The big news this week is, of course, the release of the seventh and final (so they say) installment in the Harry Potter saga - Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. And, for those readers closer to Orillia then downtown Toronto, you may want to check out the Leacock Summer Festival Reading Series, which begins today and ends on Sunday.

Tuesday, July 17th:

Coffeehouse Cabaret: Spoken word and music open stage. Featuring Timothy Carter and hosted by Mike Bryant.
Renaissance Cafe. 9pm. Free.

Wednesday, July 18th:

The Diamond Cherry Reading Series presents the Hear the News Show. Dwayne Morgan, Mike Smith and Strong entertain with intelligent and engaging spoken word. 'Name That Poet' contest returns, along with open mic stage. Hosted by Edward Nixon.
Renaissance Cafe. 8pm. PWYC.

Thursday, July 19th:

Diaspora Dialogues presents the second in a series of readings from their new anthology, TOK: Writing the New Toronto. Featuring readings by Kerri Sakamoto, Fereshteh Molavi, Tasleem Thawar and Dolly Reisman. Informal reception to follow.
TYPE Books. 7pm. Free.

Friday, July 20th:

Harry Potter Midnight Magic with Indigo Books. Be among the first to get your copy and start reading. All Indigo, Chapters and select Coles stores will host exciting Midnight Magic events and activities. Contact your local store for start times. Bay Street will close and be transformed into Diagon Alley, Toronto's version of the Knight Bus will be accessible, magic shows, animal shows, and The Satellites will perform.
Various Indigo/Chapters/Coles Locations. 8pm. Free.

Harry Potter Book 7 Midnight Release Party. Get Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows FIRST! Their Book 7 Bash will include Harry Potter themed refreshments, performances (including magical performance by Mysterion the Mind Reader), psychic readings, prizes, etc...
The Toy Space Inc. 9:30pm - 12:30am. Cost of book.

Saturday, July 21st:

Toronto Poetry Slam presents the Canadian Festival of Spoken Word team qualifier finals. Finalists include Krystle, Arianna, Tomy Bewick, Truth Is, Amanda, The White Noise Machine, Gypsy Eyes and Jill Binder.
Hugh's Room. 8pm. $5

Toronto Women's Bookstore invites you to its Annual BBQ and Book Sale. Veggie/meat burgers will be served up hot and fresh, as well as drinks and sweets, plus, performances, music and great savings on most of their stock.
Toronto Women's Bookstore. 12-5pm. Free.

Sunday, July 22nd:

The HAUNTED FISHTANK returns with poetry, spoken word, live music, performance art and comedy. Bands welcome for acoustic/low electric sets (no drum kits, but bongos/congas, etc. welcome).
Gladstone Hotel, Melody Bar. 9pm. Free.