Scotland considering J.K. Rowling statue

EDINBURGH, Scotland, Aug. 16 (UPI) -- Edinburgh, Scotland, officials are considering erecting a sculpture of J.K. Rowling to honor the British author's achievements with her Harry Potter series.

The Edinburgh City Council is compiling a list of natives to be considered subjects for public works of art and Rowling's name may be on the list along with the likes of Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the Scotsman reported Monday.

"There may be a case for new public art celebrating the contribution of modern day figures to Edinburgh life, such as J.K. Rowling and Harry Potter's links to Edinburgh," said Donald Anderson, city council leader.

The idea is popular in literary circles.

" ... She's a huge literary figure who has single handedly re-invigorated the children's market and encouraged so many children to take up reading again," said a spokeswoman for Waterstone's book chain.

Tory group leader Iain Whyte, however, thinks it's too early to honor Rowling.

" ... We have a tradition in Edinburgh of waiting until people have died before we put up a statue to them and I think perhaps it would be best if we continue that tradition," he said.