Quidditch Through the Ages (Harry Potter) - Hardcover

Gr. 4-7. Because this is a "Harry Potterless" year, kids in need of a fix may find it in these two volumes. The conceit is that these are Harry's schoolbooks (Fantastic Beasts, by Newt Scamander; Quidditch, by Kennilworthy Whisp), with margin notes by Harry and pal Ron Weasley. The concept breaks down in the introductions: Professor Dumbledore explains that the books are being offered to muggles (because the proceeds of the books are going to British charity Comic Relief, a disclosure that will raise the eyebrows of any reader who undestands the importance of secrecy in the wizard world. Nevertheless, a lot of effort has gone into making these seem like real textbooks. The jackets look torn and faded, the print is (annoyingly) small, and the information is well detailed. Illustrations are in short supply, and not every fan will want to know this much about Quidditch and imaginary beasts, especially when the text is so hard to read. Buy several copies (the money really does go to charity), but expect a few disappointed readers. Ilene Cooper
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