Sequels, Prequels, or Something Else?
Before fans get their hopes up for a new seven-part epic, it’s important to clarify what these new books are. The upcoming titles are not new novels that continue Harry's story or explore the lives of the next generation. Instead, publisher Bloomsbury
has announced two new additions to its 'Pocket Potters: Little Guides to the Harry Potter Stories' collection. These are illustrated companion guides designed to be accessible for younger readers and collectible for long-time fans. The series revisits beloved characters, offering a deep dive into their stories through quotes, trivia, and details drawn from J.K. Rowling's original books. So, while new stories aren't on the table, fans will get a fresh way to engage with some of their favourite witches and wizards.
Spotlight on Fan-Favourite Characters
The two new guides, scheduled for release in early 2027, will focus on two of the series' most iconic figures: Professor Minerva McGonagall and the mischievous Weasley twins, Fred and George. The McGonagall guide, illustrated by Natalie Smillie, will explore the memorable moments of the stern but fair Head of Gryffindor, including why she bought Harry his first broomstick and her ability to transform into a cat. The second book, illustrated by Helen Brady, will celebrate Fred and George Weasley, covering their legendary pranks, their mastery of Hogwarts' secret passages, and the creation of their magical joke shop, Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes. These will be the eighth and ninth books in the Pocket Potters collection, which already includes guides for characters like Dumbledore, Luna Lovegood, and Dobby.
Release Dates and Author Credits
The UK release for both 'Pocket Potters: Professor McGonagall' and 'Pocket Potters: Fred and George Weasley' is set for February 23, 2027, from Bloomsbury Children's Books. A US release from Scholastic is expected to follow shortly after, with some retailers listing a date of March 2, 2027. While J.K. Rowling is credited as the author on both titles, this reflects that the content is drawn entirely from her original work. There has been no statement from Rowling herself about the new releases, and reports confirm she has not written new fictional content for these guides. The project is a publishing initiative to present existing lore in a new format.
A Big Year for the Wizarding World
The timing of these new books is no coincidence. Their release follows closely on the heels of the highly anticipated HBO television series adaptation of 'Harry Potter', set to premiere on Christmas Day 2026. The new series, which will retell the story of the books with a new cast, is expected to introduce a whole new generation to the magic of Hogwarts. The TV tie-in edition of 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone', featuring cover art from the HBO series, was already released in November 2026. The 'Pocket Potters' guides are positioned to capitalize on this renewed interest, offering a perfect entry point for new, young fans and a nostalgic collectible for those who grew up with the original stories.
