by Newt Scamander (a.k.a. J.K. Rowling)
42 pages
and
Quidditch Through the Ages
by Kennilworthy Whisp (a.k.a. J.K. Rowling)
56 pages
Scholastic Press
Recommended for all ages
Newt Scamander's Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them begins with a brief history of the classification of beasts and beings. Scamander then gives an A-Z rundown of the fantastic beasts known to the wizarding world. Under each beast's entry, Scamander describes the creature's physical characteristics and its habitat, details the history of its relations with wizards, and rates how dangerous it is to people. For those who wish to learn more, Scamander's footnotes offer references for further reading. From the Acromantula to the Yeti, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them covers every magical creature known to man -- though, as Albus Dumbledore reminds Muggle readers in the foreword, "the amusing creatures described hereafter are fictional and cannot hurt you."
A second Hogwarts release, Kennilworthy Whisp's Quidditch Through the Ages, provides readers with a look at the development of Quidditch, today the most popular game among wizards all over the world. Whisp covers the evolution of Quidditch, from its beginnings in the Middle Ages to its present form, and the basic rules of the game. In addition, he profiles the major Quidditch teams playing today. For anyone fascinated by Quidditch, Kennilworthy Whisp's book is a great read -- although, as Albus Dumbledore assures any curious Muggles, Quidditch "is, of course, an entirely fictional sport and nobody really plays it."
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and Quidditch Through the Ages are both entertaining books, perfect for people of all ages. Even those who have never read a Harry Potter book will enjoy Newt Scamander's and Kennilworthy Whisp's classics. Moreover, the profits from sales of these two books go to Comic Relief UK, a charity that helps children around the world. As Albus Dumbledore says, "If you feel that this is insufficient reason to part with your money, I can only hope most sincerely that passing wizards feel more charitable if they ever see you being attacked by a Manticore."
Go To Page: 1 2
