Everything MuggleNet Loves About “Harry Potter Illustrated”

by · October 7, 2015

It’s been approximately 24 hours since the release of Jim Kay’s illustrated edition of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. If you’re anything like us, you’ve spent the best part of the past day devouring every inch of the book and will already have you favorite moments, sketches, and characters.

We thought we’d take a moment to throw out a few of our staff members’ favorites, along with some of the tidbits we picked up from last night’s global book launch with Jim Kay at the House of Illustration.

Jim Kay’s eclectic inspiration is utterly charming. 

I loved how Jim’s illustrations are inspired by the natural world – and how the Great Hall is supported by trees and has trees growing through it! The combination of magical and natural was really interesting.” – Sophie

While his techniques and attention to detail are truly mind-blowing. 

The book is absolutely breathtaking. Each illustration is full of such detail and isn’t too childlike; it’s enjoyable for all. The book as a whole is a piece of art.” – Ashley

How intricate and personal Diagon Alley was. The drawing includes Kay’s pet greyhound, the [f]rogs [and t]oad shop Bufo was named after a pet toad he kept as a child, and the sign ‘Batrachian Bargains’ was inspired by the League of Gentlemen.” – Martin

We’re also loving the chance to prompt our childhood imaginations.

I like the reclamation of the way the characters are described in the book vs the the movie. It’s been so long now, I’d started thinking of Dudley as having brown hair – but that’s wrong! He’s blonde. And that’s just one example. I really enjoy getting that back – it’s something that’s always bothered me about the films.” – Jessica

I love the first page of illustrations with Dudley looking so miserably spoiled in all of the photos. It makes you start off the book with already a visual understanding of the relationships within it. It’s amazing.” – Cheyenne

For some, simply holding the book got a little much!

As soon as it was in my hands, I just wanted to sit there and soak it all in. Looking at the illustrations, I laughed, I sighed, and I gasped in delight.” – Alison

I like the size! It feels like a substantial, truly different version of the series we already love.” – Kat

And the scenes that have evoked the strongest response? 

I think my favorite illustration is Dumbledore and Harry in the Mirror of Erised room. I love that the illustrations don’t feel too childlike. They really play to a wide range of audiences, making the book an experience for both young and old readers.” – Amy

The visceral reaction I had to several of the drawings, particularly the punch in the gut feeling I got when I turned to the [M]irror of [E]rised chapter with Harry with his nose against the glass. So raw and real.” – Beth

All in all, we can’t help but think illustrated Harry Potter is a total success.

What do you love about these new editions? Which book are you most looking forward to? Let us know below!

And if you’d like to read more about Jim Kay’s thoughts on illustrating Harry Potter, be sure to check out the “Great Big ‘Harry Potter’ Fansite Interview.”