SMART LIST: Pop culture talking points

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The new "Harry Potter" movie may be delayed, but at least we can talk about: "The Tales of Beedle the Bard."My boss can't stop talking about: Britney Spears' "Circus."Let's again talk about: "Wanted."You should have been talking about: Animal Planet's "Living With the Wolfman"Beyonce will be the reason people talk about: "Cadillac Records"If you cant wait, there is a way to talk now about: Doubt.Oscar watchers may want to talk about: Waltz With BashirSpeaking of movies based on Tony Award-winning plays, you could also talk about: Frost/Nixon.The remake comes out next week, but its a good idea to first talk about: the 1951 classic The Day the Earth Stood StillYouve been waiting and now you can talk about: Kingdom Hearts Re: Chain of Memories

The new "Harry Potter" movie may be delayed, but at least we can talk about: "The Tales of Beedle the Bard."

( Children's High Level Group / Arthur A. Levine Books )

By Denise Martin

The new "Harry Potter" movie may be delayed, but at least we can talk about: "The Tales of Beedle the Bard."

It's J.K. Rowling's new book of short fable-style stories set in 16th century Muggle society, a time before the wizarding world went into hiding (as they are in the "Harry Potter" novels). Thankfully, Professor Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore puts the collection in context for modern Muggle readers, noting that "Beedle was somewhat out of step with his times in preaching a message of brotherly love for Muggles." (Thursday)

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