The indispensable source guide to J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter novels—the perfect gift for Harry Potter fans! What was the model for The Order of the Phoenix? Where do those names come from? What is the real-life legend behind Voldemort’s Dark Mark? Could Snape’s potions actually work? J.K. Rowling’s young heroic wizard, Harry Potter, lives in a world populated by dragons, centaurs, trolls, giants—and a three-headed dog named Fluffy—among other creatures from ancient myths and legends. Discover the astonishing origins of supernatural beasts, clues to hidden meanings in names, and amazing facts about real-life wizards and magic spells. From Alchemists to Unicorns, Basilisks to Veela, this fascinating compendium brings another dimension to Harry’s adventures—from The Sorcerer’s Stone to The Deathly Hallows. This book was not authorized, prepared, approved, licensed or endorsed by J.K. Rowling, Warner Bros., or any other individual or entity associated with the HARRY POTTER books or movie.

Explores the sources and meanings of aspects of the literary world of Harry Potter within myths, legends, and history.

Looks to mythology, folklore, and literature to investigate the sources of ideas for some of the images, characters, and themes found in J.K. Rowling's stories of fledgling wizard Harry Potter.

Why are Tolkien's Elves tall? Which monster attacked Tolkien in real life? What legend inspired the creation of Gollum? In his masterpiece The Lord of the RingsJ. R. R. Tolkien drew upon a lifetime of knowledge to create the fantastical world of Middle-earth, a place that has captured the imagination of millions of readers. The Magical Worlds of The Lord of the Ringstells the stories behind Tolkien's stories. From dwarves and elves to King Arthur and Beowulf, the book explores the ancient myths and legends that inspired Tolkien, as well as the ideas and events that sparked his incredible imagination.

Presents the fantasy world created by author Philip Pullman in His Dark Materials novels, examining the sources and meanings of the philosophy and themes behind the stories, as well as the characters, myths, and plots.

Examines the origins and hidden meanings of the characters and plots within C.S. Lewis's Narnia series.

From the Dursleys as social commentary to a look at Snape's role in less than child-friendly fanfiction . . . from the parallels between Azkaban and Abu Ghraib to the role of religion at Hogwarts . . . from why Dumbledore had to die to why killing Harry never should have been part of Voldemort's plan to begin with . . . Mapping the World of the Sorcerer's Apprentice offers a comprehensive look at the Harry Potter series through the eyes of leading science fiction and fantasy writers and religion, psychology, and science experts. This book has not been authorized by J. K. Rowling, Warner Bros. or anyone associated with the Harry Potter books or films.