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Harry Potter: A History of Magic Exhibition
Harry Potter: A History of Magic: The eBook of the Exhibition
The official companion book to the special exhibition Harry Potter: A History of Magic, featuring an extraordinary treasure trove of magical artifacts, original drafts and drawings by J.K. Rowling, and additional material exclusive to the US run of this unforgettable exhibition!
As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in the US, readers everywhere are invited to explore the extraordinary subjects of the Hogwarts curriculum – Potions & Alchemy, Divination, Care of Magical Creatures, and more – and examine incredible historical artifacts, items from J.K. Rowling’s personal archive, and stunning original artwork from Harry Potter series artists Mary GrandPré, Jim Kay, and Brian Selznick.
Published in conjunction with the special exhibition Harry Potter: A History of Magic (coming to the New-York Historical Society after a record-breaking sold-out run at the British Library), this complete catalogue of the over 150 artifacts on display gives readers an up-close look at magical treasures from all over the world. Exclusive to the New York run are amazing artifacts from American institutions — including an original Audubon illustration, a narwhal’s tusk (or is it a unicorn’s horn?), an ancient Iranian astrolabe, and more — as well as never-before-seen original artwork by Mary GrandPré and early correspondence between J.K. Rowling and her American editor, Arthur Levine.
This special publication is an essential volume for Harry Potter fans, history buffs, and bibliophiles, and a fascinating exploration of the history of the magic at the heart of the Harry Potter stories.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,114 reviews
January 14, 2018
Finally, my copy is on the way to Egypt..
As huge Potterhead, I always admire how close ‘The Harry Potter Series’ is to our Real World.
In Egypt we've this saying; “No Smoke Without Fire”...and this magnificent work of literature has many references to exotic, magical, strange and fantastic subjects, artefacts, creatures and even History..
And it doesn't seems all just a work of fantasy.. it feels like it has Roots in real life..
Elixir of Life, dragon's blood, mandrake roots, painted centaurs from old times..Witch hunting.. even people turning into animals.. why is that a folklore that similar all over the globe? Magic has always been here..
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
And now, This book, with the collaboration of the amazing British Library promising that it will shed a new light in this worldwide phenomenon.. J.K. Rowling’s masterpiece.. The Harry Potter saga…
An academic light full of the imagination..
As the book promises “This is the ultimate gift for Harry Potter fans, curious minds, big imaginations, bibliophiles and readers around the world.”
I don't know much about the real exhibition.. but sure I won't miss it printed -hopefully with the photographs, sketches and illustrations.-
Mohammed Arabey
19th August 2017
As huge Potterhead, I always admire how close ‘The Harry Potter Series’ is to our Real World.
In Egypt we've this saying; “No Smoke Without Fire”...and this magnificent work of literature has many references to exotic, magical, strange and fantastic subjects, artefacts, creatures and even History..
And it doesn't seems all just a work of fantasy.. it feels like it has Roots in real life..
Elixir of Life, dragon's blood, mandrake roots, painted centaurs from old times..Witch hunting.. even people turning into animals.. why is that a folklore that similar all over the globe? Magic has always been here..
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
And now, This book, with the collaboration of the amazing British Library promising that it will shed a new light in this worldwide phenomenon.. J.K. Rowling’s masterpiece.. The Harry Potter saga…
An academic light full of the imagination..
As the book promises “This is the ultimate gift for Harry Potter fans, curious minds, big imaginations, bibliophiles and readers around the world.”
I don't know much about the real exhibition.. but sure I won't miss it printed -hopefully with the photographs, sketches and illustrations.-
Mohammed Arabey
19th August 2017
December 7, 2024
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the publication of the very first Harry Potter book. Who would have thought that a fantasy story for kids would become such a world-wide phenomenon? Certainly not the numerous publishers who turned J.K. Rowling down. *lol*
In honour of the event, the British Library is hosting an exhibition called Harry Potter: A History of Magic and this book basically is a summary of the exhibition for all those who cannot go (or don't want to ever forget).
The exhibition doesn't only feature original manuscripts from Rowling along with her sketches of Hogwarts Castle and grounds or characters like Professor Sprout, but real-life artifacts they have had for a long time. Together with the impressive artwork by Jim Kay, this gives a 360° view on magic as known from fiction as well as history.
Some of the more impressive exhibits are
- the Battersea Cauldron => an actual cauldron (it's entirely possible it was NOT used for brewing potions) that must have been owned by a wealthy person judging by the craftmanship, and which was found at the bottom of the Thames
- the Ripley Scroll => only "a" Ripley scroll, actually, as there are 23 left in the world, but this one is telling you how to create the Philosopher's Stone; it's written in rhyme and illustrated by George Ripley, a self-proclaimed alchemist; the scroll is 6m long and (due to its length) has only seldomly been unrolled so the fantastic illustrations are still vibrant and well preserved
- pages from Culpeper's Medicinal Herbs => a book Culpeper published that contained detailed descriptions of plants along with illustrations and descriptions of what they were a remedy for (apothecaries were NOT pleased because until Culpeper's book, they had been the only ones with that knowledge so they were living the good life)
- Chinese oracle bones => usually the shoulder bones from an ox, marked with questions of the royal family and the answers by astronomers; the remarkable thing is that this is either the only or one of few written records from the Shang dynasty!
But you can also see the actual tombstone of the real Nicolas Flamel (a French writer and, possibly, real-estate dealer)
as well as Ethiopian talismans
and tools that were used for combining astronomy with divination
The chapters are:
1) The Journey (of the books, how HP became such a phenomenon etc)
2) Potions and Alchemy
3) Herbology
4) Charms
5) Astronomy
6) Divination
7) Defense Against the Dark Arts
8) Care of Magical Creatures
9) Past, Present, Future
These are the lovely people (all curators) that brought together the artifacts as well as the writing in the above mentioned chapters:
The halls and rooms you walk through are decorated with Jim Kay's art, potion bottles, broomsticks (yes, some women actually had witches' brooms), mummified animals, ... and are styled like the corridors and classrooms of Hogwarts (complete with the headmaster's study).
This book, therefore, gives a pretty detailed overview of the history of magic in our world, where it overlaps with Rowling's creation, the impacts it had on every-day life (alchemy, basically, is a blend of "magic" and the ancestor of chemistry after all) and why it has fascinated so many people around the world for so long and continues to do so.
As much as I loved the kids' version of the exhibition book, this is by far more gratifying because it is rich with wonderful photographs of the artifacts, script pages, doodles etc on one hand and accounts of "witchcraft" from around the world and throughout history on the other. Thus, it is the perfect blend of what makes Rowling's books so great and an actual lesson in what we humans have been up to since ancient times.
For anyone wanting an even more intimate look (even telling of the discoveries alchemists made that impacted our modern chemistry), the BBC made a documentary which can be watched in full here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPAiE...
In honour of the event, the British Library is hosting an exhibition called Harry Potter: A History of Magic and this book basically is a summary of the exhibition for all those who cannot go (or don't want to ever forget).
The exhibition doesn't only feature original manuscripts from Rowling along with her sketches of Hogwarts Castle and grounds or characters like Professor Sprout, but real-life artifacts they have had for a long time. Together with the impressive artwork by Jim Kay, this gives a 360° view on magic as known from fiction as well as history.
Some of the more impressive exhibits are
- the Battersea Cauldron => an actual cauldron (it's entirely possible it was NOT used for brewing potions) that must have been owned by a wealthy person judging by the craftmanship, and which was found at the bottom of the Thames
- the Ripley Scroll => only "a" Ripley scroll, actually, as there are 23 left in the world, but this one is telling you how to create the Philosopher's Stone; it's written in rhyme and illustrated by George Ripley, a self-proclaimed alchemist; the scroll is 6m long and (due to its length) has only seldomly been unrolled so the fantastic illustrations are still vibrant and well preserved
- pages from Culpeper's Medicinal Herbs => a book Culpeper published that contained detailed descriptions of plants along with illustrations and descriptions of what they were a remedy for (apothecaries were NOT pleased because until Culpeper's book, they had been the only ones with that knowledge so they were living the good life)
- Chinese oracle bones => usually the shoulder bones from an ox, marked with questions of the royal family and the answers by astronomers; the remarkable thing is that this is either the only or one of few written records from the Shang dynasty!
But you can also see the actual tombstone of the real Nicolas Flamel (a French writer and, possibly, real-estate dealer)
as well as Ethiopian talismans
and tools that were used for combining astronomy with divination
The chapters are:
1) The Journey (of the books, how HP became such a phenomenon etc)
2) Potions and Alchemy
3) Herbology
4) Charms
5) Astronomy
6) Divination
7) Defense Against the Dark Arts
8) Care of Magical Creatures
9) Past, Present, Future
These are the lovely people (all curators) that brought together the artifacts as well as the writing in the above mentioned chapters:
The halls and rooms you walk through are decorated with Jim Kay's art, potion bottles, broomsticks (yes, some women actually had witches' brooms), mummified animals, ... and are styled like the corridors and classrooms of Hogwarts (complete with the headmaster's study).
This book, therefore, gives a pretty detailed overview of the history of magic in our world, where it overlaps with Rowling's creation, the impacts it had on every-day life (alchemy, basically, is a blend of "magic" and the ancestor of chemistry after all) and why it has fascinated so many people around the world for so long and continues to do so.
As much as I loved the kids' version of the exhibition book, this is by far more gratifying because it is rich with wonderful photographs of the artifacts, script pages, doodles etc on one hand and accounts of "witchcraft" from around the world and throughout history on the other. Thus, it is the perfect blend of what makes Rowling's books so great and an actual lesson in what we humans have been up to since ancient times.
For anyone wanting an even more intimate look (even telling of the discoveries alchemists made that impacted our modern chemistry), the BBC made a documentary which can be watched in full here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPAiE...
October 25, 2017
Must-read for any Harry Potter obsessed person, like myself.
This book is filled with a bunch of really neat information on the history of magic/witchcraft and provides insights into where JK Rowling drew inspiration for a lot of the things we see in Harry Potter.
I have been waiting for something like this for years. My only criticism: I WANT MORE! I could literally sit down with thousands of pages of JK Rowling's private documents from her early days of planning HP and never get bored.
This book is really unique in that you get to see original manuscripts from the editing phases of the HP books - you get to see just how much some of the information changed from the time it was written to the time it was published. I am astonished over how different some of the books/plots looked in the early drafts. Here are just a few details that changed from the original planning stages:
There are many more cool bits of info in the book, but I could spend all day listing them. Well worth the money I spent on this, and I would encourage you to get a copy for yourself!
This book is filled with a bunch of really neat information on the history of magic/witchcraft and provides insights into where JK Rowling drew inspiration for a lot of the things we see in Harry Potter.
I have been waiting for something like this for years. My only criticism: I WANT MORE! I could literally sit down with thousands of pages of JK Rowling's private documents from her early days of planning HP and never get bored.
This book is really unique in that you get to see original manuscripts from the editing phases of the HP books - you get to see just how much some of the information changed from the time it was written to the time it was published. I am astonished over how different some of the books/plots looked in the early drafts. Here are just a few details that changed from the original planning stages:
There are many more cool bits of info in the book, but I could spend all day listing them. Well worth the money I spent on this, and I would encourage you to get a copy for yourself!
October 27, 2023
Well, this didn't necessarily turn out as planned. Harry Potter: A History of Magic promises to showcase the magical traditions that lie at the heart of Harry Potter's world. I'm not really sure if this catalogue lives up to its claim.
Personally, I would've preferred it if this book had really looked into all of those myths, creatures and people that inspired J.K. Rowling. It would have been such an enrichment if the curators would have tied these traditions to what is written in Potter rather than treating all of them in a very superficial manner without analyzing their significance.
This book was not particularly informative if you we're looking for a deeper analysis of J.K. Rowling's work. Instead it functions more as an introduction and general overview to different beliefs about magic and the hunt of fantastical creatures and objects throughout history. All of which is just loosely if at all tied to Potter. I found this very disappointing because I thought that so much potential was wasted. I get that this catalogue is also targeted at a younger audience, nonetheless, I don't think it would've hurt to spend more time on less artifacts and discuss their use properly.
Despite all of this, a three-star-rating is still appropriate since the catalogue could score in other areas. The main reason why I enjoyed myself whilst reading it were definitely the pictures. All of them were printed in full color and in the highest quality. It was fascinating to see every single detail.
Additionally, many of Rowling's personal illustrations and manuscripts were included in the catalogue. This was most definitely another highlight for me since I am a die-hard Potter-fan. Seeing all of these alternate versions, deleted scenes and unpublished drawings actually made my heart sing. It was a pity that Rowling's handwriting was so hard to read at times (I found it super fascinating btw that she was still plotting by hand and not on her computer when Hallows was in the making) and that some of her manuscripts weren't given the space they deserved, e.g. a DIN A4 page was at times printed as a DIN A6 (or even smaller) in this catalogue which made the writing almost impossible to decipher.
Anyways, I thought it would be fun to share some of the more interesting revelations:
1) Merpeople were intended to appear at the beginning of Chamber of Secrets before Rowling changed her mind. In a draft chapter the Ford Anglia flown by Ron and Harry originally crashed into the lake rather than into the Whomping Willow, leading them to see their first mermaid.
2) By 1991, Rowling had already fully envisioned the appearance of the Dursleys, Rubeus Hagrid, Peeves and many other side characters. I was aware that the idea for Potter came to her on a train to London in 1990 but I didn't know that her vision was already so clear this early on. It was truly fascinating to see her personal illustrations; a favorite of mine was definitely her portrait of Madame Sprout which she drew the night her own mother died.
3) Alice Newton, the daughter of Nigel Newton, the chairman of Bloomsbury Publishing, made the publication of Philosopher's Stone possible. She was given an early manuscript that led up as far as Diagon Alley and then pressured her father to bring home the whole thing.
4) J.K. Rowling had many different ideas as to how the sorting at Hogwarts would work. She envisioned sorting by the statues of the four founders, or the ghost court, or prefects with the respective heads of houses, or by letting the first year students solve a riddle. Eventually she came to the realization: 'Forget that, just put the hat on.' ;)
5) In an early draft, she wrote the character of Fudge as a Muggle Minister who was visited by Hagrid (on behalf of Dumbeldore) to warn him about Voldemort. She also drafted Vernon Dursley as a high ranking Muggle politician who wanted to take Fudge's place. They had some serious bonding moments over being the only two muggles in the know about wizards. It was quite hilarious!
6) And lastly, she originally intended the names of Dumbledore's Army and The Order of the Phoenix to be swapped. Oh well, that would've been weird.
Overall, it was fun to read Harry Potter: A History of Magic and even though it didn't grant me the insight and knowledge that I craved, I still wouldn't wanna miss this beautifully crafted coffee table book in my collection.
Personally, I would've preferred it if this book had really looked into all of those myths, creatures and people that inspired J.K. Rowling. It would have been such an enrichment if the curators would have tied these traditions to what is written in Potter rather than treating all of them in a very superficial manner without analyzing their significance.
This book was not particularly informative if you we're looking for a deeper analysis of J.K. Rowling's work. Instead it functions more as an introduction and general overview to different beliefs about magic and the hunt of fantastical creatures and objects throughout history. All of which is just loosely if at all tied to Potter. I found this very disappointing because I thought that so much potential was wasted. I get that this catalogue is also targeted at a younger audience, nonetheless, I don't think it would've hurt to spend more time on less artifacts and discuss their use properly.
Despite all of this, a three-star-rating is still appropriate since the catalogue could score in other areas. The main reason why I enjoyed myself whilst reading it were definitely the pictures. All of them were printed in full color and in the highest quality. It was fascinating to see every single detail.
Additionally, many of Rowling's personal illustrations and manuscripts were included in the catalogue. This was most definitely another highlight for me since I am a die-hard Potter-fan. Seeing all of these alternate versions, deleted scenes and unpublished drawings actually made my heart sing. It was a pity that Rowling's handwriting was so hard to read at times (I found it super fascinating btw that she was still plotting by hand and not on her computer when Hallows was in the making) and that some of her manuscripts weren't given the space they deserved, e.g. a DIN A4 page was at times printed as a DIN A6 (or even smaller) in this catalogue which made the writing almost impossible to decipher.
Anyways, I thought it would be fun to share some of the more interesting revelations:
1) Merpeople were intended to appear at the beginning of Chamber of Secrets before Rowling changed her mind. In a draft chapter the Ford Anglia flown by Ron and Harry originally crashed into the lake rather than into the Whomping Willow, leading them to see their first mermaid.
2) By 1991, Rowling had already fully envisioned the appearance of the Dursleys, Rubeus Hagrid, Peeves and many other side characters. I was aware that the idea for Potter came to her on a train to London in 1990 but I didn't know that her vision was already so clear this early on. It was truly fascinating to see her personal illustrations; a favorite of mine was definitely her portrait of Madame Sprout which she drew the night her own mother died.
3) Alice Newton, the daughter of Nigel Newton, the chairman of Bloomsbury Publishing, made the publication of Philosopher's Stone possible. She was given an early manuscript that led up as far as Diagon Alley and then pressured her father to bring home the whole thing.
4) J.K. Rowling had many different ideas as to how the sorting at Hogwarts would work. She envisioned sorting by the statues of the four founders, or the ghost court, or prefects with the respective heads of houses, or by letting the first year students solve a riddle. Eventually she came to the realization: 'Forget that, just put the hat on.' ;)
5) In an early draft, she wrote the character of Fudge as a Muggle Minister who was visited by Hagrid (on behalf of Dumbeldore) to warn him about Voldemort. She also drafted Vernon Dursley as a high ranking Muggle politician who wanted to take Fudge's place. They had some serious bonding moments over being the only two muggles in the know about wizards. It was quite hilarious!
6) And lastly, she originally intended the names of Dumbledore's Army and The Order of the Phoenix to be swapped. Oh well, that would've been weird.
Overall, it was fun to read Harry Potter: A History of Magic and even though it didn't grant me the insight and knowledge that I craved, I still wouldn't wanna miss this beautifully crafted coffee table book in my collection.
books-i-own-but-haven-t-read-yet
September 13, 2017Have you guys seen this? B/c I had not.
But all it took was reading the description for me preorder the shit out of it. #bookdespositoryFTW
But all it took was reading the description for me preorder the shit out of it. #bookdespositoryFTW
Harry Potter: A History of Magic is the official book of the exhibition, a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration between Bloomsbury, J.K. Rowling and the brilliant curators of the British Library. It promises to take readers on a fascinating journey through the subjects studied at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry – from Alchemy and Potions classes through to Herbology and Care of Magical Creatures.
July 16, 2018
We had to wait several months to get this from the library and now aim to own it. A large and gorgeous hardback, 250 pages, full glossy color "coffee table" and collectible feast of Potter world, focused obviously on magic in the series, curated and wonderfully produced by no less than the British Library in commemoration of the twentieth anniversary of the publication of the first Harry Potter volume, in conjunction with an exhibition there I will never see, boo hoo.
Read Trish and Mohammed Arabey's reviews so you can see some of it, but there are several treats, including many drawings by Rowling, who turns out to be a very good artist, and helps to explain why she was enthusiastic about illustrated editions. Connects Rowling's work and research with a literary history of magic. A must for Potter fans! Everyone in this house has been poring over it for weeks now.
Read Trish and Mohammed Arabey's reviews so you can see some of it, but there are several treats, including many drawings by Rowling, who turns out to be a very good artist, and helps to explain why she was enthusiastic about illustrated editions. Connects Rowling's work and research with a literary history of magic. A must for Potter fans! Everyone in this house has been poring over it for weeks now.
February 25, 2018
This is a fascinating book which yes does draw on the Harry Potter name but is far far more than that.
You see the British Library has a long history of publishing supporting books for their larger exhibitions. They are far more than simply tour guides, representing further reading and expanded articles in the exhibit. In other words you can enjoy the book without having set foot inside the building. This has very much been the case in the books on science fiction and comics and graphic novels.
However this book is the next step up - yes the exhibit was incredible in its own right but having read the book you could almost be excused to think that the exhibit is to support the book.
The book itself charts magic and mythical creatures (along with a lot more) through the ages and see how the various wonders found their way in to our culture and I guess out subconscious long before the debut of Harry Potter. If you like a lot of the ideas, names and even creatures that inhabit the pages of the Harry Potter books are mentioned or hinted at here.
Charting the beginning of things can be a very tricky thing and this book shows that magic has been with us for as long as we have been able to communicate. Like I say this book is far more than a celebration of Harry Potter more its a stepping stone in to our history and the wonders that are recorded in it.
The British Library is a true wonder in both what it represents and what it creates. I wonder what next will come from it.
You see the British Library has a long history of publishing supporting books for their larger exhibitions. They are far more than simply tour guides, representing further reading and expanded articles in the exhibit. In other words you can enjoy the book without having set foot inside the building. This has very much been the case in the books on science fiction and comics and graphic novels.
However this book is the next step up - yes the exhibit was incredible in its own right but having read the book you could almost be excused to think that the exhibit is to support the book.
The book itself charts magic and mythical creatures (along with a lot more) through the ages and see how the various wonders found their way in to our culture and I guess out subconscious long before the debut of Harry Potter. If you like a lot of the ideas, names and even creatures that inhabit the pages of the Harry Potter books are mentioned or hinted at here.
Charting the beginning of things can be a very tricky thing and this book shows that magic has been with us for as long as we have been able to communicate. Like I say this book is far more than a celebration of Harry Potter more its a stepping stone in to our history and the wonders that are recorded in it.
The British Library is a true wonder in both what it represents and what it creates. I wonder what next will come from it.
November 8, 2017
If you are a Potter fan, then you’ll have heard of this amazing exhibition that the British Library has put together to celebrate the 20 years since the first publication of book 1. It is unreal to think that before then, we didn’t have this fascinating world that has charmed everyone. This is also the first time the BL have exhibited an author who is still very much alive :0)
Rowling did inspire herself from myths and many texts, which can be seen here, as well as a wealth of documents and items from the vaults of the Library. This book mirrors this, each section representing one of Harry’s classes at Hogwarts. There also many of Jim Kay’s illustrations, and Olivia Gill who created the artwork for the Fantastic Beasts volume. These are utterly beautiful!
A great keepsake :0)
March 9, 2018
This is a highly recommend book for any harry potter fan
As i don't see myself going to the exhibition anytime soon this book was a great way to see and learn more about the harry potter world.
I just had to buy this book and have it for my collection and i just loved reading through the book to see all the different drawings, pictures etc because this series has been with me for over 10 years now and i will never get enough of it.
If you love harry potter i would highly recommend you check this book out if you cant go to the exhibition like myself who lives in a different country.
As i don't see myself going to the exhibition anytime soon this book was a great way to see and learn more about the harry potter world.
I just had to buy this book and have it for my collection and i just loved reading through the book to see all the different drawings, pictures etc because this series has been with me for over 10 years now and i will never get enough of it.
If you love harry potter i would highly recommend you check this book out if you cant go to the exhibition like myself who lives in a different country.
August 7, 2018
Trigger warnings: witch burnings?? Look, it's a nonfiction book full of medieval artworks that relate to the Hogwarts subjects. There's not really much that's triggering.
This book is absolutely STUNNING and now I'm sadder than ever that I didn't get to go to the exhibition. It not only provides an excellent background in a literal history of magic, with essays from relevant experts for each chapter (i.e. an astronaut for Astronomy, a priest for Defence Against the Dark Arts) tying that particular subject into the world that Rowling created, but it also provides - quite literally - a history of Rowling's world and how it came to be.
So not only does it include medieval manuscripts and oracle bones from 5th century China and a mandrake root that looks shockingly like a person, but it also includes Rowling's planning for Order of the Phoenix, drafts of deleted scenes from Chamber of Secrets, and her drawings dating back to 1990 of how she pictured various characters. (Fun fact: Dean was originally called Gary. Thank God she changed that one...)
And throughout the entire thing, we have Jim Kay's beautiful and mindblowing illustrations. I loved every single second of reading this book. Every. Single. Second. I sped through it in an afternoon, and I expect I'll revisit it at a slower pace in the future to savour things. But honestly? It's incredible.
This book is absolutely STUNNING and now I'm sadder than ever that I didn't get to go to the exhibition. It not only provides an excellent background in a literal history of magic, with essays from relevant experts for each chapter (i.e. an astronaut for Astronomy, a priest for Defence Against the Dark Arts) tying that particular subject into the world that Rowling created, but it also provides - quite literally - a history of Rowling's world and how it came to be.
So not only does it include medieval manuscripts and oracle bones from 5th century China and a mandrake root that looks shockingly like a person, but it also includes Rowling's planning for Order of the Phoenix, drafts of deleted scenes from Chamber of Secrets, and her drawings dating back to 1990 of how she pictured various characters. (Fun fact: Dean was originally called Gary. Thank God she changed that one...)
And throughout the entire thing, we have Jim Kay's beautiful and mindblowing illustrations. I loved every single second of reading this book. Every. Single. Second. I sped through it in an afternoon, and I expect I'll revisit it at a slower pace in the future to savour things. But honestly? It's incredible.
August 4, 2018
I'm kind of glad I didn't buy this and borrowed it from the library *ducks* I had higher expectations of the promised tie into our history/mythology from Harry Potter. Most of it was superficial.
December 12, 2018
Was für ein großartiges Buch! Ich bin ja nicht nur ein riesiger Fan von Harry Potter, sondern interessiere mich auch für alte Mythen gerade in Zusammenhang mit Magie und dafür ist dieser großformierte Bildband wirklich ein Traum!
Er entstand durch die Ausstellung im Jahr 2017 im British Library, der Nationalbibliothek des Vereinten Königreichs und eine der größten wissenschaftlichen Bibliotheken der Welt. Es vereinigt wissenswertes über alle Arten der Zauberei von der Antike bis zur Gegenwart im Kontext zu Harry Potters Geschichte.
Schon in der Einleitung des Kurators Julian Harrison erkennt man die vielen Verbindungen zu alten Sagen und wie sie bei Rowlings Büchern ihren Platz gefunden haben.
Aufgeteilt ist das Buch in 9 Kapitel, die nach den Schulfächern der Hogwarts Schule für Zauberei benannt sind. Jedes davon wird mit ein paar Worten eingeleitet von verschiedenen Fachleuten wie unter anderem einem Astronauten, einem Professor für Sozialgeschichte, einer Kolumnistin oder auch einem Priester.
Die Schrift ist etwas klein geraten und ich musste mich teilweise doch etwas anstrengen beim lesen, dafür sind wirklich zahlreiche Fotos und Bilder abgedruckt, die den Text wunderschön veranschaulichen - darunter auch viele bisher unveröffentlichte Entwürfe und Textstellen von Joanne K. Rowling.
Besonders schön fand ich auch die Farbbilder der Hogwarts Lehrer von Jim Kay, die sind perfekt getroffen.
In Kapitel 1, Die Reise, wird erzählt, wie Joanne K. Rowling zur ihrer Idee gefunden hat und wie Harry Potter immer bekannter und berühmter wurde. Dazu auch einige Hintergründe wie z. B. die Namen und ihre Bedeutungen, verschiedene wichtige Gegenstände und Fabelwesen aus der Geschichte. Ein ganz toller Einblick, der jedes Fanherz höher schlagen lässt!
In Kapitel 2, Zaubertränke und Alchemie, reichen die Ursprünge weit in die Vergangenheit zurück und zeigen die Entwicklungen in der Alchemie zur Chemie bis zur Medizin. Das fand ich wirklich interessant, denn das Thema an sich hat mich schon immer interessiert, gerade die Alchemie, und mit dem "Stein der Weisen" hat man hier eine sehr enge Verbindung zum ersten Harry Potter Band.
Überraschend fand ich, dass die Wirkung eines Bezoar zum Beispiel, den wohl jeder als Rons Lebensretter kennt, schon seit Jahrhunderten bekannt ist! Allerdings war mir neu, aus was dieser "Stein" besteht ...
"Ein Bezoar ist ein Knäuel aus unverdauter Materie, das sich im Magen
von bestimmten Tieren bilden kann.
Diese werden als Gegengift angesehen." S. 52
Auch den Hexenkesseln wird ein Abschnitt gewidmet, denn diese scheinen seit dem 5. Jahrhundert ein unbekanntes, dennoch unabdingbares Werkzeug von Hexen zu sein. Aber erst durch das Traktat von Ulrich Molitor im Jahr 1489 gehört der Kessel in der Bildsymbolik zu den Hexen dazu.
In Kapitel 3, der Kräuterkunde, werden natürlich vielerlei Arten von Pflanzen und ihre Verwendung in der Heilkunde vorgestellt. Auch ein Thema das mich fasziniert, denn es gibt so viele Heilpflanzen - und auch wenn viele die Einflüsse abstreiten - ich vertraue da sehr oft der Natur und ob da jetzt der Glaube oder die Wirkung hilft, bei kleineren Wehwechen ist es definitiv besser als die Chemiebomben.
Mit dabei ist hier auch die sagenumwobene Alraune, die auch bei Harry Potter im zweiten Band eine große Rolle spielt, und deren betäubende Wirkung früher für Amputationen gebräuchlich war.
In Kapitel 4 wird die Zauberkunst beleuchtet, in allen möglichen Varationen von früher bis heute und wie die Autorin sehr geschickt und vor allem in logischen Zusammenhängen diese in die magische Welt eingebracht hat.
Hier wird übrigens erwähnt, dass der Zauberspruch "Abrakadabra" schon seit dem 3. Jahrhundert bekannt war und als Heilspruch vor allem gegen Malaria eingesetzt wurde.
Kapitel 5, Astronomie, die Sternenkunde und alles was damit zusammenhängt. Ein wirklich toller Einblick - oder sollte man lieber sagen - Rückblick auf eine jahrhunderte alte Tradition der Sternenbeobachtung und ihrer Faszination. Abgebildet ist unter anderem diese älteste Sternenkarte, die in einer Höhle in der Wüste Zentral Chinas gefunden wurde und auf ca. 700 n. Chr. datiert wurde.
In Kapitel 6 geht es passend mit Wahrsagen weiter, denn natürlich spielt hier auch die Astrologie eine Rolle. Aber es werden auch verschiedenste andere Arten aufgezeigt, wie Handlesen, Orakelknochen, Kartenlegen, Kristallkugeln usw.
Interessant ist hier dass sich ja in allen Kulturen das Interesse, in die Zukunft zu sehen, entwickelt hat und sich in unterschiedlichen Methoden Ausdruck verlieh. Die frühesten Nachweise stammen scheinbar aus Mesopotamien schon vor 4000 Jahren.
Kapitel 7, Die Verteidigung gegen die dunklen Künste, hier stehen die Schlangen sehr im Vordergrund, die sehr jeher mit Mystik verbunden wurden. Sie gilt durch ihre "Erneuerung" als magisches Geschöpf mit hoher Symbolkraft. Aber es werden auch Basilisken beschrieben, Wasserdämonen, Sphinxe und viele mehr und in diesem Zusammenhang auch der Glaube an Schutzamulette und Talismane verschiedenster Art, deren Aberglaube noch bis unsere heutige Zeit hineinreicht. Da braucht man nur an Hufeisen denken ;)
Kapitel 8, Pflege magischer Geschöpfe, beinhaltet eine Vielzahl an Wesen und Kreaturen, ihre "Herkunft" und welche Kräfte ihnen innewohnen. Das schließt aber nicht nur die mythischen Wesen wie Riesen, Bergtrolle, Poltergeister und Drachen mit ein, sondern auch die schon immer mit einem magischen Flair umwobenen Tiere wie Katzen, Eulen und Kröten. Genau jene Tiere, welche die Hogwarts Schüler in die Schule mitnehmen dürfen.
Den Abschluss in Kapitel 9 bildet der Drehbuchautor Steve Kloves, der alle sieben Filmbücher geschrieben hat und er beschreibt seinen ersten Kontakt mit Harry Potter auf eine höchst amüsante Weise - vor allem seine Faszination zu der Geschichte, durch die wir zum Glück auch die Leinwandversion zu sehen bekommen haben.
Ihr seht, ein Rundumschlag durch die Vergangenheit zur Entstehung von Harry Potter und in allen möglichen Bezügen der Magie, die in den Büchern ihre Bestimmung gefunden hat. Tolle Einblicke bei jedem Kapitel, interessante Daten zur Entwicklung und was wir davon in Harrys Geschichten wiederfinden. Die - meist kurzen - Textstellen sind klar und einfach verständlich gehalten und zeigen, wie sehr der Glaube an das Mystische seit jeher in den Menschen verwurzelt ist.
© Aleshanee
Weltenwanderer
Er entstand durch die Ausstellung im Jahr 2017 im British Library, der Nationalbibliothek des Vereinten Königreichs und eine der größten wissenschaftlichen Bibliotheken der Welt. Es vereinigt wissenswertes über alle Arten der Zauberei von der Antike bis zur Gegenwart im Kontext zu Harry Potters Geschichte.
Schon in der Einleitung des Kurators Julian Harrison erkennt man die vielen Verbindungen zu alten Sagen und wie sie bei Rowlings Büchern ihren Platz gefunden haben.
Aufgeteilt ist das Buch in 9 Kapitel, die nach den Schulfächern der Hogwarts Schule für Zauberei benannt sind. Jedes davon wird mit ein paar Worten eingeleitet von verschiedenen Fachleuten wie unter anderem einem Astronauten, einem Professor für Sozialgeschichte, einer Kolumnistin oder auch einem Priester.
Die Schrift ist etwas klein geraten und ich musste mich teilweise doch etwas anstrengen beim lesen, dafür sind wirklich zahlreiche Fotos und Bilder abgedruckt, die den Text wunderschön veranschaulichen - darunter auch viele bisher unveröffentlichte Entwürfe und Textstellen von Joanne K. Rowling.
Besonders schön fand ich auch die Farbbilder der Hogwarts Lehrer von Jim Kay, die sind perfekt getroffen.
In Kapitel 1, Die Reise, wird erzählt, wie Joanne K. Rowling zur ihrer Idee gefunden hat und wie Harry Potter immer bekannter und berühmter wurde. Dazu auch einige Hintergründe wie z. B. die Namen und ihre Bedeutungen, verschiedene wichtige Gegenstände und Fabelwesen aus der Geschichte. Ein ganz toller Einblick, der jedes Fanherz höher schlagen lässt!
In Kapitel 2, Zaubertränke und Alchemie, reichen die Ursprünge weit in die Vergangenheit zurück und zeigen die Entwicklungen in der Alchemie zur Chemie bis zur Medizin. Das fand ich wirklich interessant, denn das Thema an sich hat mich schon immer interessiert, gerade die Alchemie, und mit dem "Stein der Weisen" hat man hier eine sehr enge Verbindung zum ersten Harry Potter Band.
Überraschend fand ich, dass die Wirkung eines Bezoar zum Beispiel, den wohl jeder als Rons Lebensretter kennt, schon seit Jahrhunderten bekannt ist! Allerdings war mir neu, aus was dieser "Stein" besteht ...
"Ein Bezoar ist ein Knäuel aus unverdauter Materie, das sich im Magen
von bestimmten Tieren bilden kann.
Diese werden als Gegengift angesehen." S. 52
Auch den Hexenkesseln wird ein Abschnitt gewidmet, denn diese scheinen seit dem 5. Jahrhundert ein unbekanntes, dennoch unabdingbares Werkzeug von Hexen zu sein. Aber erst durch das Traktat von Ulrich Molitor im Jahr 1489 gehört der Kessel in der Bildsymbolik zu den Hexen dazu.
In Kapitel 3, der Kräuterkunde, werden natürlich vielerlei Arten von Pflanzen und ihre Verwendung in der Heilkunde vorgestellt. Auch ein Thema das mich fasziniert, denn es gibt so viele Heilpflanzen - und auch wenn viele die Einflüsse abstreiten - ich vertraue da sehr oft der Natur und ob da jetzt der Glaube oder die Wirkung hilft, bei kleineren Wehwechen ist es definitiv besser als die Chemiebomben.
Mit dabei ist hier auch die sagenumwobene Alraune, die auch bei Harry Potter im zweiten Band eine große Rolle spielt, und deren betäubende Wirkung früher für Amputationen gebräuchlich war.
In Kapitel 4 wird die Zauberkunst beleuchtet, in allen möglichen Varationen von früher bis heute und wie die Autorin sehr geschickt und vor allem in logischen Zusammenhängen diese in die magische Welt eingebracht hat.
Hier wird übrigens erwähnt, dass der Zauberspruch "Abrakadabra" schon seit dem 3. Jahrhundert bekannt war und als Heilspruch vor allem gegen Malaria eingesetzt wurde.
Kapitel 5, Astronomie, die Sternenkunde und alles was damit zusammenhängt. Ein wirklich toller Einblick - oder sollte man lieber sagen - Rückblick auf eine jahrhunderte alte Tradition der Sternenbeobachtung und ihrer Faszination. Abgebildet ist unter anderem diese älteste Sternenkarte, die in einer Höhle in der Wüste Zentral Chinas gefunden wurde und auf ca. 700 n. Chr. datiert wurde.
In Kapitel 6 geht es passend mit Wahrsagen weiter, denn natürlich spielt hier auch die Astrologie eine Rolle. Aber es werden auch verschiedenste andere Arten aufgezeigt, wie Handlesen, Orakelknochen, Kartenlegen, Kristallkugeln usw.
Interessant ist hier dass sich ja in allen Kulturen das Interesse, in die Zukunft zu sehen, entwickelt hat und sich in unterschiedlichen Methoden Ausdruck verlieh. Die frühesten Nachweise stammen scheinbar aus Mesopotamien schon vor 4000 Jahren.
Kapitel 7, Die Verteidigung gegen die dunklen Künste, hier stehen die Schlangen sehr im Vordergrund, die sehr jeher mit Mystik verbunden wurden. Sie gilt durch ihre "Erneuerung" als magisches Geschöpf mit hoher Symbolkraft. Aber es werden auch Basilisken beschrieben, Wasserdämonen, Sphinxe und viele mehr und in diesem Zusammenhang auch der Glaube an Schutzamulette und Talismane verschiedenster Art, deren Aberglaube noch bis unsere heutige Zeit hineinreicht. Da braucht man nur an Hufeisen denken ;)
Kapitel 8, Pflege magischer Geschöpfe, beinhaltet eine Vielzahl an Wesen und Kreaturen, ihre "Herkunft" und welche Kräfte ihnen innewohnen. Das schließt aber nicht nur die mythischen Wesen wie Riesen, Bergtrolle, Poltergeister und Drachen mit ein, sondern auch die schon immer mit einem magischen Flair umwobenen Tiere wie Katzen, Eulen und Kröten. Genau jene Tiere, welche die Hogwarts Schüler in die Schule mitnehmen dürfen.
Den Abschluss in Kapitel 9 bildet der Drehbuchautor Steve Kloves, der alle sieben Filmbücher geschrieben hat und er beschreibt seinen ersten Kontakt mit Harry Potter auf eine höchst amüsante Weise - vor allem seine Faszination zu der Geschichte, durch die wir zum Glück auch die Leinwandversion zu sehen bekommen haben.
Ihr seht, ein Rundumschlag durch die Vergangenheit zur Entstehung von Harry Potter und in allen möglichen Bezügen der Magie, die in den Büchern ihre Bestimmung gefunden hat. Tolle Einblicke bei jedem Kapitel, interessante Daten zur Entwicklung und was wir davon in Harrys Geschichten wiederfinden. Die - meist kurzen - Textstellen sind klar und einfach verständlich gehalten und zeigen, wie sehr der Glaube an das Mystische seit jeher in den Menschen verwurzelt ist.
© Aleshanee
Weltenwanderer
March 31, 2021
This was such a fun read (listen)! It was so well done and so believable that I had to keep reminding myself that it was fiction1! This is a must read/listen for any Harry Potter world fan.
February 8, 2019
Harry Potter: History of Magic is informative. Not only focusing to the world of Harry Potter, it's also about nonfictional witchcraft and magic. We get all the deets where J.K. Rowling gets her inspiration to create Harry Potter, insights from illustrators Jim Kay & Olivia Gill, voice actors Jim Dale and Stephen Fry sharing their experience narrating Harry Potter books etc.
I may not see the illustrations but this audiobook is vivid and magical. I'm willing to listen to anything narrated by Natalie Dormer. She's fantastic! 😍 The chapters are the subjects in Hogwarts class plus The Journey and Past, Present, Future. My favorite chapters are probably Herbology and Care of Magical Creatures. Potterheads will surely enjoy this book in any format.
I may not see the illustrations but this audiobook is vivid and magical. I'm willing to listen to anything narrated by Natalie Dormer. She's fantastic! 😍 The chapters are the subjects in Hogwarts class plus The Journey and Past, Present, Future. My favorite chapters are probably Herbology and Care of Magical Creatures. Potterheads will surely enjoy this book in any format.
May 7, 2018
I absolutely loved this non-fiction book which combines our world history of magic and the history told in HP. A lot of what Rowling used for inspiration comes from our world, and this book is a great example of so many of the ideas. I found myself pulled through this easily and read it in a day, but it's a great coffee table book too and one I think that many would find really interesting. 4.5*s
November 13, 2019
A great companion book and wonderful insight into the magic world of J.K. Rowling, full of useful information on the science that lies beneath the wizarding world with detailed illustrations to match.
A must read for Potterheads and Muggles alike.
A must read for Potterheads and Muggles alike.
December 8, 2017
i couldn’t help myself. it was sitting on my shelf looking so sad and desperately wanting me to read it.
December 29, 2018
Such a beautiful book with such lovely information. This makes me less sad I missed the exhibition and reminds me of the adorable hour long video that showcases the exhibition. This book might be better than the exhibition because I can enjoy the artifacts in my pajamas!
December 1, 2017
I was fortunate enough to visit the Harry Potter exhibition at British Library in its opening week in October. It was such a wonderful experience; I stood in awe and looked at Rowling's manuscripts, drawings and schedules; I gazed longingly at Jim Kay's detailed drawings and paintings; and I gasped when I saw the mutated body of a supposed merman (?) and a rumored witch's cauldron from the 16th century.
I cannot recommend the exhibition highly enough. If you're in the area and if you love Harry Potter – or even just nurse an interest in the traditions of fantasy writing – you should go. It is an absolute treasure.
The exhibition not only manages to tell the story of Rowling's writing process and research; it also manages to underline the myths, the folk lore and the actual history that is the very foundation of fantasy writing as we know it today. It not only places the Harry Potter series in a tradition of mermaids and wizards, but also tell the stories of why and how our perception of magic was built.
It is absolutely wonderful.
This book is actually the exhibition catalogue; it presents the pieces in the exhibition in pictures and text – and most of all, I bought and read for a chance to peruse Rowling's own manuscripts a bit more carefully. After all, there is a lot to be discovered here ...
I cannot recommend the exhibition highly enough. If you're in the area and if you love Harry Potter – or even just nurse an interest in the traditions of fantasy writing – you should go. It is an absolute treasure.
The exhibition not only manages to tell the story of Rowling's writing process and research; it also manages to underline the myths, the folk lore and the actual history that is the very foundation of fantasy writing as we know it today. It not only places the Harry Potter series in a tradition of mermaids and wizards, but also tell the stories of why and how our perception of magic was built.
It is absolutely wonderful.
This book is actually the exhibition catalogue; it presents the pieces in the exhibition in pictures and text – and most of all, I bought and read for a chance to peruse Rowling's own manuscripts a bit more carefully. After all, there is a lot to be discovered here ...
July 5, 2020
This book among the other animated releases of the Harry Potter series are fantastic in detail and this particular book gives great insights into the eyes of J.K at the time of writing.
May 8, 2020
Evet, bir Potterhead olarak bunu da okumasam olmazdı tabii ki :))
Okuyacak başka bir şey kaldı mı bilmiyorum..
Biraz araştırayım bakayım :))
Okuyacak başka bir şey kaldı mı bilmiyorum..
Biraz araştırayım bakayım :))
November 15, 2017
Required reading for every Harry Potter fan! I originally picked this up after skimming through it at the bookstore and seeing images of drafts and annotations of the original books, so I had to buy it. This book is the written equivalent of walking through the British Library's actual museum Harry Potter: A History of Magic. It focuses heavily on the historical precedents for everything found in the series by filtering it through the various school subjects Harry, Ron, and Hermione take. I learned so much reading this book and am so happy I decided to pay the expensive price tag.
Below I've summarized each section briefly.
The Journey: This section features amazing insights into the publication and editing processes. It focuses mainly on the Philosopher's Stone.
Potions and Alchemy: interesting look at the history of alchemy and how Rowling included the various historical pieces in the series. It also looks at the history of witchcraft and the various symbols associated with it.
The best part of the section is the history of bezoar stones
Herbology: This section is not as interesting as the previous chapters since the information given does not relate as directly to the books, although I did really enjoy the information about mandrakes.
Charms: This section offers an interesting look at the various charms used throughout the series and an in depth look at the logical use of charms in the wizarding world.
The best part is the explanation of the origin of abracadabra.
Astronomy: This chapter doesn't relate specifically to Harry Potter other than the connection of names used in the series to stars/constellations, but does give interesting information about the history of stargazing.
The best part of this chapter was seeing Rowling's notes about teachers’ names and subjects.
Divination: This chapter was my least favourite of all, however the origin of the mirror of erised made up for it.
Defense Against the Dark Arts: This section offers an interesting look at the historical precedent of warding off evil spirits and witches.
Care of Magical Creatures: If you bought this book in hopes of gaining insight into Rowling writing process and deleted scene, then this is the chapter you’ll find most satisfying.
Past, Present, Future: This section felt rushed and incomplete, but did include pictures of Rowling's annotated Philosopher's Stone.
Below I've summarized each section briefly.
The Journey: This section features amazing insights into the publication and editing processes. It focuses mainly on the Philosopher's Stone.
Potions and Alchemy: interesting look at the history of alchemy and how Rowling included the various historical pieces in the series. It also looks at the history of witchcraft and the various symbols associated with it.
The best part of the section is the history of bezoar stones
Herbology: This section is not as interesting as the previous chapters since the information given does not relate as directly to the books, although I did really enjoy the information about mandrakes.
Charms: This section offers an interesting look at the various charms used throughout the series and an in depth look at the logical use of charms in the wizarding world.
The best part is the explanation of the origin of abracadabra.
Astronomy: This chapter doesn't relate specifically to Harry Potter other than the connection of names used in the series to stars/constellations, but does give interesting information about the history of stargazing.
The best part of this chapter was seeing Rowling's notes about teachers’ names and subjects.
Divination: This chapter was my least favourite of all, however the origin of the mirror of erised made up for it.
Defense Against the Dark Arts: This section offers an interesting look at the historical precedent of warding off evil spirits and witches.
Care of Magical Creatures: If you bought this book in hopes of gaining insight into Rowling writing process and deleted scene, then this is the chapter you’ll find most satisfying.
Past, Present, Future: This section felt rushed and incomplete, but did include pictures of Rowling's annotated Philosopher's Stone.
September 22, 2024
"In every culture, in every age, in every place and, probably, in every heart, there is magic."
Book: ★★★★ (4.25 stars)
Audiobook: ★★★★ (4 stars)
This book proved to be quite an informative read as it offered the different ideas J.K. Rowling had when it came to the world of Harry Potter along with different beliefs concerning magic from the real world. And the illustrations were, for the most part, simply gorgeous.
The audiobook was, for the most part, good. Natalie Dormer, the narrator, did a splendid job. It also included exclusive interviews with Jim Dale , Jim Kay *, Stephen Fry *, and featured other guests. I was not able to finish it, though, because my loan expired, so I just continued on with the physical copy that I borrowed from the library.
*not spoilers; simply emoji reactions
Book: ★★★★ (4.25 stars)
Audiobook: ★★★★ (4 stars)
This book proved to be quite an informative read as it offered the different ideas J.K. Rowling had when it came to the world of Harry Potter along with different beliefs concerning magic from the real world. And the illustrations were, for the most part, simply gorgeous.
The audiobook was, for the most part, good. Natalie Dormer, the narrator, did a splendid job. It also included exclusive interviews with Jim Dale , Jim Kay *, Stephen Fry *, and featured other guests. I was not able to finish it, though, because my loan expired, so I just continued on with the physical copy that I borrowed from the library.
*not spoilers; simply emoji reactions
August 18, 2019
The only way I can describe this book is to say it was like walking around a Harry Potter museum. Or maybe NatGeo meets HP.
I have never dragged a book out so long in my life. From the moment it came out, I reserved a chapter per week, sometimes re-listening to the same chapter several times. I'll cherish this book over, and over, and over again. The audio is the way to go!
I have never dragged a book out so long in my life. From the moment it came out, I reserved a chapter per week, sometimes re-listening to the same chapter several times. I'll cherish this book over, and over, and over again. The audio is the way to go!
December 5, 2019
A gorgeous book that will take you through the Harry Potter: A History of Magic Exhibition.
I have had this book in my collection since 2017 (Christmas), but didn't want to read it just yet as I was about to visit the Harry Potter: A History of Magic Exhibition in London on my birthday, or well, I hoped so, my now hubby was keeping very tight lipped about it. Just saying we were going to London for my birthday, which was already a big enough present! And then we went to the exhibition, on my birthday! It was a magical, wonderful, gorgeous exhibition and I didn't want to leave at all. I just wanted to soak it up and stay. But yeah, even now, almost 2 years after, I still remember many of the things at the exhibition. But I wanted to read this book. Wanted to go back to that magical day. Plus, I thought it was high time to read this book. :P
This book comprises of 9 chapters featuring everything that is Harry Potter and of course the history on magic, folklore, magical beasts. From cauldrons to broomsticks to scrolls to potions and plants to well everything, there is a ton that is explored. Each chapter is led by an essay written by a person of interest (though I already forgot what kind of things they were doing, or well 7 of the 9 I forgot, there are two that I remember an astronaut and the guy who made the movies). I have to say I wasn't that interested in these stories, I came here for Harry Potter, for magic, for illustrations and images of the exhibition. Still I read them, and sure some held some interesting and fun parts. I do think that maybe if the font had been bigger I would have enjoyed it much more. Now it was later on the evening and my eyes weren't too happy with the tininess.
But the rest is just wonderful. There is so much to discover, to read, to find out about magic and Harry Potter. I just loved seeing the drafts, see the early illustrations and ideas that Rowling had (and it was even better in real life). It was so interesting to read. I loved that there were added quotes, I remember those were also in the exhibition, they really made everything more fun and magical.
There are also notes from the curators of the exhibition.
Plus, you make my day with the Jim Kay illustrations of the series. He really captures everyone perfectly!
This is an exceptional book that is a must have for any Harry Potter and magic fan.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
I have had this book in my collection since 2017 (Christmas), but didn't want to read it just yet as I was about to visit the Harry Potter: A History of Magic Exhibition in London on my birthday, or well, I hoped so, my now hubby was keeping very tight lipped about it. Just saying we were going to London for my birthday, which was already a big enough present! And then we went to the exhibition, on my birthday! It was a magical, wonderful, gorgeous exhibition and I didn't want to leave at all. I just wanted to soak it up and stay. But yeah, even now, almost 2 years after, I still remember many of the things at the exhibition. But I wanted to read this book. Wanted to go back to that magical day. Plus, I thought it was high time to read this book. :P
This book comprises of 9 chapters featuring everything that is Harry Potter and of course the history on magic, folklore, magical beasts. From cauldrons to broomsticks to scrolls to potions and plants to well everything, there is a ton that is explored. Each chapter is led by an essay written by a person of interest (though I already forgot what kind of things they were doing, or well 7 of the 9 I forgot, there are two that I remember an astronaut and the guy who made the movies). I have to say I wasn't that interested in these stories, I came here for Harry Potter, for magic, for illustrations and images of the exhibition. Still I read them, and sure some held some interesting and fun parts. I do think that maybe if the font had been bigger I would have enjoyed it much more. Now it was later on the evening and my eyes weren't too happy with the tininess.
But the rest is just wonderful. There is so much to discover, to read, to find out about magic and Harry Potter. I just loved seeing the drafts, see the early illustrations and ideas that Rowling had (and it was even better in real life). It was so interesting to read. I loved that there were added quotes, I remember those were also in the exhibition, they really made everything more fun and magical.
There are also notes from the curators of the exhibition.
Plus, you make my day with the Jim Kay illustrations of the series. He really captures everyone perfectly!
This is an exceptional book that is a must have for any Harry Potter and magic fan.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
March 21, 2019
A History of Magic is exactly like the title suggests. It is an encyclopedia of all the references of magical elements, remarkable names, objects in the Harry Potter series. For a true fan of the HP series, this is like a gold mine that has all the good bits of information along with tons of vibrant and colourful pictures. It also includes many manuscripts, letters and many other HP related objects that belong to the author J.K.Rowling.
While personally I found a few chapters a bit too tedius, it may not be the case for everyone. Furthermore, it is a collector's item that is a must have in every HP fan's library.
While personally I found a few chapters a bit too tedius, it may not be the case for everyone. Furthermore, it is a collector's item that is a must have in every HP fan's library.
November 25, 2019
Don't take my rating too serious, I don't think this is the kind of book to rate. It's a fun read, nice add for all the potterheads. Great art, fun little facts. I'm glad I have this book in my HP collection.
August 4, 2018
BOOKTUBEATHON 2018 - Challenge #6 Read a book with a beautiful spine.
What is there to say?! I absolutely loved it and wished I could have gone to the exhibition....
What is there to say?! I absolutely loved it and wished I could have gone to the exhibition....
March 7, 2018
I received a copy of Harry Potter: A History of Magic from Bloomsbury Australia to review.
I read a copy of Harry Potter: A Journey Through a History of Magic last year and even though I liked it, I felt like the target audience was families and children. If you want to check out my review of that edition you can here. But this edition definitely has a lot more information and is targeted toward older readers.
I haven’t been to the exhibition, even though I’d love to, so I can’t say if all of what is shown at the exhibition is included in the book. But I don’t see why it wouldn’t…
I had read some things in this from the other edition. But this one had a lot more information. My favourite parts were from Rowling’s archives and the illustrations from Jim Kay and Olivia Lomenech Gill. I did like reading all the other parts of the exhibit, especially because I won’t see it in person. They were really interesting.
There’s no question that I preferred this edition of Harry Potter: A History of Magic to the other one. I do wish that I could see it in person but I’m glad that Bloomsbury, J.K. Rowling and The British Library created this amazing book for people who can’t travel to London.
If you’re a fan of Harry Potter then I definitely recommend reading a copy of this. Especially if you can’t see it in person too.
I read a copy of Harry Potter: A Journey Through a History of Magic last year and even though I liked it, I felt like the target audience was families and children. If you want to check out my review of that edition you can here. But this edition definitely has a lot more information and is targeted toward older readers.
I haven’t been to the exhibition, even though I’d love to, so I can’t say if all of what is shown at the exhibition is included in the book. But I don’t see why it wouldn’t…
I had read some things in this from the other edition. But this one had a lot more information. My favourite parts were from Rowling’s archives and the illustrations from Jim Kay and Olivia Lomenech Gill. I did like reading all the other parts of the exhibit, especially because I won’t see it in person. They were really interesting.
There’s no question that I preferred this edition of Harry Potter: A History of Magic to the other one. I do wish that I could see it in person but I’m glad that Bloomsbury, J.K. Rowling and The British Library created this amazing book for people who can’t travel to London.
If you’re a fan of Harry Potter then I definitely recommend reading a copy of this. Especially if you can’t see it in person too.
October 19, 2018
Plot - 3/5
Characters - 3/5
World Building - 3/5
Writing Style - 3/5
Cover - 3/5
Overall Rating - 3 / 5
Characters - 3/5
World Building - 3/5
Writing Style - 3/5
Cover - 3/5
Overall Rating - 3 / 5
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