2 new Harry Potter-related books coming this fall

The Jacobite Steam Train, made famous in JK Rowling's Harry Potter as the Hogwarts Express

Credit: Alan Copson

Credit: Alan Copson

The Jacobite Steam Train, made famous in JK Rowling's Harry Potter as the Hogwarts Express

In celebration of the 20th year anniversary of the release of the first book in the Harry Potter series, J.K. Rowling has announced plans for an exhibit about the fictional wizard at the British Library.

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In collaboration, two new series-related books will be released.

"Harry Potter: A History of Magic" is the official book of the exhibition, and it promises to "take readers on a fascinating journey through the subjects studied at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry -- from Alchemy and Potions classes through to Herbology and Care of Magical Creatures," according to Bloomsbury Publishing. According to the publisher, readers can "discover the truth behind making the Philosopher's Stone, create (a) potion and uncover the secret of invisible ink. (Plus) learn all about the history of mandrake roots and dragons, discover what witches really used their brooms for, pore over incredible images of actual mermaids and read about real-life potions, astronomers and alchemists."

The second book, "Harry Potter: A Journey Through the History of Magic," takes readers "on a journey through the Hogwarts curriculum, including Defense Against the Dark Arts, Astronomy, Divination and more," a description on the British Library's official website reads. The book features exclusive, unseen sketches and manuscripts from Rowling and magical illustrations.

Both books will be released in October.

The first book in the Harry Potter series, “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” was released in the United Kingdom June 26, 1997.  It was released in the U.S. in 1998 with the title “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.”