Last week I was initiated into the world of theme parks when I visited Orlando for the launch of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Not being a fan of speedy rides - it's a middle ear condition, honest - my last fairground experience was in Morecambe in 1983, so it was in the name of work and duty that I sat beside Jo Rowling on the Dragon Challenge and the Forbidden Journey rides. Inner ear aside, both were amazing, the Forbidden Journey a particular highlight and a must-do for Harry fans and theme park aficionados alike.

Later in the day at the launch, Jo walked the red carpet, met fans, supped Butter Beer at the Three Broomsticks, listened to the Orlando Philharmonic perform music from the Harry Potter movies, conducted by composer John Williams, and ended the evening in Hogwarts Castle. And yes, uplifted by the excitement and energy of the evening, we did ride again!

These are gloomy economic times, but I realised in Orlando how important it is to have fun and fantasy in our lives, whether it be through books or the physical realisation of an author's world.

Blogger: Mark Hutchinson