Since the release of the illustrated edition of “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” in 2015, the series has become a worldwide sensation. Jim Kay’s artwork masterfully embodies the enchanting world of Harry Potter, featuring striking scenes and intricately designed characters that vividly bring the narrative to life. This is why these editions have garnered such admiration from both fans and newcomers alike.
After a decade of working on the illustrated series, Jim Kay made the tough choice to step back to prioritize his mental wellness. This led to a search for a worthy successor to continue the legacy of the illustrations. Bloomsbury recently announced that they have appointed multi-award-winning artist Levi Pinfold to illustrate the last two books in the series.
Keen-eyed fans might recognize Pinfold from his previous contributions to the Harry Potter Hogwarts House Editions and the Wizarding World Almanac, where his impressive artistic skills captivated audiences around the globe.
Levi expressed his excitement about joining this project, sharing his vision for the upcoming illustrated editions. He stated, “Receiving the key to Hogwarts and being invited to explore feels enchanting. These books are like cherished friends, and I am grateful for the chance to share my perspective. In terms of visuals, ‘Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince’ will evoke the beauty of fireworks lighting up the coldest and darkest nights—a sense of wonder that I hope to inspire in my readers, my younger self, and my children.”
The illustrated edition of “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” is set to be released in October 2026, coinciding with its US Scholastic edition, allowing fans to enjoy Pinfold’s artwork in all its glory. For now, let’s take a glimpse at what the latest additions to the series will offer.
