The Harry Potter Books Got a Magical Makeover for Their 20th Anniversary

J.K. Rowling's beloved Harry Potter series is celebrating a big milestone in the United States this year, so we should all raise a glass of Butterbeer.

Scholastic is doing more than just that, though. The publisher has unveiled 20th anniversary editions of the books illustrated by Brian Selznick to honor the U.S. debut of the first book two decades ago.

(via Warner Bros. Pictures)

While Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone was published in 1998, its U.K. counterpart, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, actually made its debut the year prior, in 1997. As a result, the U.S. anniversary is a year behind.

That means two consecutive years of celebration, and if you ask us, the series deserves every minute of it.

Scholastic has been honoring Harry Potter throughout 2018, and the new editions are part of that campaign. The publishing house shared a video in April announcing the 20th anniversary editions, and the redesigned books finally were released on June 26. The covers feature artwork by acclaimed illustrator Selznick, who is a winner of the prestigious Caldecott Medal.

You can buy any or all of the seven 20th anniversary edition books now through a number of retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Target. Another option is to wait till August and get the collectible boxed set. Either way, cheers to Harry Potter!

 

If you've already read (and loved) the entire series, click HERE to read our suggestions for other books you might like.