The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.K. Rowling Illustrated by Chris Riddell - Ages 9+ - Hardback

An essential companion to the Harry Potter books and a magical gift for all Harry Potter fans, The Tales of Beedle the Bard is a collection of fairy tales from the Wizarding World, with wise and witty notes from Professor Albus Dumbledore (via the enchanted pen of J.K. Rowling ). Multi-talented Muggle illustrator Chris Riddell makes this book a complete visual treat, the pages bursting with glorious colour, beautiful lines and stunning composition - with some familiar faces from the Harry Potter novels themselves popping up in the deliciously original and subversive Dumbledore's notes. Packed with colour illustrations and a spectacular gatefold spread, this follows the globally bestselling illustrated editions of the Harry Potter novels (Jim Kay) and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (Olivia Lomenech Gill) as an absolute must for fans of all ages.

Joining the hand-picked band of illustration talent lending their own magic to the world of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts , former Waterstones Children's Laureate Chris Riddell is the only illustrator to have won the Kate Greenaway Medal three times and is brought together here for the first time with one of the world's best-loved storytellers in this new edition of J.K. Rowling's fairy tale classic. Much loved by generations of witches and wizards since they first appeared in the fifteenth century and translated from the original runes by Hermione Granger, this beautifully illustrated edition is set to become a firm favourite at bedtime in non-magical households the world over.

This enchanting book features five magical tales that were first mentioned in the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows book . The tales are presented in their original form with translations by Hermione Granger, providing insight into the wizarding world's culture and traditions.

Mischievous and witty, the five rollicking tales are a deeply satisfying read in the tradition of all great fables and fairy tales. Kindnesses are rewarded, and selfishness is shown to be the ruin of many a wizard. Burping cauldrons, hairy hearts and cackling stumps are met along the way. Each tale is brought vividly to life with Riddell's trademark humour and elegance, including ' The Tale of the Three Brothers ', familiar to readers of Harry Potter from the crucial role it played in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

The five tales in this book are ‘The Wizard and the Hopping Pot ,' ‘ The Fountain of Fair Fortune ,' ‘ The Warlock's Hairy Heart ,' ‘ Babbitty Rabbitty and her Cackling Stump ,' and ‘ The Tale of the Three Brothers' . Each tale is unique and captivating, offering readers a glimpse into the wizarding world's mythology and lore. The stories are full of magic, adventure, and lessons, making them suitable for readers of all ages.

‘The Wizard and the Hopping Pot ' tells the story of a kind wizard who is forced to help the people in his village when they come to him seeking help. He uses his magical pot, which hops around on one leg, to cure their illnesses and solve their problems. This story teaches readers about the importance of kindness and helping others, even when it may not be convenient.

‘The Fountain of Fair Fortune ,' tells the tale of three witches and a knight who seek out the Fountain of Fair Fortune in hopes of being cured of their ailments. The journey to the fountain is full of obstacles, but the group works together to overcome them. This story teaches readers about the power of teamwork and perseverance.

‘ The Warlock's Hairy Heart ' is a cautionary tale about a warlock who removes his heart to avoid falling in love, only to realize too late the true cost of his decision. This story teaches readers about the dangers of denying one's emotions and the importance of listening to one's heart.

‘ Babbitty Rabbitty and her Cackling Stump ' is a story about a king who seeks to become a powerful wizard and the wise washerwoman who helps him realize the truth about magic. This story teaches readers about the importance of humility and how true power comes from within.

Finally, ‘ The Tale of the Three Brothers ' is a well-known story from the Harry Potter series that tells the tale of three brothers who outsmart Death by using their magical artefacts- The elder wand, the invisibility cloak, and the stone of resurrection. This story teaches readers about the consequences of greed and the importance of accepting death as a natural part of life.

Overall, The Tales of Beedle the Bard is a beautifully illustrated and enchanting book that offers readers a glimpse into the rich mythology and lore of the wizarding world. J.K. Rowling's masterful storytelling, combined with Chris Riddell's captivating illustrations, creates a book that is sure to delight readers of all ages. The stories are full of magic, adventure, and valuable lessons that make them perfect for bedtime reading or for anyone seeking a magical escape. The Tales of Beedle the Bard is a timeless classic that will be enjoyed for generations to come.

About the Author:

J.K. Rowling is a British author and philanthropist best known for creating the Harry Potter series , which has become one of the most successful and beloved book series of all time. Born on July 31, 1965, in Yate, Gloucestershire, England, Rowling grew up in a working-class family with a love of books and storytelling.

Rowling's love of writing began at an early age, and she wrote her first book at the age of six. After studying French and Classics at the University of Exeter, Rowling moved to London to work as a researcher and bilingual secretary. It was during this time that she began writing the first Harry Potter book.

In 1995, Rowling finished writing the first Harry Potter book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and submitted it to several publishers. After being rejected by several publishers, the book was finally picked up by Bloomsbury Publishing, and the rest, as they say, is history. The book became an instant bestseller, and Rowling went on to write six more books in the series.

The Harry Potter series has since sold over 500 million copies worldwide and has been translated into 80 languages. The books have inspired a film franchise, theme parks, merchandise, and a passionate fan community. Rowling's work has earned her numerous awards and honours, including an OBE for services to children's literature.