Here’s a look at some upcoming book events in the area:

• Release party for the newest Harry Potter novel, “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, Oread Books, Level Two, Kansas Union, KU campus. The event will include drawings for $20 gift certificates and giveaways of collectible Harry Potter caps and buttons. DVDs of the previous two Harry Potter films will be available and will be screened on a 22-inch, high-definition display.
• 10:30 p.m. Friday, Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 420 W. 47th St., Kansas City, Mo.: Blow-out release party for “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.” Numbered tickets will be distributed to hold your place in line. Harry Potter crafts and games will keep patrons busy until midnight, when the books will go on sale. For more information, call Lesley at (816) 561-4114.
• 8 p.m. June 27, Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 420 W. 47th St., Kansas City, Mo.: Author and food historian Mary Gunderson gives a talk and booksigning for “The Food Journals of Lewis and Clark.”