Scholastic has just released special 20th anniversary editions of the seven HARRY POTTER books by J.K. Rowling.
Are your Harry Potter books worn and dog-eared from all the times you’ve reread them? You’re in luck, because the 20th anniversary editions are set to be released on June 26th – and the new black-and-white covers are stunning. When put together, the seven covers become a long mural:
These cleverly-designed covers were created by artist Brian Selznick, known for writing and illustrating The Invention of Hugo Cabret and Wonderstruck. A collectible box set also illustrated by Selznick is set to be released in September. An avid Harry Potter reader himself, Selznick was delighted by the opportunity.
I’m a huge Harry Potter fan myself (a proud Hufflepuff!) and to be asked to illustrate the 20th anniversary edition covers was an absolute honor. I knew this project came with so much responsibility to the stories, as well as to the readers. I revisited the books and was especially moved by the relationships between the characters in J.K. Rowling’s magical world, so I wanted these covers to reflect that. One of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of the process was drawing seven independent covers that would stand on their own, while making sure that they also lined up to create one single satisfying image. It took dozens and dozens of sketches to get it right, and I am thrilled to share my great love for the books with these new illustrations.
The 20th anniversary editions are not the only Harry Potter-related events happening this year: we can also look forward to celebrations at bookstores, libraries, schools, and festivals; Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in its Broadway debut this month; the Harry Potter: A History of Magic exhibit opening at the New York Historical Society in October; and last but certainly not least, the release of Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald on November 10th.
Check out the new covers below, and let us know what Harry Potter event you’re most excited for this year!
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