The Unauthorized Harry Potter Lexicon Case: Could someone explain this to me, please?

[lillbet]

They mentioned the Harry Potter Lexicon case this morning on Today, but I didn't have time to wait for the segment. Basically, it sounds like some fan!guy (who publicized fake spoilers, by the way) wants to publish his version of a lexicon and Rowling has filed a restraining order and is upset because she was planning to publish an encyclopedia based on the books.

I have to say, after reading a bit about this online, that I am absolutely baffled at Vander Ark's audacity. He claims to love the series, and respect the author according to the open letter on his site, yet he is pretty much dicking Rowling out of her right to publish the definitive work based on her own ideas. And since it's unauthorized (ie being done without Rowling's approval), that should pretty much put the kibosh on it, I'd think.

Am I missing something?

If so, could someone explain it to me, using nice language and small words that won't hurt my brain?

Thank you. :)

Comments

[eumelkeks.livejournal.com]

Where have you been the last months? :p

[lillbet.livejournal.com]

Not on CoS :P

I remember this coming up at one point- I was sorta turned off by all the whining because, I'm sorry, I think Vander Ark is a giant ass for saying how much he adores Rowling and then, basically, ignoring her wishes- but I got turned off by the around and around of the arguing.

I wasn't thinking much of it, really, until it showed up on Today. It's one thing to have this all going on online, but that's pretty close to it being an RL thing.