’s dig in!

How long have you been a professor at Hogwarts?

Samuel Sauber: “It shall be three months on the 8th of August.”

Desislava Nenovsky: “Since April of this past school year.”

Maya Galim: “I have been a Professor of Muggle Studies since 2018. I'm the only long-tenured among all Professors!”

Octavius Baird: “I was the Astronomy Professor from April 2023 to December 2023, and returned as the Nurse in March, then officially became the History of Magic Professor in July.”

What initially drew you to teaching?

Samuel Sauber: “In truth, I grew disillusioned with adult mediocrity in my previous job. Children, at least, have immense potential for improvement. They're malleable, still capable of precision and brilliance. Adults in our world often rot in their comforts. Youth remains to be sharpened.”

Desislava Nenovsky: “I was not necessarily drawn to teaching per se, but I felt it to be a responsibility to teach the new generation of seers correctly.”

Maya Galim: “Before teaching, I was traveling the world, understanding culture. I realised that with all this knowledge of the Muggle world, it would be a perfect opportunity to share that in a teaching capacity.”

Octavius Baird: “I cannot say I came to teach a bunch of kids because 'they're so nice' when I have a son that causes mayhem wherever he goes. I came here to teach and work just to keep an eye on Clark, so hopefully he doesn't do anything that drains my bank account. Again.”

What is one thing you want students to know about you?

Samuel Sauber: “I neither welcome curiosity nor do I wish to involve myself in gossip. Whether I am a dhampir or not, as the rumors pertain, is irrelevant; I suggest all students and otherwise direct their questions as well as attention toward their studies instead of my anatomy or origin.”

Desislava Nenovsky: “I am very much an outdoorsy person. You will often find me somewhere around the Great Lake.”

Maya Galim: “I wear a red cloak every day. I hear the whispers around the corridor. It does get washed.”

Octavius Baird: “Break my lava lamps, and I will personally see to it that your head is turned into some form of skull cage. They're extremely hard to find at these Muggle artefact stores. I admire them so much. If you don't break them, then we will be best of friends and you will likely be passing my classes with straight Outstandings. Uhh, this is not one bloody thing about me, but I have six sons, four adopted.”

Beyond your required curriculum, what else do you wish to impart during your tenure?

Samuel Sauber: “The idea that arrogance is not confidence, and their self-doubt is not humility. Many tend to confuse the two. If I can teach them to wield self-awareness as precisely as their wands and their weapons of chaos, then I’ve done more than most wish.”

Desislava Nenovsky: “I wish to impart the knowledge that the Sight is not frightful. Do not be afraid of what the future holds nor how you experience it.”

Maya Galim: “We often grow up in a bubble that we become comfortable being in. In my curriculum and beyond, I want students to see what it's like outside of that bubble. Maybe they'll enjoy it, or maybe they won't and will revert to their magical bubble. But I hope that all students who take my class will have a better understanding of the world around them, and if the time comes that their comfort bubble pops, they're not in culture shock.”

Octavius Baird: “History's fun if you add some form of component that will make it fun. For me, or at least how my classes are going to be taught, music will be used, picking students at random will be done, and more time for practicing spells rather than focusing on theory or history will be prioritised. This is a magic school, and I would hate to be the professor that bores you.”


Suicide Prevention Month
by Archer Duncan

September is Suicide Prevention Month. According to the World Health Organisation, more than 720,000 people die of suicide annually, with it being the third leading cause of death for those aged 15-29. This is a crucial time to raise awareness and provide much-needed mental health support by fighting back against the stigma often surrounding this topic and helping those around us. It reminds us that the devastating results of suicide can be preventable, and everyone—whether students, professors, or family—can play a role in supporting those struggling.

It can be difficult to understand, and suicidal thoughts often have many factors leading up to them, like mental disorders, loneliness and isolation, and feelings of hopelessness, all of which contribute to emotional distress. Many do not truly wish to die but cannot see another way out of suffering. As a subject matter that can often be overwhelming, one important thing to remember is not to dehumanise people to just their self-destruction, but to see both their troubles and their humanity.

One of the biggest barriers to suicide prevention is its stigmatisation. Society can frame suicidal ideation as the fault of the sufferer, as something to “get over” or “smile through”. Talk of suicide may be dismissed as shameful rather than a call for help, and that is unacceptable. The Hogwarts community should foster an environment where students feel safe discussing their emotions without judgement. Their troubles should be treated with respect and support instead of being deemed taboo. For mental health issues, which can often be invisible, breaking the stigma is vital to encouraging those in pain to reach out for support.

The first step to action is noticing when something is wrong. Changes are often overlooked, but start with a friend skipping gatherings and socially withdrawing, especially from things they once enjoyed. They may find no interest in their passions and no hope in their life or future, paired with mood swings and classic depressive symptoms. More obvious are preparations of the deed itself, whether by self-harming, asking if others would miss them, or researching and planning suicide methods. If you notice any of these in yourself, you can always reach out for help, whether from a friend or a professional.

Suicide can be an especially difficult and heavy topic to discuss. Directly approaching with questions of suicide may be invasive; instead, try to create a safe environment first and allow the conversation to flow naturally. Some people prefer to talk, others prefer your input, others just silence; in any case, support is crucial, and that can start from just your presence. Always listen to what they have to say without judgement, invalidation, or pity. Pointing them towards professional help, like therapy, is also helpful. Sometimes, one grounding thing, no matter how small—it can be your voice or your hand on theirs or simply your shared breath—can make the difference between life and death, so don’t be a bystander. Your actions can go a long way, but keep in mind, if they are in crisis, always contact a trusted adult or emergency services immediately.

In times of distress, feeling as if existence is hopeless is completely valid and understandable. Find something in life to focus on, no matter how small. It can be your breath, your steps, the leaves on a tree, or a ripple in the Great Lake. Try to get your troubles out of your head by writing, crying, or athletic endeavours. Try to find other students and sit with them, even if you engage little. Even the presence of others can often prevent risky or self-harming behaviour. Distractions are not “running away from problems”, but a useful and valid way to distance yourself from negative and spiralling thoughts. It is true that these small anchors are only temporary. Coping doesn’t fix any pain in the snap of a finger, but it can alleviate or at least buy time until the worst of the wave passes.

If you feel like the world is drowning you with no opportunity to come up for breath, no one can promise you it will all be okay. Some of us are playing the marathon of life on hard mode—it’s alright to take it one step at a time, it’s alright to stop to catch your breath, and it’s alright to take water breaks along the way as long as you don’t give up in the middle. Unfortunately, it will be messy, but you’re allowed to do it messy, or do it angry, or do it scared, just know that you’re not doing it alone, and we are running beside you. You’ve already been strong, choosing to finish this article, and it may be the smallest thing to hold onto, but hold fast.


The International Day of Peace and Why It Matters
by Evpraksiya Vinogradova

Each year, on the 21st of September, the Muggle world observes the International Day of Peace. It’s a solemn and hopeful commemoration established by the United Nations in 1981. At first glance, it may seem distant from our day-to-day lives as students at Hogwarts—or irrelevant to British magical society at large. But I would argue, with the deepest sincerity, that peace is a notion no witch nor wizard can afford to dismiss—least of all in a time when the echoes of war still linger in castle stone and in survivor memory.

The International Day of Peace was established to allow time for nations, communities, and individuals to cease fire, remember acts of kindness, and reflect on how to create and preserve the harmony that has been hard-won. Muggles mark it with ceremonies, art, educational lessons, and silence—it’s a symbolic 24 hours where violence is rejected and dialogue is embraced. While to some it may appear rather idealistic or naive to expect violence to cease for a day, it is also a reminder of our capacity for restraint and reconciliation.

We who wield magic inherit a gift—and with it, a greater burden than those without. The wizarding world has known conflict far too intimately. Tales of the Goblin Rebellions, the Great Grindelwald Campaign, and the First and Second Wizarding Wars are etched not only into the curriculum of our History of Magic lessons, but into the everyday lives of those still living in the aftershocks. While much attention is often given to acts of bravery during these times, I believe we seldom pause to reflect on the cost of violence and the painstakingly thankless work of restoring peace afterward.

So, what does peace look like in our world? In practice, it is more than an absence of conflict. It isn’t merely the lack of duels in corridors or curses cast in the shadows. As António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, has said: “Peace is deliberate. Peace is a choice.” It lives in our actions, in our restraint, and in our ability to think and reason before we act.

This year’s theme, “Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the Global Goals,” resonates deeply. Though coined by Muggle institutions, its call reaches across magical boundaries. It reminds us that peace is not passive. It demands participation.

What actions, then, can we take?

At a global level, the Ministry of Magic could consider initiatives such as international educational exchanges or targeted support for communities still healing from magical conflict. The Department of Magical Games and Sports (known for uniting wizards across borders through the Triwizard Tournament, the Hexwizard Tournament, and the Quidditch World Cup) could spearhead efforts to foster intercultural cooperation among wizarding schools.

As magical students, our actions could begin on a smaller, more personal scale—starting with how we treat one another. Choosing not to mock someone’s accent, not to sneer at another’s robe, and not to assume a person’s worth based on their family name would be a meaningful start. The adage that “Words are the most powerful form of magic.” is a common one, and it’s something we should respect.

In a world so often fractured by fear and suspicion, peace can feel intangible. It is not always loud. It does not come with fanfare. Sometimes, it is simply a shared seat in the library between a Slytherin and a Hufflepuff. A returned quill. A moment of silence before an argument escalates. These small acts, though humble, are the magic of peace.

Cynicism is easy, and some will scoff and say true peace is unattainable—that our kind has always warred, and always will. But to those I say: even the most powerful spells begin with a single syllable. Peace is no different.

My hope is we make the International Day of Peace more than a passing date on the Muggle calendar. Let it be an opportunity for witches and wizards of all ages to reflect not only on history’s mistakes but on the kind of future we wish to inherit—and the kind we wish to leave behind.

As legacies of magic, we are taught to master the forces of the world—like fire, wind, transformation, and time. But perhaps the rarest and most noble art is that of learning to live with one another. Without fear. Without hatred.

This week, I encourage you—no matter your house, your heritage, or your history—to look someone in the eye and offer something true: understanding, perhaps. Or patience. Or simply peace.

After all, even in the midst of turmoil, the bravest thing we may ever do is choose to live gently.


Ten Things I Learned While Camping with Centaurs
by Simon Kincaid

Strong, fiercely intelligent, and a passion for Divination—these were my previous assumptions about centaurs from what I gathered amid my years at Hogwarts. I had never actually met one, not until I found myself invited—or rather expected—to join them for a night of camping when something went wrong during Portkey travel with my internship with St Mungos this summer.

Here are ten things I learned while camping with centaurs that won’t be found in any of the books in the school’s library:

1. Don’t expect common campfire foods.
You won’t find s’mores at a centaur gathering campfire, as I was quickly educated. Instead, you’ll find s’moats. Their version of this popular campfire snack involves oats, honey, and toasted mushrooms. Pretend to enjoy and chew slowly. In addition to s’moats, they were making a mushroom stew of wild mushrooms, had plenty of bowls of foraged nuts and berries to pass around, and were slow-roasting hearty root vegetables over the fire.

2. Brewers of calm.
Above the campfire hang cauldrons where centaurs expertly brew calming potions and draughts. Lavender sprigs, chamomile petals, valerian root, and many other ingredients make up these mixtures that simmer above the glowing embers of their campfire. While there, I had a shimmering purple one containing moonwort and silverleaf that tasted of whiskey and wild berries. It did wonders for invigorating one’s senses and delivering a deep calm through the body all at the same time.

3. They have musical jam sessions.
As night falls, the centaurs form drumming circles around the campfire to prepare for the night’s festivities. Using hollow logs with stretched animal hides, flutes made from reeds, and handheld harps, they fill the forest with music. These were the most common instruments, but if they hadn’t gotten any, a stomp of the hooves or a clap of your hands was sufficient.

“In this music, we find our strength and our peace. It is the 'heart of our herd,' singing into the night, and the sound carries our spirit across the stars,” one centaur had told me.

4. They have no camping chairs.
“Why sit when you have legs for miles?” I was told. There are no camping chairs around their campfire to offer comfy relaxation. You’ll find yourself propped up against a tree, or awkwardly perched on an uneven log or large mossy rock. I did find one fallen tree during my venture that reminded me of the one at the Great Lake.

The centaurs don’t nap or sleep standing up. They find nice spots on the forest floor. No one uses a tent either, at least not in this herd.

5. They’re surprisingly picky about firewood.
Back in my Muggle life, I was a proud member of the British Boy Scouts Association. We emphasised self-reliance, community service, and being well-versed in outdoor skills. You’ll find we have great knowledge in building shelters, managing campfire safety, orienteering, hiking, firecraft, cooking, knot-tying, and first aid. One of the first things we learned as young scouts was how to find good firewood—taking much into consideration where to look, how to assess quality, and more.

“Fallen oak. You must listen for the creak of the forest’s offerings. Let the trees decide what they are ready to give. Your bramble twigs may work well enough—if your fire needs no tales to burn,” I was told. For beings so deeply devoted to the art of Divination, such a statement might have been an insult.

6. They have a bizarre obsession with collecting shiny rocks.
Their rock piles look suspiciously like hidden treasure hoards.

7. They have ceremonial rituals before stargazing.
My group engaged in something they called 'Selene’s Gallop,' and described it as "the ancient rite to align their spirits with the dance of the stars, to deepen their sight and bind their fate to the cosmos."

8. Stars are their sacred teachers.
We might admire the constellations or learn about them in Astronomy, but centaurs study the stars to thoroughly predict future events and attempt to understand the balance of nature.

9. If you fall asleep watching the stars, they’ll gently nudge you awake.
They’ll make statements such as, “You don’t want to miss the rise of the Celestial Stallion.”

10. They bathe together every morning.
After a round of morning meditation and aligning themselves with nature, the centaurs take to the flowing forest river for morning cleansing. I, too, am all about hygiene, so I went to join when they stopped me, reminding me it wasn’t a royal bathhouse and I needed to ditch the fabric of my clothes. “The forest doesn’t care, and neither do we,” I was told upon entering the water, and was provided with a handful of river moss.


2025 Summer Camp: Students’ Perspective
by Ruth Fairchild

The annual summer camp was jam-packed with new experiences and opportunities to mingle with students from international schools beyond Hogwarts. Upon arrival, we were introduced to the organisers: Dealla Prince, Pericles Dralt, Evelynn Decipio, Damien Dragonclaw, and Phoenix Zhang.

Seventh year Dealla Prince, first seen flitting around the Arts and Booth Expo, was no doubt leading the event. When asked how she found the camp so far, she happily replied, “Best summer camp ever” before chuckling, “Although I might be biased on that. I adore the theme we chose, and between showcasing your talents at the booth expo, playing carnival games, the petting zoo, and blind date night at the Amortunnel, I think we offered something for everyone.”

The Expo proved a highlight, with many students running booths. Irina Liliya Zvereva, a third year from Koldovstoretz, shared: “[The camp was] a good opportunity to get away from my parents and my homesick life.” After a momentary pause, she added, “So I especially looked forward to it.”

Another crowd favourite was the Granian Derby. Evelynn Decipio had been handing out tickets for stylish hats that students brought along. The seventh year was said to have her own derby nest with a dove!

“I will admit, I was rather partial to the Granian Derby, given that I was primarily partnered for its organisation… I do not imagine most of us will have another such intimate opportunity to observe a race so close at hand. And for all of those who showed interest in advertising and reached out to our student body about career opportunities...I was truly grateful.” When asked about the camp’s success, Evelynn responded thoughtfully, “As one of the Summer Camp Committee members, I suppose my answer to this would reflect theirs. If students generally enjoyed the experience, then I found it successful. If not, then…” pursing her lips, she trailed off.

Not to worry, Evelynn! Ariana Westonfield-Rivera from Castelobruxo shared that she had only been to a carnival once before and found her experience at camp “not that bad, actually. The committee certainly did their best on it.”

Lucille Rosenhart from Hogwarts gushed about the Derby, calling it her favourite. “I love horses, and winged ones are amazing. I couldn’t wait to see it…I had my eyes glued to the track the whole time, even before the race started!” Her eyes sparkled with euphoria as she added, “I think it was just a really nice opportunity for all the students to come together, and, not to mention, the rush! It felt like the one moment of camp where there was no time for rest; every moment mattered to make sure your favorite was still in the lead!”

Damien Dragonclaw, proud member of the committee, oversaw the carnival games. He laughed, “My favourite bit had to be Diadem Toss as it gave me a chance to show off my pride for my house.” His idea was to make the rings resemble Rowena Ravenclaw’s diadem and toss them onto her head, aiming to bring joy and fun to the campers. Camp concluded with a spectacular round of fireworks, a personal favourite of second year Joseph Sims—“To see the sky light up like that, beautiful and all.” Awkwardly imitating fireworks bursting, he added, “We should have these back at Hogwarts, y’know. I think it’d make us so happy.”

It’s safe to say many thoroughly found the experience a welcoming change of pace and a great way to start school again. Will the 2026 summer camp be as epic as this?


The New Guy on the Headliner
by Oonagh Brown

Not that this guy truly deserves a whole page just about himself, as his ego is already blown out of proportion enough. But let’s get to know this guy just a little bit better in a way that will probably make more sense to me than you.

O: So tell the readers, what is your name?
S: Silas.
O: Alright, going to ignore that.
S: Then why ask?

O: Next question: are you alright with nicknames?
S: I feel like no matter what I say, you’re going to use this against me. But I guess so? Honestly, I don’t really care—I have plenty of nicknames among friends, and I’m also not going to cry about it if some [censored] calls me something I don’t like.
O: You heard it here folks, just come up with whichever name you wish to call him and he won’t mind!
S: Hey, that’s not what I said.
O: He truly doesn’t mind!
S: [censored]

O: How were your first days in this school?
S: Bad.
O: [sarcastically] Fascinating.
S: What do you want me to say?
O: [normally] Anything else! But relatable.

O: Are you interested in any of the sports? Like the best one? Quidditch?
S: Yeah, any of ‘em. I still wish this school had football, but I guess these’ll have to do. Quidditch does seem well cool, I’ll give you that.
O: So at least you have some taste, got it.

O: Do you have a broom? Which one?
S: I do, but I dunno. I think it’s a Silver Arrow.

O: Not bad. What is your favourite kind of snack or food?
S: Jelly slugs. [laughs]. A kind of snack… crisps, I suppose? Just give me all the snacks, though. I’m interested in trying new wizard ones, too.
O: As if you wouldn’t just take them. [shakes head].
S: [smirks] Still, you should give me some too.

O: No. Moving on. Which class do you think is best for naps?
S: All of ‘em. Maybe History of Magic, or Astronomy since it’s at night.
O: Remember to get enough sleep everyone, even if that means missing morning class!

O: Where do you keep your snacks?
S: Wouldn’t you like to know, weather boy?

Anyway, this is it. As you can see, talking about this guy is quite uneventful, and I am growing tired of coming up with questions, especially because that idiot just keeps avoiding any question of relevance. But the use of such memes was the last straw, so if you are truly interested in this guy, then try to find out more about him by yourselves… or, better yet, just pester him with useless small talk. I am off to find out where this guy hides his snacks.


Beyond the Classroom: Prefects
by Alphonse Toussaint

This next edition of “Beyond the Classroom” is focused on putting our infamous prefects in the spotlight! As a new student to this school after my expulsion from Castelobruxo and transfer from Ilvermorny, I share the struggles of applying names to the prefects’ faces. To remedy this, I had the privilege of interviewing Martyr Daeva-Lazarus, Prefect of Gryffindor; Sage Willows, Prefect of Hufflepuff; and Alyss Gilmour and Kaitlyn Connor, Prefects of Slytherin.

How long have you been a prefect at Hogwarts? What motivated you?

Martyr: “What are you writin' an acceptance speech or somethin'? Naw, I'm just kidding, power abuse was where all the appeal was... Also kidding... I'd hate to give up such a cushy spot over a total joke. I've had my position fresh off the boat! Who would have thought knowing a guy who knew a gal could get you prefect?”
Sage: “I started as a prefect in late September '24, it’s been a lot of fun so far. I knew I wanted a position as prefect to further help people find their way. I love helping people, and I love this part of my time at Hogwarts.”
Alyss: “Well, I got the owl a few days after graduation—a month or two now? But I haven’t done any patrolling as of yet, haha. I just kinda thought that it would be a good way of helping out!”
Kaitlyn: “It's been roughly two and a half months... since mid-May. What motivated me? Helping others!”

Have you experienced any challenges?

Martyr: “Yeah. Yappy busybodies that want to know what I'm up to.”
Sage: “Everyone is facing challenges at some point, whether it’s visible or not. Most of my challenges came from difficulties with my family instead of troublesome detentions.”
Alyss: “Not being able to do anything! I’m sitting here with no responsibilities because of when I got the news!”
Kaitlyn: “Figuring out how to balance the responsibility with being a student. Sometimes I have to wonder if being a prefect could impact how other people see me. I've always been very polite, but I also want to be seen as friendly and fun-loving.”

How do you balance your studies and/or sports with your prefect duties?

Martyr: “Once, some dipstick said that I didn't know the difference between the time for work and the time for play. I thwacked him on the racing track with my broomstick. Didn't have another problem with the guy and I got to do a few laps around the track after. You get what I'm sayin'? I find time for both.”
Sage: “Balance? I don’t know about that... It’s mostly long nights awake studying and practicing at the Quidditch field.”
Kaitlyn: “I've always enjoyed school. I had to adjust my study schedule a little since patrolling cuts into my reading time, though. But I carry along homework or a good book—I can do more than one thing at once!”

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student like myself?

Martyr: “Always remember your manners and the three magic words: ‘please,’ ‘thank you,’ and ‘step off, [censored].’”
Sage: “Put yourself out there. Try new sports or clubs! It’s okay and encouraged to take time to figure out your path. Most importantly: ask for help when you need it.”
Alyss: “Focus on the people. Once you meet the right people, everything can change for the better.”
Kaitlyn: “One of the best things you can do at Hogwarts is build your social circle. Get to know your classmates! I promise we don't bite!”


Hogwarts, How Many Languages Do You Speak? (Part II)
by Archer Duncan

Welcome back to part two of our analysis of the multilingual community of Hogwarts.

Picking up where we left off, we continue in the British Isles. Siobhan, a native speaker of Irish, described how she loved the way the language flowed, “almost in a way that is secretive because of its complexity and confusing nature to those who don’t speak it.” She also commented on how she wished it was taught more and shared her favourite expression: “Tá ceann ort a chuirfeadh oinniún ag caoineadh”, meaning “You’ve a head on you that would make an onion cry!”

Brookline, on the other hand, is a Welsh speaker and expressed how, despite once holding mixed opinions on the language, she hopes it will be taught to family, friends, and next generations to increase recognition, especially since she feels most comfortable expressing her emotions in the language. To manifest this, she taught me a new and quite wholesome word in the language: “cwtch”, which means hug.

We are again back in familiar territories with Germanic and Romance languages. Ara Villa, the polyglot she is, described to me how she, instead of “bedtime stories”, had “bedtime tutors”, living in a household where fluency in multiple languages was as much survival as it was academia. She first started with German, the language infamous for its absurdly long vocabulary. Ara, however, adores them, saying they are like “puzzles hiding stories”. Waldeinsamkeit, for example, means the feeling of solitude in a forest. Ara believes in the discipline of the language’s rhythm and that its initial harshness is worth it when a learner gets to poetry like that. Such words, as she proved, are not tedium but art.

Next is the ever-popular French, always an endearing pain. Mandatory in Scottish Muggle primary schools and often taught in pureblood society, it’s no wonder it is so widely spoken. According to Ara, conjugation was the worst, but consistency and consumption of French media was the cure. Violeta Roux agreed that practice makes perfect, and at a young age, she had already read and listened to music in the language, “practically drowning [herself] in it”. Koko Riddle concurred, saying that the more one interacts with the language, the easier it gets, a valuable lesson that applies to more than just French.

While Violeta, Koko, and Eugenia Karageorgiadi all had negative comments regarding French being a romantic language, Ara was more insightful, saying that it can be very romantic when used effortlessly. One example she gave was the phrase “tu me manques”, literally translating to “you lack me” but meaning “I miss you”, carrying a sadness unparalleled in English. This also brings me to the many idioms of the French language. Having been given an extensive list to choose from by my interviewees, my favourite would have to be Eugenia’s: “le serpent qui se mord la queue”, or a snake biting its own tail. What might be referred to as “ouroboros” in English means vicious cycles, which Eugenia comments on as a predicament of hers.

Violeta, who is also learning Italian, commented on how it drew her in because of its similarity to English and French, thanks to their shared Latin roots. She also remarked that although she is a non-native speaker, she had learnt its famous hand gestures and her favourite one is tapping the side of one’s head to signal someone is crazy. Her choice seems to be a particularly useful one.

And that is a wrap on this month. Tune in next month for our final instalment, featuring two much lesser-known languages and even two magical ones.


Muggle Perceptions of Vampires
by Tristan Theramin

The macabre and the beautiful intertwine in the modern Muggle’s perception of vampires. Though the stories of vampires began by showing them as villainous enemies of humankind, deserving a death by a stake in the heart or to be warded off with garlic and crosses, their imagination began to evolve into something more. Dracula is the first of these new imaginations. He is a monster, yet he is intelligent and rescues the main character.

Following Dracula, the vampire becomes a symbol of a tragic character, representing the Muggle and human fight between good and evil, within society and within oneself. The twentieth century vampire is a creature that must do what they are born to do, yet are conflicted and horrified with themselves. They are a villain, but a villain who watches in melancholy and disgust at what they do.

Stories such as the Interview with the Vampire, Forever Knight, and Dark Shadows are all about characters who do villainous deeds yet are in essence human. They feel the deepest of tragedies, the highest of pleasures, and the worst regret. Vampires are both the worst of the worst and the best of the best. They make choices that make them angels and the next moment demons. They love. They hate. They cry. They laugh. They murder. They heal. Yet they are in their very nature monstrous, trapped forever in the fickleness of predatory nature.

Then the vampire becomes a romantic figure, losing its monstrous identity, transforming into a suave and beautiful creature, the subject of romance. Stories such as Twilight, the Argeneau series, and the Dark Hunter series show vampires through a veil of goodness and virtue. They are figures imagined in the mind of teen girls and boys, the perfect human, charming, loving, caring, beautiful, one’s true love.

This transformation from monster to love interest shows a reinvention that is also visible in the perception of other creatures in Muggle fiction. We were seen as threats, but now they see us as just as human as any other person in their fiction: people who make choices that are evil or good. The werewolf, which was once seen as a monstrous creature to be put to death, now is written either as a sympathetic creature unable to control its violence, or as a protector of humanity.

Perhaps the most interesting striking feature of these perceptions is the thematic tendency for these creatures to be the representation of the oppressed, the minority, and the outcast. Especially with vampires in the twentieth century, there has often been a queer subtext. Many stories with these creatures address societal wrongs, comment on injustice, and speak of racial tensions. It seems instead of a monster, the vampire in Muggle perception has become the symbol of all of humanity itself. The vampire is a fantastical creature written to express grief, tragedy, romance, loneliness, and fear. The enemy has become a tool for good in the Muggle mind.

This is all fantasy—however, there are magical beings out there. We have half-breeds among us, yet we still treat these magical beings as our enemies at times. Do these stories mean something to us? Should we learn from our Muggle counterparts? Please, tell us your thoughts.


Magical & Muggle Meals: Marinated Mandrake Soufflé
by Aly Salinger

As recently as less than 10 years ago, the Leaky Cauldron added stewed mandrake quiche to their menu as what was supposed to be a new, inventive, and groundbreaking dish. Unfortunately, it was met with nearly universal condemnation as critics and normal customers alike called the meal “disruptive” to their digestive systems and “utterly nausea-inducing”. While some blamed it on the mandrake ingredient itself, I disagreed, and thought that perhaps it was the combination of the chewy mandrake and the denser texture of the egg that might have caused the ubiquitous dislike of the dish.

A different way of cooking the mandrake and a lighter, fluffier egg mixture was deemed to potentially be the solution, and after several different recipe variations, we at the Headliner are proud to present to you our vastly improved version of the Leaky Cauldron’s disastrous fare. Delicate, airy eggs combine perfectly with crunchy puff pastry and salty marinated mandrake, rather than stewed, in this brand-new technique—and, best of all, they’re miniature and individually cooked, so there’s no slicing or dicing required!


Ingredients:

• 1 cup dragon milk (*cow milk)
• ½ cup + a little extra dragon butter (*cow butter)
• 2 tablespoons Wizarding Wheat Self-Charmed Flour (*all-purpose flour)
• 2 sheets puff pastry**
• ½ cup spinach dip**
• 1 mandrake, marinated in oil (*3-4 marinated artichoke hearts)
• 5 Occamy eggs (*chicken eggs)
• ½ cup shredded charmed cheese (*cheddar cheese)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

*Muggle alternative.
**Can be purchased in Hogsmeade, or at your local corner shoppe.

Directions:

1. If your puff pastry is frozen, defrost it with a quick Hot-Air Charm (*leaving it out for 30 minutes before use).
2. Preheat your oven to 205°C (400°F) and, with the little extra butter, coat 12 small ramekins or all of the cups in a metal cupcake tin.
3. In a medium-sized cauldron over a medium flame, melt the ½ cup butter, then add flour and milk and stir until thick (about 3-5 minutes). This mixture is called a roux. When properly thickened, remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature; this process can be sped up with a properly placed Freezing Spell, but be careful that you don’t freeze the roux.
4. Cut your puff pastry sheets into squares roughly the size of the ramekin/tins, or slightly bigger; stretch them to fit and carefully line the cups with the pastry. Allow for some overflow around the edges.
5. On a large cutting board, finely chop marinated mandrake into small pieces with your wand (*sharp knife). Be careful to not get your fingers in the way of your Severing Charm!
6. In a large cauldron away from heat, beat 4 of the eggs with salt and pepper to your liking, then add spinach dip, chopped mandrake, and cooled roux to them and mix thoroughly.
7. Add cheese to this mixture and stir to combine, then divide the mixture equally between the 12 ramekins/tins. This process can get quite messy—make sure you have some cleaning charms on hand!
8. Fold the excess puff pastry over top of the egg mixture within each tin, without fully covering the egg.
9. Beat the last egg in a small tin and brush it on top of the puff pastry; this will help the pastry to attain a lovely golden-brown hue while baking.
10. Put the soufflés in the oven and allow to bake for 20-30 minutes; remove from heat when the egg and pastry are puffy and the latter is a lovely golden-brown. Serve warm and enjoy!

Note: Do not tell the proprietors of the Leaky Cauldron about this. They might sue us.


Lullabies & Other Sleepy Traditions
by Alyss Gilmour

Human babies are rather high maintenance—just ask your parents. They lie awake for hours, wailing and screaming until given the familiar embrace that they so crave. Thus, one of the first inventions is believed to be a baby sling, to better hold the young children close in their first months of growth. Although many animals, such as horses, come out of the womb ready to walk and run alongside their companions, humans are… less ready for this aspect of life. However, one thing that we do have is strong, resilient, and burnt-out parental figures.

Lullabies are fairly straightforward and can be found in nearly every culture across the planet. The majestic melody and slow notes sung aloud are for the mere purpose of comfort and peace from loud children. This is why the sung tones were adopted by so many cultures, and as for the reason they work? Why, because they are predictable. Soothing notes combined with repetition are simply a pattern that provides comfort and safety in the constantly shifting life of a newborn.

However, as children grow, some soft and gentle noises won’t lull them to sleep the way they used to, so parents instead read them little stories, many times fairy tales. One student, Lillian McMason, says, “When I was little, my mother would tell me a short fantasy story she'd make up as she went.”

These tales are often steeped in a fantastical world, likely to allow for an escape from reality and to let one’s mind relax and focus on the outrageous world being explained and experienced through one's imagination. Whether they originate from the Brothers Grimm or straight from someone’s mind, they allow children to stop thinking so much. Turning my brain off is something I have personally struggled with many times, which is why fun stories can be so helpful.

One of the many problems with our world is the fact that a way of comfort and routine is looked at as simply being childish. As you grow, your mind doesn’t suddenly decide it hates the soft and sweet songs sung as you fall into a deep sleep. You don’t simply begin to hate the stories that are told to you while you enter the confines of the sleep cycle. Instead, many are told to “get over it” or to “grow up”. I find this to be insulting. If someone is judged for enjoying their method of achieving one of the most important tasks for their health, then our community needs to reconsider our priorities. “When I was about six, my sister helped them decide that I was too old for stories,” Lillian continued, when asked whether or not she maintained an attachment to her mother’s stories. I find this to be disappointing. No one is ever too old for the joy of the storybooks, no matter how childish the world believes them to be.

If sleep is one of the most important things for your health, physical, mental and emotional, then why are our techniques for doing so under such scrutiny? Whether you’re a seventh year or a first year, how you get to sleep is your own business, and the process shouldn’t matter, so long as you’re getting those eight hours of shut-eye. Whether lullabies, white noise, or fairy tales and fantasies, we hope you use whatever system is at your disposal to get the amount of sleep you need.


A Personal Confession Through the Poetic Art
by Tristan Theramin

Today, I offer you something a little different than what you would usually expect from me as a writer for the Headliner. Today, I offer you a poem of my own, as I seek to honour the great Muggle and wizarding poets of old. Perhaps this is the first time you have ever read a poem. Perhaps you think that poetry is something inaccessible to you. However, I argue that poetry is just an expression and a confession of the heart, intertwined in the very nature of humanity.

Silence flickers through my very soul
It lingers and lengthens
Tendrils snaking and slithering down my throat
Bottomless yet firmly finite.

Silence echoes in a cold, bright room.
It tightens and tears
Drops falling and feeding the shame stuck in groans
Forgiveness fathomed alone

Silence aches in dewdropped grass
It follows and falters
Memory urges and unknits the threads of life
Time turns sorrow to anger

Silence begs in wretched wakes
It seethes and screams
Wounds fester and fracture the heart and soul
Is it just a moment, nothing more.

Poetry is the deepest groans of humanity bursting through in word. It’s the depiction of a child laughing and a mother crying. It reflects both the greatest of sorrows and the greatest of joys. Many a poet and many an author have asked whether their art has to come from sorrow. It is a valid question, one I myself have asked. Poets have always struggled in life, often the outcast or the pained. Perhaps that is why they are poets: they are the most human of us all. They are willing to feel the deepest of pains and greatest of joys, while the rest of us protect ourselves from the pain even if we do not get to feel as great a joy.

I, Tristan Theramin, can only hope to write as well as the greatest writers of them all. But I wonder—if art has to come from pain, what purpose does it serve at all? I propose that it is not that art comes from pain, but that art is created despite the pain. It is the rebellion of the human soul against the despair that threatens us all. It is the soothing hug in a mother’s bosom. Yes, pain might be conducive to art, but we cannot condone pain for the beauty that comes out of it. The better way indeed to view the world is that beauty and art are a rebellion against sorrow and pain. They are hoped for and longed for in those deep dark nights when everything is silent and all you can hear are your own thoughts. Poetry is an art that rebels against despair and darkness and I believe it can be written by all. It is very human to rebel against sorrow and despair. Yet it is also human for them to overcome us. Furthermore, it is human to be ecstatic beyond anything else in the world. Poetry is, thus, a representation of the best of us and the worst of us, of every emotion that a human has considered. So if you have not looked into it, I urge you to begin.

Hogwarts: A Survival Guide, Part 2 - Forbidden For A Reason
by Matthew Campbell

“If you go down in the woods today, you're sure of a big surprise” – “The Teddy Bears’ Picnic”, a welcome song from my childhood, helped raise a nation of explorers and nature enthusiasts, and was a source of intrigue and comfort. But unbeknownst to the Muggle children of the world, there are far greater dangers lurking within our forests than teddy bears. For in the wizarding world, the monsters are very real and even prowl within our very grounds; they rear their heads from the shadows, after having lain in wait for the foolish, hoping to claim their next victim. Such rumours have no doubt begun circling about this year's threats to safety; after all, with the Fall Ball quickly approaching, the memories of dangers past are at the forefront. But just how deadly are these school grounds which are meant to protect us?

The Forbidden Forest has long been wrapped in warnings, yet the simplicity of mere words never satisfied me. What power did a prohibition hold if not backed by action? Why was the Forest deemed so dangerous that it must be off-limits, yet so unmonitored that precautions seemed unnecessary? Was the wizarding world truly indifferent to our safety? Must we, then, take it entirely into our own hands? I can assure you, I did just that – and if you venture into the woods today, or any other day, you’ll be lucky to stay alive.

In the light of day, the Forbidden Forest has an undeniable draw, and with the sweet lull of birdsong and the shimmer of radiant sunbeams peeking through the leaves, you could easily be deceived into believing it harmless. Then, as the dark grows and eddies of wind begin to howl through the trees, the disguise is discarded and replaced by the sinister truth. For what lay within these woods still stays with me each night, haunting my dreams.

This is not to say that all the forest’s inhabitants are foreboding; in fact, many Thestrals, fairies, and even unicorns call the place their home. But such creatures do not seek to harm and remind us of the duality of nature, a direct contrast to the forest’s more sinister inhabitants. Acromantulas, blood-sucking bugbears, wolves, and even hags are alleged to stalk these lands, and to my greatest displeasure, we – myself and my anonymous accomplice – would prove such allegations to be true.

It started with nothing more than the snapping of a small twig, but no sooner had the sound echoed through the trees than my heart began to race. In the following silence that stopped me dead, much eerier sounds began to follow – the clamor of legs rapidly scuttling over bark and mud skittered unnaturally around us, broken only by the sounds of our own frantic footfalls. Turning back, I could hardly breathe as I saw a pair of Acromantulas swarming towards us. Desperate to protect ourselves, we hurled repelling spells to hold them back, but it would only succeed for so long. In mere seconds, we understood the real danger of this place, and recognised that even mere words should be heeded sometimes.

Miraculously – and I do mean that quite literally – we were saved by the kindness of that bleak place. Pressed up against a tree with no energy left to run, we had all but accepted our fate. Yet, still desperate, we slung spells, despite being certain that our hubris and curiosity had killed us both.

Suddenly, an unlikely ally came to our aid: a native of the forest who threatened the beasts away. This centaur is the only reason this article has been able to make it to print. But even such heroes are not always of a kind nature, for this place is their home, and we are the trespassers.

Given an escort to safety, we learned a great deal. Even in the apparent security, I couldn’t help but feel watched. Crone-like whispers followed us back to the forest’s edge, and our scent and fear now lingered deep within those woods – perhaps a warning for whatever hunter desired new prey.

While lucky enough to have survived such a dangerous endeavour, I wish to impart that luck was indeed the only factor that saved us. Had any more of these terrifying creatures – or anything else that lives in those dark pockets of gnarled branches – ventured out, I believe nothing short of a miracle could have saved us then, or could save the future you if you ignore my warning. So do yourself a favour, and don’t be like me: when something is labelled forbidden, don’t be reckless enough to test it. Because, trust me, the walls of Hogwarts themselves are dangerous enough, and some of the worst monsters don’t hide in the dark but walk free in the light.


Gospel of the Self-Made God
by Verdigris

In the ever-changing hierarchy of wizarding society, few lives are as laden with expectation as those of pure-bloods. To be born into an old magical family is to inherit a lineage and a narrative — a myth of who you should be and why you deserve to be remembered. At its most seductive, this myth transforms heirs into self-made gods: figures convinced that destiny is a stage, and their lives, the central performance. Within this cosmology, every pure-blood matures amidst pantheons of rival “godlings”, each determined to ascend from the private sanctums of their ancestral homes to the coveted front page of the Daily Prophet, and from there into the long memory of family legend.

Pure-blood culture has always been obsessed with reputation. Genealogy books, family tapestries, and heraldic jewellery remind children that their worth is ancient and proven. Yet those same emblems breed a paradox: if pre-eminence is already secured by birth, what remains to be achieved? The answer often leads down a path of narcissism — not vanity, but a full-scale obsession with curating a persona so blinding it overshadows contemporaries and ancestors alike. To be a successful scion is not enough; one must become a living myth, a deity sculpted by one’s own ambition.

You are your own self-made god.

How else is one to dress up and preen oneself in the eyes of thousands of others? You'll trim away your imperfections, and mask what you cannot, until you are your own self-made god. Your body becomes your temple — your hands bear no calluses, yet your tongue has sliced through countless battles. From the moment you awaken to the time you fall asleep, you are locked in societal combat with a ceaseless stream of rival godlings for the glory of becoming the only G-O-D.

More followers means more believers in your divinity. As a pure-blood, you rise each day to present yourself as an elusive, more-than-human figure — for the newspapers and an artist's brush, even in your most intimate moments. You ignore the sour hunger pains that make your teeth ache with the urge to bite and find your cheek a suitable surrogate.

This narcissism is always cultivated early. Pure-blood children grow up in houses where portraits murmur encouragement or criticism, the expectations of dead relatives hovering like ancestral ghosts. Every meal, lesson, or ceremony is a silent audition for the family’s eternal approval. When all you do is labour for the sake of your image, you begin to believe in the praise and the ridicule of your family: You have heritage. Don’t lower yourself to talking to them. You are greater. You’re entitled to respect. Over time, this evolves into an almost religious belief in the self, a conviction that your personal charisma and schemes can bend even the world into submission.

The metaphor of “self-made gods” captures more than inflated egos; it also reflects this theology of power. In this unspoken faith, divinity is no longer bestowed upon you by the divine up above like Hercules and Zeus, but forged through wit, politics, and spectacle. Front-page coverage is the modern Olympus, and headlines are scripture validating your existence. The scramble to dominate society’s pages — Ministry appointments and exclusive salons — becomes a holy war fought with champagne flutes, clandestine bribes under the table, and strategic alliances with people you secretly disdain. A new art exhibition, a scandalous duel, or a whispered romance all turn into offerings on the altar of notoriety.

The pursuit is never solitary. Pure-blood circles operate like overlapping pantheons where each figure seeks to outshine the rest while also depending on the recognition of one another. Rivalries are as old as the bloodlines themselves: siblings competing for patriarchal favour, cousins manoeuvring for inheritance, former schoolmates clashing over Ministry promotions. There’s always the awareness that you are surrounded by competitors just as pedigreed and ambitious.

Worship is fragile, after all. Today’s darling can so easily become tomorrow’s cautionary tale, with reputations as perishable as dragon-lily blooms. The resulting anxiety often fuels the excesses outsiders ridicule — ostentatious galas, obsessive networking, and ruthless politicking. The race to maintain relevance becomes so consuming that authentic identity is sacrificed on the altar of performance.

So the battle for your name’s legacy and immortality runs through first, second, and countless generations thereafter. Ironically, it is as close to a Muggle Shakespearean tragedy as one can get. Macbeths and Macduffs are reborn tenfold, a thousand Icaruses flying too close to the sun.

You are your own self-made ruination.


On Mid-Autumn Festival and the Moon
by Archer Duncan

This year, the 6th of October marks the Mid-Autumn Festival. Held on the 15th day of the eighth month in the lunar calendar, it is a harvest festival widely known for its celebration of the moon. Culturally, it is known as the day in the year with the brightest full moon. It is celebrated by appreciating the moon’s beauty, family gatherings, and eating moon cakes: small, round pastries with intricate decorations. Lantern lighting is also a common activity, symbolising a path towards the light or good fortune. The festival dates back three thousand years, while variants and similar holidays are celebrated in other Asian countries.

The festival is based on the Chinese goddess, Chang’e. Famously, she drank a portion of the elixir of immortality while trying to save it from her husband’s troubled apprentice. Then, she flew up to the heavens and chose the moon as her immortal residence in the sky. According to tradition, observers of the moon that night can see her in its shadow. The Jade Rabbit, called Yu Tu, is said to be seen beside her.

Outside of Asia, our commonly celebrated Easter is also directly tied to the moon. It is observed on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox. Similarly, the entire holy month of Ramadan is based on the lunar calendar, making the moon a crucial marker of sacred time. Other familiar names to us may be the Greco-Roman goddesses Artemis and Diana. As can be seen, the Mid-Autumn is often associated with femininity and yin, depicted as the opposite of the brightness of the sun. Being dark in nature, it also has connotations to mystery and the unknown.

Perhaps this is why the full moon is also associated with madness, thus the words “lunacy” and “lunatic”. For centuries, it was widely believed that the full moon could trigger insanity or erratic behaviours in people. This can also be seen in literature, such as Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, where the moon governs over a “lunatic” comedy of imagination.

On a similar note, for students here, a full moon might conjure up a memory of werewolves or lycanthropes. For those who owe our DADA professor much more attention, lycanthropes are creatures famed for transforming into wolf-like humanoids on the full moon every month. Upon transformation, lycanthropes have no memory of their human form and become similar to wild beasts without medication, which is why Hogwarts isolates them and provides help. This is just one example of how powerfully we perceive the moon and are impacted by it.

To contrast the magical with the mundane are tides. This scientific phenomenon is caused by the moon’s gravity on the Earth’s seas. Due to water’s fluidity, it is pulled up, forming waves. The moon is more than just mythology and magic – it keeps the Earth in balance as well.

To finish off this article, I interviewed Hogwarts’s resident selenophile, meaning lover of the moon, for more information. Although they wished to stay anonymous, they provided some insightful answers. To them, “She is a presence I find myself seeking comfort from each night. The moon was there when I needed a companion through sleepless nights, and she has remained ever since.” When I asked them how they favoured observing the moon, they replied: “I like bathing directly under her light, so that would be outside, with my bare eyes.”

Although they confessed to being a fan of the full moon themself, their second answer intrigued me more: “Though I surprisingly find myself enjoying new moons immensely. There is a comfort in knowing she is there, yet you cannot trust your own eyes to confirm it – a certain trust, almost?” An answer almost ironic, I could not help but understand the silent weight of her invisible existence.

This is a sign for you to gaze at the moon yourself; I, for one, know exactly what I would be doing at the Mid-Autumn Festival.


Hogwarts’s Best Autumn Date Spots For You & Your Fall Flame
by Aly Salinger

Just because we’re four whole months away from Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean that love isn’t already in the air at Hogwarts! Take a deep breath and sense it: the crisp tang of autumn in the air, leaves crunching under your step, that first October chill that just makes you want to stay in with a nice hot cuppa and snuggle with your sweetie to keep warm. This time of year is perfect for adorable autumnal love affairs, and the school’s resident seventh-year romantic is here to make sure that your fall flings turn out to be just as heart-wrenchingly darling as you dream them to be.

How, exactly, do you make autumn the season of romance? The answer is simple: with the best dates any girl, guy, or non-binary person could ask for. This time of year is just brimming with unexplored hang-out spots or enchanting activities that are sure to bewitch your beloved, without any love potions required. Here are just a few of the harvesttime hobbies Hogwarts and the surrounding area has to offer:

1. Pumpkin carving
   There are always pumpkins abound around the castle this time of year. Find some in the Great Hall, or nick one from a local pumpkin patch – then use your handy Severing Charm to carve out a beautiful image on one side, or go the Muggle way and use a knife for a little added quaintness. Put on a record and dance around whilst you carve, and place candles in your jack-o-lanterns when finished to enjoy your creations’ flickering light!
2. Go dancing in the ghost ballroom
   Speaking of dancing, did you know there’s a wonderful (private!) place to do so anytime right here in the castle? I won’t give away its exact location, but if you’re brave enough to try dancing with death, be on the lookout for the Deathday Party Hall. You’re bound to find some eerie music playing, and look up for an exciting surprise – some of Hogwarts’ ghosts enjoy a whirl about the ballroom together. They always appreciate having a living individual in their midst – just be prepared to change the music when they ask that of you!
3. Make autumnal snacks in the kitchen
   The kitchen is another one whose location I shan’t just give out to anyone and everyone reading the Headliner, but I sure was tickled pink (or green?) when I found this place for the first time! The house-elves within are always thrilled to assist with any cooking or baking plans you may bring to the table, and autumn is clearly the season with the best snacks. From pies to ciders, stews to soups, piquant pumpkin pips to breads and baked goods of all kinds… you’re sure to have a great time cooking up a storm with your sweetheart. Take your completed goods out to the lake for a lakeside picnic to finish – just make sure to bring a blanket or two!
4. A cozy Three Broomsticks date (+ a trip to Muggle Artefacts)
   It wouldn’t be a date list without the Three Broomsticks on it! Cosying up to your precious one in the corner booth is easily the best autumnal activity in Hogsmeade, to which many elder years shall attest. However, if it’s too crowded, why not get your butterbeer to go and give Muggle Artefacts a try? Wandering the dusty aisles gives the feeling of the Muggle activity “antiquing,” and you may come away with a few cool or spooky treasures to show each other in excitement as you walk back to the castle.
5. Bonfire and stargazing
   When night has fallen but curfew’s still a while out, take to the cold out-of-doors and warm yourself up with a bonfire on the grounds. As long as you build it properly (and get a professor’s permission), it should be fine! When you’re ready to stargaze, extinguish the flames and stare upwards into the night sky. October is always a great time for stargazing, and the Orionids meteor shower peaks on the 21st this year, if you’re in the mood for some meteor-minding!
6. Leaf-finding competition
   A fun one for those competitive folks in our midst: you each try to find the best leaf! What exactly is “best” about it can be totally up to you – crunchiest, brightest colours, prettiest shape, etc. – but there are so many trees turning colourful around this time that you’re sure to have your pick of leaves. At the end, make a pile of all the leaves you can find and jump into it together for a bit of added fun!

Ultimately, what matters most is that you enjoy your time together. After all, autumn only lasts so long before it gives way to winter. Make sure you’re not left with a frozen heart by taking your loved one on one of these enjoyable dates!


Third Time’s the Charm - Interview with Alphonse Toussaint
by Oonagh Brown

Hello to whoever is actually interested in learning more about that random student who decided to move to the UK, and my pity to whoever just reads every article one way or another because they are simply obsessed with the Headliner for whatever reason.

I bring to you an interview in which I interviewed a student who has – before this school year – studied in two schools abroad, but has now come to Hogwarts. Hopefully, he won’t add to the numbers of boring students already present and will, instead, increase the tiny amount of people in this school who are actually interesting or fun to be around. Let’s find out together, shall we?

O: Hey you, tell the readers a bit about yourself, and please make it interesting. I don’t want [censored] boring stuff in my article.
A: Well [censored]. What do you want to know? I’m Hogwarts’s first transfer student. And yes, I totally wrote in the last Headliner’s edition. If a first-year Hufflepuff is going around saying I forced her to write a few articles for me, she’s lying.

O: What has made you switch schools and come to Hogwarts? Did magic suck there, too? If that was the reason, I have to disappoint you, because I feel that is a worldwide phenomenon and won’t get better in the UK…
A: Now that you mentioned it, Ilvermorny’s magic was kind of lame. Castelobruxo’s magic was alright, I guess… flashy ‘cause the golden pyramids, maybe. Anyways, I got expelled from Castelobruxo, and was forced to transfer from Ilvermorny at the end of second year.

O: What has gotten you kicked out of the schools? Are you going to see how much it takes to get kicked out of this school too?
A: So, my transfer from Ilvermorny was only ‘cause Headmaster Fleischer – my dad – stepped down. Castelobruxo is a different story; these three pendejos were starting to piss me off, so I showed them two really cool things: my fists. You catch my drift, yes? I’m gonna try to make it out of here too… I’m curious where they’ll ship me off to next. Hopefully Beauxbâtons…

O: Why Beaux-whatever?
A: Last February, the Beauxbâtons Headmistress invited all the schools to France. I met someone special who attends Beauxbâtons, but our time was cut short when one of the Headmasters drugged me with Amortentia. No, that's not exaggeration or nothin’ – I was actually drugged by one of 'em. Needless to say, I've been trying to make up for lost time ever since.

O: Are you interested in any of the sports or clubs this school has to offer?
A: Look, let’s cut the bullshit. Quidditch is the only thing on my mind, and if you guys don’t let me on the team soon – well [censored]. I played as a Chaser for Castelobruxo and a Beater for Ilvermorny, and I’m not trying to stop there.
O: I like you already!

O: If you could break three rules of Hogwarts and get away with it, which rules would you pick to break?
A: Do professors get a copy of these? No? Okay. First, I heard you got a Forbidden Forest? What the hell makes it so forbidden? That’s what I wanna know. Two more? Hm… the “No duelling outside of the duelling club.” So you’re telling me I gotta walk a million steps just to beat your ass? That’s crazy work. In Ilvermorny, “on sight” means on sight. Last one’s “No cheating.” If you’re not cheating, you’re not trying – it’s survival of the fittest out here. You gotta adapt.

As far as first impressions go, this could have gone a lot worse. He, at the very least, does not appear to be the standard boring student; instead, this school has gained another troublemaker in the making. He has yet to prove that, but I, for one, will be expecting his first prank to blow something up soon; unless he is all bark and no bite. Your move, Al.


What Happened to the Thirteenth Portrait in the Charms Corridor?
by Simon Kincaid

You may have noticed something odd lately on your way to Charms class if you weren’t too busy preparing for last-minute exams with your head in a book or engrossed in conversation with a friend.

It is quieter, much quieter. The chatty thirteenth portrait in the row of enchanted paintings in the Charms corridor has suddenly vanished. The frame is still there, gold trimmed and crooked, but the painting within is gone. If you ask the other nearby portraits about it, they go suspiciously quiet or turn away.

According to texts found in the library, the painting featured Augustus Tatterhelm and was known by many around Hogwarts by the nickname of Sir Tatterhelm the Talkative. He was a 15th-century wizard known for attempting to charm the entire French Royal Court. His portrait within our corridor has been known to offer unsolicited advice on everything from wand motions to romantic entanglements.

A nearby portrait, the seventh portrait in the row of enchanted paintings in the Charms corridor, said that Sir Tatterhelm was “annoying, but never boring.” She claimed that he was always chatting away, never silent. He would give fashion critiques and weather recaps, or would retell stories that he had told a thousand times over, each rendition better than the last. According to the students I asked, some said he would occasionally sprinkle something on the notion of pure magic into his statements.

When I asked the nearby portrait, the one of Valeria Myriadd, she quickly dismissed it, stating that “some portraits are more active than others. And some know when it’s time to be quiet.”

She did add, “Pure magic is not a subject for idle chatter, nor for curious students. Those who delve too deep into such notions tend to disappear – just like our portrait. You must understand, some magics are best left unspoken.”

Have we uncovered something worth investigating deeper into, or best left hidden? Perhaps the portrait of Valeria Myriadd was only toying with me.

Naturally, Hogwarts students have their own theories on what might have happened to the thirteenth portrait in the charms corridor. Some feel as though Sir Tatterhelm the Talkative simply wandered off. Since portraits can move between frames, he might have visited elsewhere for conversation. Still, he hasn’t been seen recently in other portraits.

One believes the disappearance was a prank gone wrong. This student is blaming it on a group of third-year Slytherin students, saying they were trying to prank the painting and may have accidentally banished it.

The only other portrait to talk about was the Wizard in Red, who was half asleep when he gave the vague remark that “some silences are best left unspoken” and that I should “mind my own brushstrokes.”

So where is Sir Tatterhelm the Talkative? Did he finally say the right thing to the wrong ear or perhaps the wrong thing to the right one?

Whether a prank, a portrait gone rogue, or something stranger, the mystery of the thirteenth portrait remains unsolved.


All the Craze for NATIONAL POETRY DAY
by Ruth Fairchild

Literature has always come in various forms. Many enjoy works of unique genres within fiction and non-fiction. However, if we race past the more common categories of literature, such as novels or short stories, and focus on others, we can explore the importance of poetry.

Poetry is a central part of mankind's history; it's used to entwine romantic words together and form a story of meaning that could be read so clearly, or simply be too illegible to understand. But all poetry is created – the word itself comes from the Greek word "poiesis", which means "making".

Due to poetry's significance, the Muggle agency UNESCO* established "World Poetry Day" in 1999. Its purpose was to encourage people to read, write, share, and enjoy poetry. Sure, you may protest that upon staring at a piece of empty paper, the words fail to come to you; well, there’s a catch: each year comes with a specific theme. The 2023 theme was 'Refuge', the 2024 theme was 'Home', and this year's theme is 'Play'.

Personally, the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about 'Play' is Shakespeare – a Muggle known for his diverse plays, though recognised most for his tragedies. Then again, 'Play' could simply refer to games or childhood memories like running around the garden with your siblings. The word itself has so many meanings, so it’s really just up to you to derive its meaning and come up with stanzas significant to you.

National Poetry Day was an event initially run by the Poetry Society, now organised by the Forward Arts Foundation. While there are now two poetry days to celebrate – World Poetry Day on the 21st of March, and National Poetry Day on the first Thursday of October – the latter has become the largest poetry celebration in the UK. Much like World Chocolate Day, there are plenty of ways to celebrate this event. Some of the early focuses included live readings, radio broadcasts, and television appearances, as well as poets performing in schools. Poetry has a deep historical role in Britain and Ireland, especially the latter for its bardic tradition in Chaucer, Shakespeare, the Romantics, war poets, and even modernists.

You see, poetry isn’t just about "pretty words" or something that you’re meant to study – it’s a way for people to express themselves, to explore, to heal, and to connect. Schools have been encouraged to use National Poetry Day to boost literacy and support creativity among students. With this year’s theme of 'Play', it permits experimentation and messing up, and that’s okay!

It’s an inclusive event for everyone to tackle strange forms and let their minds run wild. Poetry also ties into well-being, where the act of writing or performing poetry can be cathartic; listening to poetry being read is considered soothing and validating. I myself have been to many open-mic sessions where people step up onto makeshift stages and perform their poetry. It’s like a story being told to you, raw and true. If one has never had poetry read to them before, they’re missing out!

To commemorate National Poetry Day, my dear friend, Aurelia Valentine, has generously allowed me to feature one of her fantastic poems from her impressive collection found in the school shelves under the name, The Poets Might Disagree.

Out of the many that she has written over the few months she has been in Hogwarts, the one that I have chosen is my favourite by far. This one is titled “Scarlets”:

"Hey, would it ever be wiser
If I just drifted far away?
Along with enchanting waters
Of an azure mountain bay?

Would you ever know I'm lying
If I said "scarlets had scared me"?
Though it flow from my eyes, dripping;
From the depths of my soul, within me?

Resemblance of the past winters
Would it ever be forgotten?
Snowflakes that are made of splinters
Scarlets I desire, begotten."

There seems to be a general colour association of red with passion, violence, blood, and danger. Its emotional intensity is heightened because it moves from a simple, conversational "hey" directly into a tone of yearning and escapism – a clear longing for serenity away from inner turmoil. I really enjoyed this poem because of how intriguing it was to me – how there was just so much to unpack and so many layers to peel back. It’s almost unsettling how many questions remain unresolved, a fracturing of emotions. (Aurelia herself admitted that it was one of her favourites, though she wouldn’t specify why.)

And with Aurelia’s poem as an exemplar, I present to you why National Poetry Day is held as such a sacred event and why poetry itself is treasured, not just in Britain and Ireland but worldwide. The meanings and colours it brings to life are outstanding.


*United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization


Spilling Hogwarts’s Secrets: Vol. 1
by Lady Audentia

My dearest readers:

Although this is the primary iteration of the deepest, darkest revelations of our student populace, I implore you not to panic. This is the first volume of many, many hidden rumours. Keeping them in confidence would have greatly lessened the utmost fun we shall have, so I must first extend my gratitude to those who informed me of these horrible truths.

Now, I present what you have all been waiting for: everyone’s juiciest secrets.

The first person to lend me their name is none other than the Headliner’s brand new Editor-in-Chief, Silas Norwood. The young troublemaker came to Hogwarts equipped with a shiny set of chains, which sources tell me are straight out of Azkaban itself! Now, the young Mr Norwood is no renegade hero. The chains just so happen to be what remain from when he was incarcerated.

You tell me, dear readers: what horrific crime must the lawless tryhard have committed to have been imprisoned at such a young age?

I await your interpretations.

Next! One new member of staff does not come without his secrets, which shall duly be revealed. Jon Rebus Cantu, our new professor of Muggle Studies, is hardly as professional as we were led to believe. Rumour has it that he practises his lectures in front of a mirror—shirtless, no less!

One student reported hearing him say, “You’re brilliant. You’re brilliant, and they don’t deserve you.” Why they were peeping in on his shirtless sessions of self-confidence, I don’t know, but to each their own.

If you’re taking Muggle Studies this year, just bear in mind that your professor might need a pick-me-up. A little bit of kindness and complimenting goes a long way, for the record.

I’m not done. Hardly. There’s also first year Demitra Aragon, known among her peers for being, well, sensitive. I’ve received plenty of complaints from other students about her monopolising the real estate in the toilets. Something something, louder than Moaning Myrtle, something something. One older student stated that Aragon is always cavilling about some stupid scuffle and that her antics make the first years look bad. Others say she’s crying all the time.

I don’t judge. But I’m telling all of you so that you can judge freely.

There’s also one Archer Duncan, with whom I have some personal experience. I’m sure plenty of the loyal readers of the Headliner have gotten to know him. Petty, arrogant, withdrawn, and always—and I do mean always—scribbling the most horrible things in this journal of his. There has been a lot of speculation about what he is actually writing, but sources say that his mental state can’t be that great.

This just leads me to wonder: what exactly, does Mr Duncan have planned?

I have heard from a few older students of the horrors Hogwarts used to have happening, but I haven’t yet been unfortunate enough to witness these myself. Will Mr Duncan spice up the lives of everyone at school?

One source, who shall remain unnamed, said they were sitting behind Mr Duncan in class, and that they were able to read some almost threatening lines from his journal. He seems to be plotting attacks against other students.

With that in mind, all I can say is that to be safe, we must avoid him at all costs.

Just remember: the halls may be silent, but my quill is not.

XOXO,
Lady Audientia


Spirit Week
by Pericles Dralt

October marks the time-honoured tradition of dressing up for All Hallows' Eve!

This year, the spooky holiday lands on a Friday, meaning festivities would typically be pushed back until classes are completed for the day. The Headliner has received permission from Hogwarts staff to switch things up; not only will costumes be allowed throughout the day, but we've been permitted to designate the end of October as a Spirit Week. Don't be alarmed! This has little to nothing to do with actual spectres. In Muggle schools, a Spirit Week is a tradition in which students dress up according to a variety of themes, allowing for freedom of expression. We invite you to take a break from your house robes and get in the spirit starting Monday the 27th.

Monday Match Up: Wear a matching outfit with your friend(s) or pet. Have a go at mirroring fashions, hairstyles, or colour schemes. No, uniforms do not count.

Tuesday Type Day: Adopt a look you find attractive on others. This can be expressed through a specific style, copying your crush, or – for the most committed – Polyjuice of your paramour. Should you lack the necessary resources to steal your partner's identity, consider swapping outfits.

Wednesday Pyjama Party: As an excuse to halve one's morning prep time, students are invited to enjoy a leisurely day in night gowns or sets. Robes, (non-cursed) stuffies, and slippers are also permissible, but those attending Flying, CoMC, or Herbology class are expected to bring closed-toe shoes.

Thursday Game Gear: Don uniforms or equipment from your favourite sport. This can include your school gear or anything that commemorates your favourite team, player, or game. Please note that active Bludgers are NOT categorised as "accessories."

Friday Hallows' Eve: Between dinner and curfew, stop by the Headliner office in costume for a trick or treat. Visitors will have their choice between a classic Chocolate Frog or a surprise ticket draw, which may result in a gag gift or a jinx!


The Haunting of Hogsmeade Hollow: The Last Watcher
by Simon Kincaid

Have you ever found yourself wandering through Hogsmeade on a cold October evening – beyond the warmth of The Three Broomsticks and the sweet smells of Honeydukes? Hidden beyond the last lantern’s glow is where the trees grow thick and full and the silence hangs heavy. It is there you might find the tale of Hogsmeade Hollow. Heed the careful advice of the tale you are about to be told; this is a cautionary tale that many will hesitate to speak aloud.

Long ago, long before Hogsmeade became a village, the hollow was a sacred gathering place for witches and wizards alike who guarded powerful magic. Among these was a wizard named Thaddeus Carver, who would eventually come to be known as The Last Watcher. Thaddeus had been entrusted with protecting a hidden artefact that was said to hold the key to ancient and forbidden dark magic.

On one stormy Halloween night, a dark force attacked the hollow in search of the artefact in his protection. Thaddeus fought bravely but was overwhelmed. To protect the relic, he cast a powerful binding curse, one that trapped his own soul inside the hollow that forever tethered him to the land he swore to protect.

And since that night, Thaddeus’s spirit never left. They say he still wanders Hogsmeade Hollow – a figure in tattered robes with eyes that glow faintly silver in the darkness. He is known as the Watcher in the Hollow – The Last Watcher.

His duty was never truly fulfilled. The artefact had never been destroyed, only hidden, so The Last Watcher’s soul lingers out of purpose. He chose this fate, and the choices made with magic as ancient as the relic do not come without cost.

Some tell tales that the artefact stirs every so often in the village of Hogsmeade, and that is when The Watcher walks.

Wizards and witches who have encountered Thaddeus’s ghost tell a tale of a chilling silence that falls suddenly, followed by a cold breeze and the faint sound of footsteps behind them, though no one is there. Some say he’s warning intruders to stay away, while others believe he’s searching for someone worthy to lift his curse.

Many have tried to find the relic, but none have succeeded. Those who have attempted seem to become dizzy, disoriented, and even their most simple spells seem to fail them.

Some Hogwarts students claim that if you whisper Thaddeus’s name three times while standing at the edge of Hogsmeade Hollow on Halloween night, you might catch a glimpse of his glowing eyes watching from the shadows. If you do, be careful, because The Last Watcher might choose you as the next guardian – the next soul to be trapped in the hollow forever.

If you find yourself beyond the last lantern’s glow on a cold October evening and the wind goes suddenly still – turn back! The Last Watcher is already watching; turn away quickly, before he steps out of the dark.


Hogwarts, How Many Languages Do You Speak? (Part III)
by Archer Duncan

Welcome back to part three of our analysis of the multilingual community of Hogwarts.

Finishing out our representation of commonly spoken European language groups is the Slavic language, Bulgarian, which happens to be the native tongue of Professor Desislava Nenovsky and the primary language she speaks back home. To the foreign speaker, and to Nenovsky herself, Bulgarian is a complicated language, yet this happens to be her favourite part and has helped her with the other three languages she speaks. On the other hand, she said, it is its own separate language in both writing and speaking, which makes it difficult to master. As with the tradition we have established, I also learnt a useful idiom from her: “kato riba izvŭn vodata”, meaning “like a fish out of water”, which she found fitting for her multilingualism. Knowing her love for the ocean, I found it fitting as well.

The Divination professor also speaks Tahitian, a language many of our students may not have heard of before. It is spoken in French Polynesia, which is located in the South Pacific Ocean, between Australia and Chile. When I brought up the language’s exoticism, Professor Nenovsky provided this valuable piece of advice: “Never shy away from attempting to learn a language, as it may surprise you with how much you enjoy it.” In fact, although English was spoken where she lived, she chose to learn the language just to see if she could. Not only did this prove her linguistic skills, but it immersed her in a “home away from home”. Her anecdote shows that language truly is the bridge between cultures, and connections can be made from shared words.

Finally, I have interviewed two individuals adept at magical languages, the familiar faces once more, Professor Nenovsky, and Violeta Roux. The former learnt the language through the mermaid cultures she has met across the world. She also points out that on the French Polynesian island of Moorea Maiao, she often used it when interacting with sirens, which aided in her earning their trust. She also debunked the myth of the language being barbaric, which was only true above water. When submerged, she said, “the language is beautiful and flows mystically”.

The latter was different, having been born with the skill of Parseltongue, the ability to communicate with snakes. Ironically enough, she told me of her fear of snakes, which was how she discovered her ability: through screaming at the reptile to stop in the hissing language. More seriously, she also spoke on how they were often stereotyped as evil, which is untrue, and urged others not to make assumptions just because something was foreign.

To conclude our three-part analysis, I encourage you to not only find your own foreign language to learn but also explore the connections between them. Even if it is already your native tongue, I have learnt that you can never “finish” with a language. There is always something more to be explored, and, often, it is right under your eyelids, hiding in plain sight. Now, I hope I have inspired you to talk to your multilingual friends or look into languages for yourself; I must bid you goodbye, or as you might hear from Nenovsky, довиждане.


Around the Corner Like a Jumpscare - Hallowe’en Special
by Oonagh Brown

By the time you read this, it will be October and that means Hallowe’en is not far away. The time of Guising is almost within reach, and, therefore, I am particularly interested in any kind of plans you students have in order to make this day special!

It is a time of costumes and trickery, so how could I, like many others, not look forward to this day’s occurrence? Kids will dress up—and what is more? Free candy! Who could say no to that?! For this reason alone I had come up with a small survey for students to partake in as they pleased. It received a fair amount of interest and students’ opinions have poured in and allowed for this article to showcase the actual opinions of the students at this school—because apparently those matter to some of you.

Let us start this off with a few facts about Hallowe’en:
The name Halloween comes from the longer name of the festival “All Hallows’ Eve”, which is why sometimes it is written as “Hallowe’en”
Jack-o-Lanterns, the classic pumpkin-carved lanterns, were originally made from turnips!
Some very good sources (totally not me) tell me that our dear “Editor-in-Chief” is going to dress up as a unicorn for Halloween! This is totally true!

After that bit of trivia and juicy information, let us focus on some more fun things, like the students’ plans for this precious day. Most importantly: costumes!

The Classic Witch—and by that, they don’t mean to go as themselves. No, they mean the entity that Muggles think of when they hear the word witch. Another classic is throwing a bedsheet over your head and calling it a Ghost; another Halloween classic is the Zombie costume. Other ideas include only the best thing ever, a Pirate! Even better if you actually adapt the way you talk to how a pirate is meant to sound like.

Aside from that, some students seem to be planning to dress up as more niche references such as Puck the Fairy from some show and Cruella de Vil.

But, of course, Halloween is not just about costumes—it is also a time of mischief! So here are some pranking ideas you might consider using on your friends and enemies—pranks that go beyond the classic jumpscare or fake spiders or cobwebs! These ideas for trouble-making come from our readers:

Broom in a Blanket
This prank idea is for all the blanket ghosts and tricksters. Either make your broom invisible with a cloak or a spell, and make it seem like you are flying on your own. A variation includes doing this as a blanket ghost or throwing glitter as pixie dust.

Orange Outfits
Not by choice but by the help of magic. The submitter of this idea suggests turning other people's socks or clothes orange to spread the Halloween spirit to everyone, whether they want it or not! Best used on people who put little effort into dressing up!

Pretend Portrait
Ever wanted to block someone’s path and make it fashionable at the same time? Dress up as a portrait, come up with a password or riddle and block people’s passage unless they give a satisfying response. Bonus points if that blocked path happens to be a lavatory or entrance to a classroom!

Glued Grounds
Want to annoy someone and possibly ruin their day? Apply glue to surfaces or use a handy spell to do the job for you.


Samhain: A Celtic Tradition
by Matthew Campbell

While, in the modern age, we have many beloved rituals that make Halloween special, such as trick-or-treating and carving pumpkins, they all trace their roots to a much earlier celebration. Samhain, Samhainn, or Sauin, depending on which Celts you ask, was a Celtic pagan ritual marking the transition from the lightest to the darkest parts of the year in order to form their calendar. It wasn’t just symbolic — this turning point told them when to harvest, when to store food, and when to prepare for the long winter ahead. The year itself was split into a bright half and a dark half, and Samhain was the hinge between them. This day was seen as both the turning point of the year and a gateway, when the veil between worlds was thinnest and could therefore be easily crossed by fey and spirits. It was a time when loved ones hoped and believed they would see the dead, and where folks invented wild ideas to protect themselves from trickster fey.

One such idea was the very symbol we know for Halloween today: the pumpkin! Originally, the people of Scotland and Ireland couldn’t just pop over to the store to purchase a pumpkin, nor could they magically conjure one up from their gardens. In fact, pumpkins weren’t introduced to European soil until the 16th century. So, I know some of you are wondering if the tradition only started then? Fortunately, I have the answer, and you may be surprised to hear that the tradition has been around at least as early as the 5th century. The Celts, having no knowledge of or access to pumpkins, had been using other root vegetables during Samhain, most often turnips. Yet what was their purpose? Though attractive to look at, their power lay beyond just being decorative — turnips were carved with scary faces, which were illuminated, to ward off fairies, ghosts, and other creatures. How true these tales are is lost to time, but, as wix, we know such beings to exist, so it stands to reason that there is some truth to the myths.

Then we come to the childlike delight of trick-or-treating. As a child, I adored it! Today it’s mostly an excuse to get free sweets while ‘guising’ — dressing in disguise — which originally served a far more serious purpose. Children wore costumes to protect themselves, making it impossible for spirits or fairies to recognise them during the crossing. At night, children would roam the streets playing tricks upon their neighbours or trading jests for a sweet treat, just as we do now.

Because Samhain marked the start of the dark half of the year, bonfires were another essential part of the tradition, lighting up the darkness and warding off evil spirits.
They sparked friendly competitions between neighbourhoods and promoted a sense of unity and safety until sunrise, signalling the resealing of the veil until the following year.

Celts would light their hearth fires from these sacred bonfire flames, and feasts would be held around them. Offerings were made to both the living and the dead. Many believed the fires to have prophetic powers, and diviners would place nuts inside the flames, hoping for an even, quiet burn to represent happiness in the year to come. If the nuts hissed, it was a poor omen and your Samhain had tricked you after all.

Knowing our history is as important as looking to our future. Let it guide you, just as the spirits guided the Celts, and make sure that, if you’re the one feeling nefarious, you don’t end up the one who is tricked!


A Modest Proposal for the Revitalisation of Duelling Strategy Via Subterfuge
by Livia Machavariani

Every steadfast spectator of sports has their own reason for the utmost adulation they devote to their pastime of choice. Duellists I’ve spoken to have mentioned colours, intellect, ducks, and violence as the wide-ranging catalysts of their amour for the sport. Quidditch fanatics often reference the fame, but some have articulated affection for the team-focused nature of the sport. One said they simply like how shiny the Snitch is. Broom racers, for their part, have referenced the exhilaration, the freedom of fast speeds, and the variety of obstacles they must dodge.

What intrigues me is the lack of sentiment for strategy. It’s entirely possible for the most selfish of sportsgoers to have everything the players referenced; however, none of that is possible without a solid strategy. One that happens to lend itself to the self-serving is cheating.

Now, I am duly aware of what people will say. That’s quite unconscionable!, or, How reprehensible!

The outrage is, of course, understandable. However, it is important to think about the foundation of all sports, from the greatest pastime of the mind, chess, to even a ragtag scuffle between two abhorrent whippersnappers. This foundation is strategy.

Should you have studied politics or economics, you might be familiar with the notion of game theory. This is what we are discussing, albeit less seriously, as duelling is hardly a Machiavellian court… unless it were.

I propose that duelling teams begin to think of new and improved forms of subterfuge. Quidditch surpasses duelling in this capacity. If one is horrifically vexed by the prowess of an opposing team member, they needn’t wait for a Beater to get around to bludgering them. It’s well within proper strategy to shove them off the broom oneself. Of course, it is a risk—if the referee sees it, it’s a penalty lap—but sometimes, that penalty lap is just one means to the great end of victory.

Even broom racers will dose unwitting opponents with potions for victory. It’s just part of the game to them. The risk is worth the reward.

So why, then, do duellists not employ the beautiful act of cheating?

I did not deign to ask. Instead, I will make a short argument and let Hogwarts’s duelling captains decide to incorporate my well-devised strategy into their plans.

Cheating in duelling would require the utmost use of stealth or sleight of hand. Perhaps it could entail tampering with the piste—casting lubricus on it before the duel’s commencement would certainly make dodging a bit of a slippery endeavour for the other team, no?

Then there is the use of potions to consider. It’s not as if the referee is watching you get ready for the duel. A quick chug of a wit-sharpening potion, and I’d doubt you’d fail to cast a spell. Spiking the drink of an opponent with a forgetfulness potion? A bit crass, but effective all the same—they can hardly overcome you if they can’t remember how to use their wand. Sipping black-fire potion before a duel could render one nearly immune to the effects of incendio.

The possibilities are endless.

I am certain the students of Hogwarts will agree with me when I emphasise that duelling strategy would be far more entertaining if certain happenings could not be explained. Even better, for a team struggling to win, such underhanded techniques could provide the leverage necessary for victory.

All sports fans want to be victorious. Let’s prohibit “good sportsmanship” from stopping us.


Magical & Muggle Meals: Piquant Pumpkin Pips
by Aly Salinger

October each year brings about one of Hogwarts’s most recognisable and, honestly, predictable decorations. Whether they’re found within our common rooms, growing in the caretaker’s garden, or carved and placed strategically all around the Great Hall, the humble pumpkin is perhaps the most notable decoration for fall and Hallowe’en alike. Little do we know, however, that we’re walking by the main ingredient of a tasty snack every time we pass an uncarved pumpkin.

The pips, or seeds, of a pumpkin are not only edible, but are also delicious when cooked properly! This is even a recipe that lacks Muggle alternatives… because anyone can make this one, whether they are magical or lacking in that department. Best of all, to prepare them is nowhere close to difficult – and can also be quite fun. Let’s get crackin' (on the pumpkin, that is)!


Ingredients:

• 1 whole pumpkin*
• Olive oil
• Powdered garlic**
• Powdered cayenne pepper or curry powder, depending on your preference
• Salt

*If you acquire a pumpkin that has undergone Engorgio, the Engorgement Charm, the serving size may become anywhere from 8 to 60 people depending on the pumpkin’s final size.
**Replace with powdered onion if you intend on serving this recipe to vampires, to avoid potentially fatal or at the very least uncomfortable allergic reactions.

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Use a Severing Charm (or a knife) to carve out the top of your pumpkin. Carefully summon (or scoop) out all of the stringy guts and pips.
3. The pumpkin itself may be carved for a jack-o-lantern, or you may cook it – between pumpkin fizz, pumpkin juice, and pumpkin pasties, you certainly have your choice of what to do with the flesh!
4. Separate all of the seeds from the stringy guts. The guts may be thrown out; as for the seeds, simply wash them with a quick Aguamenti (or a light stream of water from a tap). Allow to dry.
5. Measure out your pumpkin pips. The rest of the recipe is for one cup of pumpkin seeds; if you have more cups of pumpkin seeds, multiply the recipe by another time for each additional cup. (For example, if you have two cups of pips, use 2x the amount of spices; use 3x if you have 3 cups of pips, etc.)
6. To one cup of rinsed, dry pumpkin seeds, add 1 tablespoon oil, ½ teaspoon powdered garlic, ¼ teaspoon cayenne or curry powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Toss well to combine.
7. Brush or spray additional oil onto a baking sheet. On the oiled sheet, spread out the spiced pips until they are in a single layer and spread evenly. (If you have multiple cups of seeds, give each cup its own tray.)
8. Bake the seeds until they are just slightly golden-brown and crispy (this should take about 15-20 minutes). Halfway through the time in the oven, toss the seeds so that the other sides are facing up. Watch them carefully – don’t let them burn!
9. Allow to cool mostly before eating. I recommend sticking a small pouch of these in your schoolbag so you have a snack if you get hungry or bored during your classes, as many students are bound to do in this midway point of our fall semester! Enjoy your piquant pips!

A Day To Wear Blue
by Meyra Lancaster

With the start of a new school year, and given all the incidents we've been witnessing recently in the wizarding world, I thought it appropriate to address a topic that may be sensitive for some of you, but which I believe is very important for us to give it proper attention and allow it space to be voiced and discussed. In bringing this issue to the Headliner, I'm doing what I assume to be my duty as a member of this school community to honor the Anti-Bullying Week.

I believe everyone knows what bullying is. It exists around us, and so, we must all stand united in fighting and stopping it. Not all aggression is physical and leaves visible marks; many times, it's words that leave the deepest scars. Bullying, unfortunately, takes many forms, like a multi-headed monster. Social assumptions, for example, often prove to be one of the main sources that fuel it in our world.

I'm speaking as an example, of all the dissemination of hate directed at those who, in the eyes of some, are seen as weaker, less deserving, or inferior. Over the past year, accusations from public figures and representatives of power have repeatedly given oxygen to the flames of old and ancient prejudices. With this voice, they have sought to divide us and, on some occasions, justified and actively disseminated cases of bullying that some have suffered and will continue to suffer until mentalities start to change. For those who don’t know what I'm talking about, just read the articles that appeared in the Daily Prophet after the tragic event in Hogsmeade last year, or when the news about the acceptance of other races in various wizarding schools was published.

But not all bullying has the same origins, and far be it from me to seek justification for such disdainful and petty acts. These actions have serious consequences for the victims, in terms of their mental health and well-being. Therefore, we must all lend our voices and contribute actively to ensuring that it ceases to exist in the spaces around us, especially at Hogwarts, a renowned school that should educate not only good professionals but also good citizens of the wizarding world.

I conclude this article by leaving you with a challenge. According to my sources, this tradition already exists in the Muggle world. I challenge everyone who supports this cause and wants to say no to bullying and all its forms of violence to wear blue on October 8th. Blue symbolises peace, solidarity, trust, and importance. This way, we can act together, giving voice and a stand against an issue that deserves to be discussed and heard, moving toward a safer school community, and building a culture of kindness and respect for all our differences.


Why Should We Uphold Tradition?
by Evpraksiya Vinogradova

Before we can speak on tradition, I believe it's paramount to understand what role it plays in our day-to-day lives. It's the scaffolding that holds our lives upright and the quiet architecture beneath every greeting, every celebration, and every note of music that drifts through a drawing room at dusk. Without it, we would be as loose pages, scattered wherever the wind of the day chose to blow. I have been raised among reminders of permanence, and from these I've learned that tradition is not a chain tethering us to a heavy iron ball but a lattice—something that steadies growth and lends meaning to the liberties we have today.

One of the most frequent mistakes I see people make is confusing tradition with rigidity, as if to honour the past is to deny the present. Personally, I find the opposite to be true. Tradition is not a tombstone; it's a conversation across centuries. See it like this: when I use composition techniques created long before I was born, I am not imprisoned by their rules. Rather, I am guided by them, adding my own arrangements. So too with social customs or family gatherings: they give us forms through which to express ourselves and remain the strong frames that shape our current art of character, rather than leaving us adrift in the identityless void many seem to struggle with as our society shifts.

Upholding tradition also can teach us reverence! We stand on layers of effort—of craftsmen, thinkers, and relatives whose names may have faded from history but whose work was a small stitch in advancing to a quilt. Any ancestral pure-blood home, for example, has an assemblage of wards interlaced through the decades, with more added in each subsequent generation. This becomes an archive of memory, one that keeps alive the same practices as when addressing an elder in the same tongue of their youth. It’s a way not to forget who we came from, creating a sense of belonging for many.

Moreover, tradition guards against the tyranny of impulse. Left solely to invention, we risk building harbours too fragile to withstand crashing waves against their foundations. Customs become harbours where we may moor ourselves when everything else seems uncertain. During times of grief or change, the familiar rhythm of an All Saints’ Day feast steadies the heart and assures us that we are part of a story larger than our present discomfort—or, at the very least, gives us something else to focus on for the time being.

Of course, that's not to say tradition is infallible! It merits scrutiny and occasional re-gilding so it may keep its lustre. But the impulse to discard everything older than ourselves is often an act of impatience masquerading as 'boldness'. To refine is noble. To erase indiscriminately is impoverishing. The wisdom is to distinguish between habits that are vestigial and ones that remain with purpose. I believe that even the former deserve a moment of silence before they are set aside, for they were once, in their time, earnest answers to the needs of an age long since past.

So, why do we uphold tradition? Because it holds the connection to our past, moors us to our present, and prepares us for our future. Just as it keeps our harbour steady when we reach for new heights, it’s also the patient companion of creativity, and the quiet promise that we’ll always belong to more than a transient, fragile moment. To honour tradition isn’t to bow to dust, but to keep alive the roots from which the future may still bloom.


How to Study Smartly & Effectively
by Violeta Roux

The start of a brand-new school year means new opportunities, a fresh start and many new students. Most of the time, students who obtain poor marks simply do not know how to study in order to acquire higher grades. In addition, many students who are hard-working also end up earning low scores, and do not understand the process. Hopefully, it might become a touch clearer after reading this article.

1. Students end up leaving things unfinished. This isn’t a healthy habit. If a pupil leaves something undone and says something along the lines of “I’ll finish this later”, they most likely won’t get the task done. So, simply think of it this way: sit down to start something, and only get up when you’re finished. If the ‘something’ is a long-term project or something along those terms, divide the long-term work into smaller tasks and get those done one at a time. Though don’t leave those half complete.
2. Plan. The best way to plan things is by getting a planner, something you can keep with you at all times. By planning ahead, students reduce stress and manage their time. When tasks are written down in a planner, people tend to avoid procrastination, simply because they feel more responsible. This is because every time a student looks at their planner, it’s a reminder of what needs to get done.
3. Create a study plan. Students stay organised through creating and keeping, of course, a study plan. A plan goes a step further by making time spent learning and studying more regulated.
4. Find an ideal space, preferably not your dorm room. When you study in the same place you relax in, you’ll likely end up relaxing without even realising it. Look for an ideal space—say, the library for example. There may still be the likelihood of feeling a bit pressured to study, but you will still feel more at ease.
5. Organisation. Keeping an organised workspace and preventing forgotten assignments reduces stress, boosts confidence and saves time. According to the Muggle school Princeton University, which is in America, “Previous research indicates that the degree to which a student’s workspace is organized can impact their academic performance. Current literature shows that an organized desk produces better focus and efficiency.”
6. Take effective notes and actively recall. When notes are taken and they are effective, actively recalling them will be more practical than just studying the content later and not paying any attention in classes.
7. Take breaks whilst studying. Cramming it all in just one session without any breaks certainly sounds like a nightmare. So, every twenty five minutes you study, take a five-minute break, for example. In these breaks, attempt not to get too distracted, go drink a glass of water or quickly meditate.
8. Spread out study sessions. Would you rather study two hours in a day or twenty minutes each day spread out in a couple of days? Ask yourself this, and once you respond, proceed with your final answer.

Studying effectively is a skill absolutely anyone can learn. Always remember that practise is how skills are best learnt. This school year is a fresh start for any and all students who are hoping to achieve more, which anyone can do. They just have to put in effort, focus, and commitment.

What Comes Next After the Fall of Four Houses?
by Simon Kincaid

On the evening of 19th October, in just one evening, Hogwarts changed. Within that one evening, Hogwarts lost four Heads of House. They have not vanished. They are not lost. They are gone—leaving behind their lessons in guidance, our own confusion, and a sense that something larger than all of us is moving within these castle walls.

It was supper when the unexpected news came to us all, spoken by Headmaster Lear. “It is not often that Hogwarts finds itself standing at the edge of an age,” he told us, “and rarer still when it must acknowledge such a change at once.” He then announced that Professors Galahad Browne, Caradoc Browne, Marcus Iwasaki, and Lesmana Asmaralaya would be stepping down from their posts—effective immediately.

A sharp silence fell over the Great Hall before being quieted by rising whispers.

In an explanation, Lear told us, “this is not a punishment, nor scandal, nor a sign of danger. They are stepping aside not out of failure, but because Hogwarts is changing, as it always does. Sometimes, the old magic requires room to breathe.” Those words were meant to offer reassurance, but left more questions than answers. What is Hogwarts preparing for? What trials await us? Who will guide the school?

In letter correspondence, some of the former Heads of House offered some personal insight into the situation and attempted to give clarity.

Professor Galahad Browne’s owl said, “I came to Hogwarts running—from enemies, from my past, but mostly from myself. Orion rebuilt me, piece by piece, until I could finally process my trauma and stop blaming myself. For the first time in many years, I felt worthy—of hobbies, of love, of life.” Professor Galahad Browne will now pursue his passion for animals and herbology. He’ll be nearby in Hogsmeade and promises to remain close to the castle and to us.

Professor Caradoc Browne didn’t fully admit to leaving us entirely either, unless he means to remain in spirit. He wrote, “Yes, I am all right and remain your steadfast Admiral. I’m stepping down to give myself time and remove myself from view. Hufflepuff has never been strong because of me. It is strong because of you—Hogwarts’ Backliners. Not through heroic gestures, but through the small kindnesses: the way you catch each other when no one else notices, the way you defend without bonds. Together, you must look after one another, like a family.”

Yet his letter also had a hidden riddle within it: Danger ministry. If I deciphered it correctly, it is not only confusing, but also concerning.

Headmaster Lear’s private response stressed that the castle’s shifting magic that he speaks of is not cause for despair but for preparation. “Magic, particularly old magic, often asks us to step aside so it can flow freely once more. Let the students know: Hogwarts is not adrift. It is simply preparing.”

One can feel the change when walking through the corridors. The castle itself seems to hum with a subtle energy that fills the empty spaces, and the portraits watch with interest at all who pass as if they sense the trials ahead. Who will rise to fill the gaps left by these familiar figures? Which students will emerge as leaders?

Perhaps that is the purpose of this shift. Hogwarts has always been more than its staff and the castle itself. It is us, the students—our courage, our empathy, our acts of loyalty. The responsibility to guide one another has already found us, and it doesn’t matter if it’s fair, and it doesn’t matter if it’s frightening.

If the Headmaster’s words are true, this is an invitation to rise. Let us step up in moments that demand kindness, bravery, and care.

So to all reading this, whether you wear scarlet, blue, green, or gold: look after each other, share your warmth, stay curious, remain alert, be brave enough to care, and be careful enough to listen.

Hogwarts has always been more than stone corridors and spellcasting. Things around us may be shifting, and if any indications from the Headmaster are correct, they are shifting towards us.


A New Age of Leadership
by Archer Duncan

As Hogwarts bids farewell to our past four Heads of House, we welcome four new ones: Professor Mori, Professor Lancaster, Professor Alarie, and Professor Sauber. Now that I have had the pleasure of speaking with each of them personally, I feel I have gotten to know them better, especially their motives and qualities. I believe that the rest of the student population also deserves such information, hence my introduction below.

Aiko Mori, Head of House of Gryffindor, hails from the far away Mahoutokoro, where she was once headmistress. According to her, she hopes to have a more direct connection with students. This may seem like a sudden change of career; however, according to Professor Mori herself, she is interested in a new direction. Professor Mori is a prime example of learning to step out of our comfort zone and trying new experiences, however daunting or unfamiliar they may seem. Being from another school completely, she has the potential to be our most influential lead in terms of reform and the introduction of new ideas. Professor Mori will certainly bring fascinating cultural value and teaching techniques to the Hogwarts table.

Jessamine Ophelia Lancaster, Head of House of Ravenclaw, was once our Professor of Study of Ancient Runes. Despite stating that she loves teaching, the professor decided that something else was of higher priority: safety. She has stressed that this is a growing concern of hers, and is unsatisfied by the fact that not every student feels safe in their common room, a place meant to offer comfort. It is indeed true that safety has become a rising issue at Hogwarts, if not a historical one. Balls have been repeatedly dangerous, from creature sabotages and stabbing attempts of the past to, more recently, the terrorist attack on Hogsmeade, where many lost their lives. Her mission will certainly be an honourable one.

Édith Françoise Alarie, Head of House of Hufflepuff, was promoted directly from the role of librarian. Due to her aptitude for helping children to learn, as shown in her tenure as librarian, she decided to apply for Head of House. Although she was never a subject professor, she has much to teach us, especially in her amount of healthy ambition. She shows us the quality of never being complacent and always striving for positions beyond what we think we are capable of, whether in studies, career, or life. Her high aspirations and hard work for success is one thing we can learn from her, and she will surely continue that in her administrative position.

Samuel Reinhard Sauber, Head of House of Slytherin, was once our Professor of Potions. Although he stated that he had no original intentions of assuming the position, when asked for his reasoning, it was clear that he believed in opportunism, stating that: “When possibility arises, one should extend it.” Influence, according to him, is a resource he is ready to use for securing the safety and future of Hogwarts’s children. Further explaining that emotion was not a factor that played into his decision and it was rather one based on effectiveness, Professor Sauber, whether as Potions Professor or Head of House, adds to the leadership team an admirable methodicalness. For teenage children commonly dramatically influenced by sentiments, he leads by example.

Students may have been unsure whether to clap or worry at our farewell to our old Heads of House, but, rest assured, we remain in fine hands. Times are always changing, and we must learn to adapt along with them. Although often viewed with apprehension, the radicalism a new leadership team could bring is a crucial catalyst for our progress forward. A new group of Heads of House ensure that our Hogwarts community does not grow complacent in the face of its past. They are not redefining what it means to be a leader, but rather showing us that we are always capable of something different, something more.

While this change of leadership may be unexpected, trust it to be a new step ahead for our school rather than an uncertainty holding us back. Please give our new Heads of House the welcome they deserve, and trust that they will live up to their predecessors, if not do an even better job.


Campfire Stories 101
by Oonagh Brown

I am serious, good stories are hard to come by, and making them up on the spot is a skill very few possess. Even fewer are able to show this skill off. And I understand that not everyone can be as awesome as I am, but why go to the opposite end of the spectrum and just be boring?

So, as this is the season of bonfires and huddling around the fireplace in the common rooms, I present you with a foolproof way to at least come up with an adequate story to tell, that has not been repeated for centuries to the point of becoming utterly predictable and boring. I'm really only doing myself a service with it because I am tired of people boring me to death when I am trying to chill in the common room. So maybe you can learn something and become at least adequate at being an interesting enough person to tell fun stories.

Campfire stories are short and tend to cause a reaction, so you need to remember not to ramble on and get to the point, because no one will appreciate it if you talk for an hour and no one else gets a turn to tell their story. You want the story to take about 5-10 minutes to tell.

Secondly, you need to pick a genre for the story. What sort of reaction do you want to your story? Do you want people to laugh until their breath runs out? Do you want them to cry because you shattered their hearts? Or do you want them to be inspired to go out and defeat dragons and sail across seas? This is probably the most important aspect of a self-made story, because if you don't know what you want to achieve with the story, then maybe you should not be the one telling the campfire story.

Depending on the story, you need to come up with characters and a fun or engaging enough plot that keeps people listening. This can, quite literally, be anything. Let your imagination run wild! You need to introduce your characters and the objective of the story, be it a treasure hunt or solving a mystery. Let listeners know what the goal is, and then have the characters try to achieve said goal. Throw a few obstacles in their way, such as the teddy bear having to escape a pack of wolves, or an evil goose stealing the map to the chocolate fountain.

Before they achieve or fail their goal, you will want to include something major – a final battle or a plot twist that shatters expectations, something worthy to follow up with the completion of the story. Then, you want the story to end, and if you did well, you will have done everyone a favour in actually telling a fun and interesting story.

To put this to the test, the Headliner will host a little competition in which you can do your worst or best at coming up with your own short story. The winners of the competition will have the honour of having their stories printed in the first issue after the winter holidays! There will be two categories for which you can submit stories: “Funny Adventure” and “Wholesome Mystery”.

Why so sappy? Well, because the overall theme is meant to be Cosy Bonfire, after all!


“Doxxing”: Not Just a Muggle Term!
by Aly Salinger

As of late, Hogwarts has been swept with the term “doxxing” – a Muggle word with, allegedly, little to no use in the magical world. Those who did not grow up with any access to Muggle technology might be just as confused as I was upon hearing this particular term being said for the first time, by Muggle-born or half-blood friends in hallways, courses, or sports. Luckily, we here at the Headliner have conducted the necessary research to explain this Muggle word – and its surprising magical meaning.

“Doxx” is a verb in nature, and is usually done to a person; to “doxx” someone is to reveal their identity, often in an unpleasant manner or to persons who did not previously know it. This is most commonly utilised on the Muggle inter-net, which is likely a system of netting connecting the identification cards of every Muggle person, if I am understanding this correctly. (The netting must be quite strong to wrap around the whole world! Also, perhaps it is invisible, because I have never seen this net myself.) Essentially, if one finds another person’s identification card on the netting and then shares their information with others, the owner of the card has now been “doxxed”.

As you can imagine, dear reader, this is a most irksome incident for the person whose identity has been revealed. Imagine if they were an undercover government agent! Or simply if they preferred to keep their middle name a secret! This would be rather annoying and could even be fear-inducing, indeed.

In the wizarding world, however, there is little use for “doxxing”, first and foremost because we lack this netting system that Muggles seem to have adopted for storage of identification. Sure, you could spill someone’s secret to those you know, but it seems to lack the same allure and fearmongering that “doxxing” in the Muggle world might carry.

Upon doing some historical and linguistic investigation into the term, though – we at the Headliner would like to extend a most gracious thanks to Miss Alarie for assisting us in our search and finding some books for us before she left the library for the comfort of the barrelled Hufflepuff commons – a shocking revelation has come to light. It seems that magical folk actually invented the term “doxxing” in the early 19^th century, and its significance is entirely different from the Muggle term we have come to know today!

According to Creature Comeuppance, published in 1813 by one Lord Seymour Cruttwell, “doxxing” is an excellent way to utilise magical creatures to inflict pain on one’s worst enemies. If you haven’t guessed by now, “doxxing” is the practice of siccing a doxy (or a swarm of the pests) upon someone, usually by hiding it in their clothing, shoes, or handbag. Cruttwell states in his (admittedly quite dark and torture-praising) book that “that wretched doxy is a plague upon us all; prithee, let it serve thee well rather than burden thee. Its venomous bite and most keen teeth are potent weapons against a person of ill-repute, and though one cur might suffice, the employment of several doxies shall surely wound and vex thine foe beyond measure”. He does also warn, however, that doxies are not to be trifled with: “Pray, be mindful that the beastie doth not nip thee whilst thou art coercing it into thine enemy’s habiliments.”

Of course, in modern times, doxies are still considered pests, but more of a common household kind rather than something one might use to hurt someone. Still, even in the early 1800s, there were manners in which someone could be rid of a doxy. Though we are unsure as to the specific date on which the Knockback Jinx was found to be particularly effective against doxies, the potion Doxycide was invented by Zygmunt Budge hundreds of years before the publication of Cruttwell’s book. Granted, it’s unlikely that people in the early 19^th century simply carried around doxycide – though maybe they should have started doing so, so as to avoid getting “doxxed”!

Despite their more modern status as a simple annoyance, we at the Headliner do not endorse the “doxxing” of anyone, whether in the Muggle sense of the word or in the magical one. Revelations of identifications are about as fun as finding a doxy in your undergarments – that is, not at all! As such, we ask that students utilise this knowledge in a purely academic sense and not practically. It is always most interesting to discover the meaning of words through research… and less so to discover the meaning via hands-on experience! Please note that any student caught “doxxing” another (in either sense of the word) will be subject to detention or other punishments.


Spilling Hogwarts’s Secrets: Vol. 2
by Lady Audentia

Greetings and salutations, my dear readers!

I come today with a bone-chilling prolongation of my last article. As I am certain you’ve anticipated, I bring even more scintillating information about Hogwarts’s least fine.

The first individual up for discussion is none other than Oonagh Brown – yes, that Oonagh. The Gryffindor Quidditch player with more hair than intellect. Of course, I’m unsurprised by the information that has come to light, though I worry this revelation might shock some of our more sensitive readers. However, the truth is of the utmost importance, so I will continue.

Miss Brown blew up half of the restricted section in the library. Now, if you hadn’t heard about this, don’t worry, as it was covered up almost immediately! Talk about censorship! However, I have eyes and ears everywhere, so I can bring you the truth you deserve to know.

I do hope no irreplaceable tomes were damaged in her antics!

On a less physically destructive note, I am pleased to inform any older students looking for a girlfriend that it seems one Bailey Glade is single again. She has seemed far less cheerful than usual; upon interrogating one of my many sources, I have ascertained that Kim Sato has broken up with her. How disappointing… I suppose you can’t have everything!

It really does seem like students have had a trend of crying this autumn. Thankfully, I’m not one of them, but a most reputable source informed me that Camille de Varenne had a breakdown at the Three Broomsticks last month. For such an image-obsessed diva, he really does seem to struggle to keep it together, no? I lacked the luck to witness it myself, but just imagine – mascara streaking down his face as he screams because daddy doesn’t buy him what he wants. Boo, hoo.

Well, don’t be too mean to Mr de Varenne. Not all of us can control the water works.

There is, of course, news from last month’s ball to be reported – the most splendiferously scandalous subject matter, in fact!

First and foremost, I must report on Miss Alyssa Salinger. You might know her as an older Ravenclaw or a seasoned reporter for the Headliner. It appears that her date to the ball simply abandoned her – now, she might be a bit holier-than-thou, but even I hadn’t imagined she might be that undesirable! He might have been driven off by her sudden spurt of egotism; apparently, Miss Salinger tore her designer dress apart! What self-respecting member of wizarding society would perform such an abhorrent act!? I must say, I don’t blame her date for leaving her.

For another ball story, we could question why Koldovsoretz headmaster Aulis Vorozheykin appeared half-naked – the theme was pirates and the ocean, not the wild! Perhaps my standards are too high, but he had every opportunity to be a swashbuckler, and he squandered the chance.

Of course, this would hardly be an article professing the truth if it did not reveal something about our Editor-in-Chief Silas Norwood. Perhaps it would be a bit uncouth to directly call him a cow, but what am I meant to do when he eats grass? It seems to be due to his recent discharge from the role of prefect. Fitting, as he produced a bladed article and threatened someone! However, eating grass to cope seems a bit savage, doesn’t it?

As always, our time together must end, but I look forward to divulging more tantalising truths next month! Remember: I see and hear all.

XOXO,
Lady Audentia


The Ethics of Journalism
by Anonymous

Throughout our 44 issues of the Hogwarts Headliner, never once have we discussed the pillars of journalism: its ethics and standards. As writers of the Headliner, we are, to some degree, journalists, and therefore the principles of ethics and good practice apply to us as well. We hold power, and that power must be guided in just directions. For relevance and context, I shall do my best to summarise the roughly 400 codes with justice.

The moral compass of our paper, ethical journalism, draws the fine line between informing the public and manipulating them. In order to ensure that the pursuit of truth is done with integrity, accountability, and fairness, ethical journalism is built on five foundations:

1. Truth and Accuracy: A journalist’s most base yet most sacred duty, reporting is a pursuit of truth. Unless stated as fiction, every story must be built on verified facts, including double-checking, cross-referencing, and correcting factual errors. Gossip certainly has no place in a paper with a circulation like the Headliner. The imperative to be right must always prevail.

2. Independence: journalists must remain free from serving outside powers or patrons, or sponsors. The media is of public interest, and must resist pressure from other forces. We are representatives of Hogwarts’s and the world’s reality, not lap dogs.

3. Fairness and Impartiality: while the Headliner does publish opinion pieces, all factual reports must remain free from personal opinion and their unfair influences. All relevant sides of the story must be written on and all bias or prejudice avoided. The world must be represented as what it is: a contradictory reality.

4. Humanity: journalists must remember that they are writing stories about people. They are our fellow humans, not mere characters for us to analyse, discuss, or derive entertainment from. There is a balance between the people’s right to knowledge and the individual’s right to privacy. No slander, no graphic images, no identification of vulnerable sources may be published.

5. Accountability and Transparency: journalists must hold themselves and their institutions to the same high standards they demand of others. They must be accountable to their audience and transparent in their process and possible mistakes.

While the Headliner is not a publisher of diabolical columns, there is a reason I have come to address this issue.

Recently, it has come to my attention that the Headliner has produced a slandering piece. This, unfortunately, is not even the first in an installation of “rumours” that have been the fad as of late. Foremost, as an obvious breach of truth and humanity, this breaks multiple foundations listed above, which eventually would only cause the entire article to crumble. It treats the students and professor mentioned as a source for entertainment, while also being false in the first place. I, representing my team and the author, issue a formal apology to those affected. I warn the readers that another such article will be published—please disregard it.

Remember: slander is not a means to gain power but an indicator of the lowliest of behaviours. It is a tool saved for those who find their argument too weak to stand on its own merits and their character too hollow to engage in earnest debate. To wield slander, deliberately twisting the truth to destroy someone’s reputation, is a coward’s act that confesses one’s own intellectual and moral bankruptcy.

To spread information is the greatest honour, privilege, and power in society, and, with such, comes an even greater responsibility. We will forever stand to support the truth, forever shared ethically.


Newsflash
by Oonagh Brown

Pirate Dreams & Treasure Troves
As everyone who does not live beneath a rock would know, this year’s fall theme was inspired by pirates, sirens and the enchanted depths of the ocean. It even came with its very own treasure hunt and pirate vessel, and it was put together near the Great Lake. As your dutiful researcher, I have tried and tested all the buffet options quite thoroughly and can let you know that the food and drinks were a delight.

We got introduced to Captain Bartholomew Vane and his ship the “Lost Pearl” which would serve as the main gathering and buffet area. Alongside the Lake’s shores you could quite literally dance across the water’s waves, a clever trick that felt real enough to sell the illusion. The Drowned Palace invited students to look for lost treasures and truly embrace their inner pirates, scouring the lands for precious trinkets and gold.

Setting Fashion Trends
Through journeying and travelling the world one Cyrus Darsel – the guy who handed out ducks in an effort to make International Rubber Ducky Day a thing – is trying to introduce and inspire the world to his quirky sense of fashion. He takes orders via owl post and will sell handmade accessories to those willing enough to be wooed by his craft and willing to adopt said trinkets to their style. I am sure there will be many duck themed items for sale, so reach out to the setter of fashion trends if you are interested.

The 5th Hestridge Winter Charity Gala
Who knew that Wizarding World Charity Galas were a thing? Well, apparently, they are, and even more apparently, this one has been a thing for at least four years, making this one the fifth! Apparently, though, they are very “exclusive” in the way they have been handing out their invites. Kind of ironic, though unsurprising.

Their goal is the awareness for and the extension of part-human rights, which appears to be a fairly noble cause within this magical world, or so people who grew up apart from it are quick to learn.

Quidditch Quandries
Or should I say Captain Quandaries? How many changes amongst captains have there been, huh? Both Slytherin captains quit at the same time, after just one game. That could hardly be a coincidence. This leaves the Slytherin team in the air, so to speak, and promises plenty of weak links for other players to pick the team apart and out of the sky in further games. Not that Slytherin would have stood a chance against Gryffindor regardless of any drama behind the scenes. That would just be their wishful thinking.


Magical & Muggle Meals: Beautifichicken
by Aly Salinger

With the success of the summer’s Forgetfulness Potion Ice Cream – at least, we think it was successful; we might have forgotten – our Headliner readers have been clamouring for more ways to combine our favourite brews and concoctions into delicious meals. Well, do we ever have another one for you: Beautification Potion Butter Chicken, also known as Beautifichicken!

Beautifichicken is a perfect wintry meal in so many ways. Not only will the warm, delectable spices help to stave off the cold outside, but the added Beautification Potion is sure to keep a delightfully rosy flush to your cheeks, make sure your skin doesn’t get dry and cracked, and maintain a luscious shine to your lips, eyes, and hair all throughout the snowy season!


Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless fire-breathing chicken** (*chicken)
• ⅓ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon grated garlic
• 1 piece cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• 2 teaspoons garam masala or similar spice blend
• 2 tablespoons dragon milk butter (*cow butter)
• ⅔ cup heavy dragon cream (*heavy cream)
• 1 small onion
• 1 cup canned tomato purée
• 1 bottle Beautification Potion***

*Denotes Muggle alternative.
**Preferably dead, as handling a live fire-breathing chicken is likely to result in burns.
***If making Muggle version, simply omit entirely.

Directions:

1. Combine ginger and garlic. Set aside.
2. Chop chicken into 1-inch pieces. (Thoroughly wash hands and space before and after.) Marinate chicken pieces in lemon juice, paprika, and ¼ teaspoon salt; let sit for 20 minutes in a cool place (*refrigerator).
3. Add Greek yogurt, ½ of ginger-garlic mixture, 1 teaspoon garam masala, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Allow to sit in cool place (*refrigerator) for an additional half-hour, or longer for deeper flavour (up to 12 hours).
4. Chop onion (discarding skin) and sauté in 1 tablespoon olive oil for 5-10 minutes until golden. Allow to cool, then combine with tomato purée, ⅓ cup cream, and ¼ cup water; use your wand or Muggle blender to combine fully.
5. Remove chicken from cool place and allow to reach room temperature while you perform steps 6 and 7.
6. Melt butter in a cauldron over a low fire, then stir in remainder of ginger-garlic mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then extinguish fire and add chili powder, remainder of garam masala, cumin, and blended tomato mixture.
7. Stir well to combine. Put cauldron back on fire (turned to medium-hot) until it boils, then reduce flame to low and cook, stirring occasionally to avoid burning until the sauce has thickened. Once thick, add 1.5 cups hot water and allow to simmer for 10 minutes. Add more hot water to thin out as needed.
8. In a different cauldron while the sauce is simmering, add some extra butter or oil (just enough to cover the bottom) and cook the chicken pieces over a medium flame. Fry each piece in cauldron until marinade is dry and chicken is cooked through, turning as necessary so as to not burn them!
9. When sauce is simmered and thick and all chicken has been cooked, add chicken to sauce. Put lid on cauldron and allow to simmer for 5-10 minutes, then add sugar and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir to combine.
10. Take cauldron off of flame and stir in remainder of cream and Beautification Potion, then serve over rice or naan. Enjoy your newly warmed stomach and your newly beautiful face!

Toasty Treats to Fight Off Cold Noses
by Alyss Gilmour

As the chill infiltrates the air we breathe, the frost settles onto every surface each night, and our noses turn cold whilst going for a walk, we search for the proper ways to escape the numbness creeping into our fingers and toes. Luckily, I have the perfect answer: toasty treats! Treats can come in a variety of forms, and their definition and standards depend on the person. Mine, which we will be following throughout this article, are as follows:

1. It must have enough sugar to make your parents purse their lips together in slight disapproval.
2. It must either be warm or room temperature; it cannot be cold.
3. It should leave crumbs, a stickiness, or sugary residue somewhere it shouldn’t be. That is how you know you enjoyed it.

Now, on to the fun! I’ll be letting you know what is worth buying that fulfils all of these requirements around Hogwarts. Let’s start in Diagon Alley. When it comes to shop options, we’re rather limited—Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour only sells treats for the summertime, giving us nothing to properly enjoy during the colder months, unless you want a brain freeze. The other option in Diagon Alley would be found in Dogweed and Deathcap. Not the place I expected either, but bear with me. Cherries! Although cherries may feel rather strange for a toasty treat, this little storefront still has more to offer! They have a wide range of ingredients that can be used in a couple of recipes: camomile, cinnamon, lavender, mint, and more! Overall, Diagon Alley leaves something to be desired in terms of available toasty treats. 4/10.

Next, we visit Hogsmeade. This place has a wide variety of shops, and quite a few are absolutely sure to offer the most delectable treats. I’ll be skipping The Three Broomsticks; despite some hope I had going in, they only offer a Butterbeer pint and jerky nugget. I find that to be rather disappointing, so onwards we travel to locate some more pleasing offerings. Honeydukes! Honeydukes offers a wide variety of candy, certain to boast an astounding sugar count and leave you with sticky sugar somewhere. I find it to be an excellent choice for your treats, though none are served as warm as I’d have hoped.

Now, we step through the alleys of Hogsmeade, and I’m delighted to report that I believe the very best toasty treats available to Hogwarts students have been located: Madam Puddifoot’s Tea Shop! This cosy little cafe offers cupcakes and cakes galore, along with warm tea and accompanying pastries. But my personal favourite would be the cappuccino and cinnamon roll. You can go ahead and hand the cappuccino over to an older student or parent who actually enjoys the bitter taste of coffee. Blegh. And you, my dear comrade, can enjoy the lovely dessert that comes with it: the sugary, warm, and—of course—tasty cinnamon roll. As a treat connoisseur, I am proud to state that we have found our winner! Checking all three boxes, Madam Puddifoot’s leaves little to desire. Pop on over to the place today! I hope to see you all there, during these hard times of frosty windows and chilly fingers.