The magic is far from over. Chatter about new Harry Potter books set for a 2027 release has sent a wave of excitement through the fandom, but these aren't the new novels you might be picturing. Here is the full story of what's coming.
New Stories or Something Else?
First, let's address
the Patronus in the room: the two new books announced for 2027 are not sequels or new narrative fiction continuing the story of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Instead, publisher Bloomsbury has confirmed they are the latest additions to its 'Pocket Potters: Little Guides to the Harry Potter Stories' series. These are collectible, 32-page illustrated hardback guides designed to explore specific characters. While credited to J.K. Rowling, they revisit moments and details from the original seven books rather than introducing new plotlines. The aim is to offer a colourful and accessible entry point for younger readers while also serving as a charming collectible for longtime fans.
Meet the Stars: McGonagall and the Weasleys
The upcoming guides will shine a spotlight on three beloved supporting characters. The first is 'Pocket Potters: Professor McGonagall'. Illustrated by Natalie Smillie, this book will delve into the formidable Head of Gryffindor, covering everything from her Transfiguration skills and ability to turn into a cat to why she gave Harry his first broomstick. The second book, 'Pocket Potters: Fred and George Weasley', features illustrations by Helen Brady. It will celebrate the iconic prankster twins, exploring their greatest antics, their encyclopedic knowledge of Hogwarts' secret passages, and the story behind their magical joke shop, Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes.
A Deeper Dive into the Pocket Potters
For those unfamiliar, this isn't a new series. The 'Pocket Potters' collection first launched in 2025 and already includes several volumes. Previous guides have focused on key figures like Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Albus Dumbledore, Luna Lovegood, Rubeus Hagrid, and Dobby the House Elf. The additions of Professor McGonagall and the Weasley twins mark the eighth and ninth entries in this growing library of character-centric companions. Each book is designed to give fans a concentrated dose of nostalgia and information, presenting known facts and memorable quotes in a visually engaging format.
Mark Your Calendars: Release Dates and Details
Fans eager to add these to their collection should mark their calendars for early 2027. Bloomsbury is set to release both the McGonagall and Weasley guides in the UK on February 23, 2027. Readers in the US will have a slightly longer wait, with a release date scheduled for March 2, 2027. The books are already available for preorder from various retailers. These releases are separate from other major Wizarding World projects, most notably the highly anticipated HBO television adaptation of the Harry Potter series.
Keeping the Magic Alive
While the announcement might not be the eighth Harry Potter novel some fans were hoping for, the release of these guides serves an important purpose for the franchise. They provide a steady stream of new content to keep the world vibrant, especially for a new generation of readers who may be discovering Hogwarts for the first time through the upcoming TV series. For older fans, they are a compact, affordable, and visually appealing way to revisit the characters that defined a generation. The guides act as a bridge, honouring the rich history of the original stories while the franchise continues to evolve on screen and in other media.
