A reported twelve million copies have already been printed. Like the new iPhone, the release is to be choreographed.

However, when the new Harry Potter book goes on sale at exactly 12:01 a.m. in each U.S. time zone, it means that those in Los Angeles will only have access to the book three hours after the people in New York. Worse yet, the book will go on sale at 12:01 a.m. in the U.K. Or just 7:01 p.m. for New Yorkers.

The result, with the instant aspects of the web, is that European readers could post the denouement on the Internet before Americans have even had a chance to buy a copy of the book. Avid Potter fans may need to completely close themselves off from the rest of the world if they want to have the latest Potter plot line unspoiled.

Many are truly concerned about the public ruining the plot line for readers. The Leaky Cauldron Web site is attempting to keep folks clean by keeping book discussions focused on whether the book has a good ending and if readers are satisfied that the book wraps up the prior loose ends. The site will have warnings galore that direct discussions of specific actions in the book not be published publicly.

The Associated Press appears ready to honor the public interest. The AP is insisting that any summary of the plot line released by the agency will be written so that no major secrets are revealed.

And author J.K. Rowling has weighed in. She is also putting out strong statements in hopes that the ending will not be spoiled for the many loyal fans of the Harry Potter series.

The book is scheduled to be released July 21st.