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.


The photo of J.K.Rowling is from Daily Mail,  and the photo of the limited-edition book is from BBC