We’ve always been fond of Halloween: what could be better than ghost stories, toffee apples, mulled cider, costumes, spooky films, a plethora of sweets and general merriment?
However if seems as if Halloween 2017 is going to be the best one yet, because it’s now been confirmed that not just one, but two brand-new Harry Potter books are winging their way to shelves this October.
Be still our beating hearts.
The two books are set to accompany a special exhibition at the British Library (don’t worry, they won’t be in the restricted section) and they sound like absolute humdingers.
First up, we have Harry Potter: A History of Magic, The Book of the Exhibition which promises to delve into each and every single one of the subjects studied at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Think Potions, Transfiguration, Charms, Herbology and Care of Magical Creatures, to name just a few.
A press release from Bloomsbury Publishing explains: “Each chapter showcases a treasure trove of artefacts from the British Library and other collections around the world, beside exclusive manuscripts, sketches and illustrations from the Harry Potter archive.
“There's also a specially commissioned essay for each subject area by an expert, writer or cultural commentator, inspired by the contents of the exhibition – absorbing, insightful and unexpected contributions from Steve Backshall, the Reverend Richard Coles, Owen Davies, Julia Eccleshare, Roger Highfield, Steve Kloves, Lucy Mangan, Anna Pavord and Tim Peake, who offer a personal perspective on their magical theme.
“Readers will be able to pore over ancient spell books, amazing illuminated scrolls that reveal the secret of the Elixir of Life, vials of dragon's blood, mandrake roots, painted centaurs and a genuine witch's broomstick, in a book that shows JK Rowling's magical inventions alongside their cultural and historical forebears.”
As if that weren’t enough to sate our lust for all things wizarding, we also have Harry Potter, A Journey Through a History of Magic.
This means we can unleash our inner Hermione Granger and embark on a historical journey of Harry Potter's world, delving into the stories behind spells, magical creatures, wizards and witches.
Bloomsbury says: “This spellbinding book takes readers on a journey through the Hogwarts curriculum, including Herbology, Defence Against the Dark Arts, Astronomy, Divination and more. Discover the truth behind making the Philosopher's Stone, create your very own potion and uncover the secret of invisible ink.
“Learn all about the history of mandrake roots and dragons, discover what witches really used their brooms for, pore over incredible images of actual mermaids and read about real-life potions, astronomers and alchemists.”
When we finished the final page of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows all those years ago, we thought that was it. Harry, Hermione, and Ron are all grown up, Voldemort has finally been defeated, most of our favourite characters are dead and peace finally reigns supreme in the wizarding universe.
How wrong we were.
Not only have we since been delivered a sequel in the form of play The Cursed Child, but JK Rowling also revealed that there are five (yes, FIVE) films planned for the Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them franchise.
Throw in these two books and it seems as if Harry Potter will forever be the gift that keeps on giving. Roll on Halloween…
Images: Warner Bros
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