The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.K.Rowling, UK, 2008
This short work, comprising five tales for children, assumes some acquaintance with the Harry Potter books by the same author. Characters from these books are referred to in the tales, and it is assumed that the reader has already made their acquaintance. Moreover, each tale includes a critique by Professor Albus Dumbledore, who was the headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Mention of Professor Dumbledore’s prowess is made in the short preface to the book; however, for anyone unacquainted with the Harry Potter books this would probably not mean very much.
The book is actually referred to in one of the later Harry Potter Books, and the references and links between the tales and the actual Harry Potter books are very cleverly managed.
I have heard that the original book (The Tales of Beedle the Bard) – a limited edition of seven copies – was exquisitely handwritten and hand illustrated by Rowling. Each copy was beautifully bound in leather with silver embellishments and semiprecious stones. Six of these copies were given to people involved with the production of the Harry Potter series; the seventh was auctioned for charity (The Children’s Voice) and raised US$ 3.98 million.
Written primarily for children, this is an easily read book but still enjoyable, especially for those who are well acquainted with the Harry Potter books.
2 Replies to “The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.K.Rowling, UK, 2008”
Your review brings back happy memories of reading the Harry Potter series (and the references to these tales in the later book). I had no idea there was such a limited edition of the original book, hand written and bound. I can imagine this could inspire authors to hang on to the hand-written versions of their books 🙂
Who knows – perhaps they are worth thousands…