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Harry Potter readers can be split into four distinct types, according to research by an academic.
The Daily Telegraph reports that each type conforms closely with one of the four houses found in Harry's school Hogwarts, Professor Stephen Brown of the University of Ulster said.
His research found 'Hufflepuff' readers take the tales at a slow, steady and systematic pace and enjoy re-reading the books over and over. 'Gryffindor' readers are eager and energetic and will devour the latest Potter book in one sitting, but quickly move on to new things. 'Ravenclaws' are subversive and take the stories with a pinch of salt, while 'Slytherin' readers are not fussed about the books. They prefer the films but pretend to have read the books when it suits them.
Professor Brown said: "What we noticed was that the different types of readers were incredibly close to the characteristics of the four houses in the books. It was surprising but it made sense.
"Only the Hufflepuffs are totally loyal to Harry, the Gryffindors are already moving on to other things, the Slytherins never really liked him anyway and the Ravenclaws are too busy writing their own fan fiction or posting spoof videos on YouTube."
The less committed types will now begin deserting Harry Potter, jeopardising sales, he said. "It is an interesting time in the development of the Potter brand because a lot of people have moved on. It will only be people who revel in his world who will continue with their admiration of the brand," he forecast. "It is at an interesting juncture because the main story has finished and the tension has gone.