The magic is back. A new announcement has confirmed that the wizarding world is expanding, with two new Harry Potter books set for release in 2027. But before you imagine a return to Platform 9¾ for a brand-new novel, let's dive into the details.
The Official Announcement
On November
10, 2026, publisher Bloomsbury Children's Books officially announced two new titles set in the Harry Potter universe, sparking immediate excitement across the global fanbase. The books are scheduled for a UK release on February 23, 2027, with a US release expected shortly after on March 2, 2027. However, the key detail lies not in the 'when' but in the 'what'. These are not full-length novels continuing the adventures of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Instead, they are companion pieces designed to celebrate some of the franchise's most beloved characters.
Meet the 'Pocket Potters' Series
The new books are the latest additions to the 'Pocket Potters: Little Guides to the Harry Potter Stories' collection, a series first launched in 2025. These titles are collectible, 32-page illustrated hardcover guides. Their purpose is to revisit established characters and their most memorable moments from the original seven-book series, making them accessible for younger readers and offering a nostalgic collectible for longtime fans. The two new releases will be the eighth and ninth entries in the collection, which already includes guides for figures like Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Albus Dumbledore, and Dobby.
A Spotlight on Fan Favourites
So, who gets the star treatment in 2027? The new guides will focus on two of the wizarding world's most iconic supporting characters: Professor Minerva McGonagall and the mischievous twins, Fred and George Weasley. 'Pocket Potters: Professor McGonagall', illustrated by Natalie Smillie, will explore the character's fierce loyalty, her history as a 'Hatstall', and memorable moments like gifting Harry his first broomstick. 'Pocket Potters: Fred and George Weasley', with illustrations by Helen Brady, will dive into the twins' legendary pranks, their discovery of Hogwarts' secret passages, and the founding of their joke shop, Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes.
J.K. Rowling's Role Explained
While J.K. Rowling is credited as the author for both guides, it's important to note that this is because the content—including quotes, trivia, and story details—is drawn entirely from her original novels. There has been no statement from Rowling or her representatives to suggest she has written new fictional material for these guides. The project is more of a curated celebration of her existing world, with illustrators Natalie Smillie and Helen Brady bringing the character-focused narratives to life visually.
A New Era for the Wizarding World
This announcement doesn't exist in a vacuum. It comes at a time of renewed energy for the Harry Potter franchise. The book release is strategically timed just a few months after the highly anticipated premiere of the new HBO 'Harry Potter' television series, which is set to debut on Christmas Day 2026. That series, a reboot adapting the original novels, is expected to introduce the wizarding world to a whole new generation. These 'Pocket Potters' books appear perfectly positioned to serve as an entry point for those new fans while giving established ones a fresh way to celebrate their favourite characters.
