The Magical Worlds of Harry Potter: A Treasury of Myths, Legends, and Fascinating Facts

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Anyone who has read the Harry Potter books is aware that author J.K. Rowling infuses her stories with references to mythology, literature, history, and legends. Even if you don't know exactly what a manticore or a griffin is, it's likely that many readers have at least a vague sense of the existence of these creatures in ancient lore. Inspired by Rowling's suggestion to a young fan to "go and look it up," author David Colbert did quite a bit of investigation himself. The result is the fun, entertaining, and enlightening Magical Worlds of Harry Potter.

FROM OUR EDITORS

The Barnes & Noble Review
The reasons why goblins make perfect bankers and witches have always flown on broomsticks isn't obvious from J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter books, but lucky for us, many baffling questions are answered in David Colbert's helpful guide to the myths, legends, and fascinating facts behind our favorite wizard's worlds.

With subjects in alphabetical order, this solid resource provides quick-reference explanations to all the creatures, spells, character names, and events. Each chapter starts off with a lead-in question, followed by two or more pages of description and additional interesting facts in the margins. Magical topics themselves range from divination to Manticores to wands, and the most basic information usually includes name origin, appropriate historical facts, and myths surrounding the subject. It's a lot to absorb, but thankfully the book also contains page-topic tabs, cross-references in the margins, and a thorough index for easy navigation.

Any Potter fan anxious to delve beyond the pages of Rowling's novels will discover that besides being a master writer, she also knows her history and mythology. Colbert expertly shows us what's factored into her work, and it's a treat. Harry Potter lovers will see this as a must-have for their collections, while teachers, librarians, and parents can easily use it to start discussions on past people or events. An impressive tool that's not to be missed. Matt Warner

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Have witches always flown on broomsticks?
Where does magic come from?
Why do wizards use wands?


J.K. Rowling's young heroic wizard, Harry Potter, lives in a world populated by dragons, centaurs, trolls, giants-and a three-headed dog named Fluffy-among other creatures from ancient myths and legends. Discover the astonishing origins of supernatural beasts, clues to hidden meanings in names, and amazing facts about real-life wizards and magic spells. From Alchemists to Unicorns, Basilisks to Veela, this fascinating compendium brings another dimension to Harry's adventures.

About the Author:

Formerly a head writer of television's "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" and an editorial director of HarperCollins, David Colbert has authored several acclaimed collections of history and literature including the popular "Eyewitness" series.

This book was not authorized, prepared, approved, licensed or endorsed by J.K. Rowling, Warner Bros., or any other individual or entity associated with the Harry Potter books or movie.

SYNOPSIS

J. K. Rowling fills her books with references to history, myths, legends and literature. Here are the stories behind the stories – the astonishing origins of magical creatures, the clues to hidden meanings in names, and stories of real-life wizards mentioned in the Harry Potter series.

FROM THE CRITICS

Time Magazine

When noting that Hogwarts caretaker Argus Filch gets his name from the Argus of Greek mythology, a watchman with a thousand eyes on his body, it￯﾿ﾽs the sort of touch that can prompt an author￯﾿ﾽs inward smile.

Baltimore Sun

Digs deep into different cultures and mythologies to piece together the origins of Rowling's characters. Learn about griffins, goblins, Latin, and why Harry is a universal hero.

School Library Journal