Harry's New Look

I dunno about you guys, but I definitely grew up with Harry Potter.

Granted, that sentence implies two untruths. The first being that I have grown up, the second being that Harry Potter is no longer an important part of my life. My quidditch themed messenger bag would prove otherwise.

As would my Harry Potter Pillowcase.

And the hundred of Wrock songs on my iPod.

And the fact that I wore my Gryffindor scarf and tie during my valedictory speech.

But I digress.


The new Harry Potter covers are being released on the day marking the 15th anniversary of Scholastic's publication of The Sorcerer's Stone in the United States.

I don't know about you guys, but that number causes some very conflicting emotions. I am so grateful to this series because of the positive impact that it had on me and so many aspects of my life. It has made helped shape the last fifteen years of my life in wonderful ways. But also? HOW. HOW HAS IS POSSIBLY BEEN THAT LONG.

My own copy of The Sorcerer's Stone, given to me by my uncle right after my ninth birthday, is tattered. The cover is completely torn off and folded in multiple places. The spine is so cracked that I don't genuinely think this copy is even readable. My friend recently got me a new copy (a UK edition, woo hoo!), so this poor sucker to your right can get a little rest.

Because, man. Twelve years is pretty good for a book as loved as this one.

The only thing that scares me more than the knowledge that it has been fifteen years since the series debut in the states, is that the series ended in 2007. 

That means, it has been five years since the last publication.

I remember freaking out over the last book, holing myself up and refusing to speak to anyone (Except to request tea from my mother, of course. Small comforts.). I was simultaneously enjoyed to have another installment and wanting to devour it as soon as possible, but also wanting to put of the inevitable breakdown that would come with the end.

And, as like all good things, it did end.

This new publication will not replace Mary GrandPré's classic U.S. cover illustrations, which will still be featured on hardcover and mass paperback printings. This edition is instead meant to target a new audience.

"What audience?" you might find yourselves asking. "We're right here!"

The fact is, whether we realize it or not, there is a whole generation of new readers. This cover is targeting those 8 and nine year olds who have grown up, not on the books, but the films. 

And what a wonderful adventure awaits them.

((SOURCE: For more information, check out this article))