Written by J.K. Rowling & Illustrated by Jim Kay
SUMMARY:
Released by Arthur Levine Books (a Scholastic imprint) for the U.S. in 2016, this 259-page deluxe hardcover reprints J.K. Rowling’s second Harry Potter novel (1998) as an illustrated storybook. Returning to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry for their second year, twelve-year old Harry Potter and his two best friends, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, embark on a new adventure. Revelations of a mysterious chamber lurking deep beneath Hogwarts has Harry, Ron, and Hermione discreetly conducting an investigation. Yet, unforeseen circumstances send Harry into a rematch against the wizarding world’s most feared evil (who shall not be named).
REVIEW:
Aside from the wincing opening pages re: the Dursleys’ indefensible neglect of their nephew, Rowling’s novel remains a sheer delight. Boasting high-caliber production values (including a sturdy binding and a very readable font), artist Jim Kay’s lush paintings visualize Harry’s second adventure in such a fresh way that the result doesn’t compete with the 2002 film adaptation. Instead, it’s a wonderful enhancement. For Harry Potter fans of any age, this Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets really is a treasure.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
An orange ribbon is attached as a trusty bookmark. The inside back cover jacket provides biographical synopses on Rowling and Kay.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 10 Stars
