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medium-paced

Loved this book, enough that I am considering getting my own copy to keep. (Something I rarely do as I prefer to use my library and keep book buying costs down)
The magic and the stories behind the ideas and concepts of the Harry Potter series brings the series to life so much more for me now after reading this book.
❤❤❤❤❤❤ it.

I listened to this one. It was amazing. I love that so many people involved with the books and exhibition got to share their experiences with Harry Potter. I can’t wait to get through the hardcover book, and Nick said that there is a sweet DVD that ALSO goes with it that shows all the things talked about in the audiobook, so I can’t wait to see that too!

Also, THE TALk ABOUT WISCONSIN bc HODAGS! So, thanks Rhinelander for being so weird and magical!

Fascinating book that looks back in time through history to discuss the origins of various magical practices, cultural origins, and modern day traditions. The audiobook is an absolute must listen with its variety of contributors including academics and voice actors. Don't let the title fool you, this book really only uses the wizarding world as a framework to explore the real-life inspirations of the magic within.

A fun read for any true fan! I think I was expecting this to be the "Hogwarts: A History" that Hermione is constantly referencing, but it actually is exactly what the subtitle says. It's like reading a documentary on magic through the ages, combined with the writing of, narration of, and illustration of the Harry Potter series. The narrator in the audio version interviews a lot of curators of Harry Potter exhibits in British Museums so in that sense it's kind of like listening to an extended podcast. One interviewee in particular really got on my nerves because his voice is so breathy. Aside from that, it was enjoyable and rounded out the experience of the books from a whole new angle.

So much cool stuff in this!

It’s a bit of a hodgepodge of information and random trivia in places.

Definitively do audio! It’s part interview, documentary, history lesson, book excerpts- really good! Narrator is Natalie Dormer (Marjorie from Game of Thornes) and she’s excellent! Learned very cool facts and behind the “scenes” information! Recommend for a Potter fan!

I was in it for the historical connections, but many were a stretch or nonexistent. Beautiful pictures though.
adventurous hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted reflective medium-paced

This isn't a book just for Potter-heads. If you're interested in folklore from all over the world, as well as world-building, herbalism, world history and different cultures, then I would highly recommend this book to you!

With the Audiobook you get excerpts from both the UK and US Harry Potter series, you also get excerpts from the documentary by the experts themselves as well as a very cozy and well suited soundtrack throughout! Not to mention the narrator herself Natalie Dormer of whom has a wonderful voice that I could listen to for much longer 💫

If you were to buy a physical copy of the book then you would have access to the illustrations, something that is only described to the listener of the audiobook. But despite this I would still highly recommend the audiobook! It makes up for the lack of illustrations with it's ever intriguing dialogue, narration and descriptors.