Harry Potter: A History of Magic stands as 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 takes readers on a fascinating journey through the subjects taught at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, from Alchemy and Potions to Herbology and Care of Magical Creatures. Every chapter showcases treasures drawn from the British Library and collections around the world, alongside exclusive manuscripts, sketches and illustrations from the Harry Potter archive. Each subject also comes with a specially commissioned essay from an expert, writer or cultural commentator inspired by the exhibition – absorbing, insightful and unexpected perspectives from Steve Backshall, the Reverend Richard Coles, Owen Davies, Julia Eccleshare, Roger Highfield, Steve Kloves, Lucy Mangan, Anna Pavord and Tim Peake. Readers can pore over ancient spell books, amazing illuminated scrolls revealing the secret of the Elixir of Life, vials of dragon’s blood, mandrake roots, painted centaurs and a genuine witch’s broomstick, placing J.K. Rowling’s magical inventions alongside their real cultural and historical forebears. This is the ultimate gift for Harry Potter fans, curious minds, big imaginations, bibliophiles, and anyone around the world who missed their chance to see the exhibition in person.
ISBN 13: 9781408890769
Author: British Library
