Shadowhawk takes a look at the newly released cover for the 15th Anniversary edition of the first Harry Potter novel.

“If I walked into a bookstore today and saw that cover, I would buy the book immediately and read it then and there.” ~Shadowhawk

British author J. K. Rowling caused quite a stir in the industry when her first Harry Potter novel was released all those years ago, back in 1997 (1998 for US markets). Since then, the franchise has become a phenomenon. There have been movies, video games, clothing, toys, background books, and an endless array of other merchandise. Rowling became a household name and even after 16/15 years, the franchise is still strong.

With the movie end of the franchise having finally come to a close, and with the multi-media experience website Pottermore going full-steam, Scholastic Corp feels that it’s a good time to reinvigorate the franchise. Especially good timing since the 15th US anniversary is coming up. Noted graphic novel artist Kazu Kibiushi is doing the cover art for the upcoming trade paperback editions, and his work is just stunning.

Here it is:

Harry Potter has no idea how famous he is. That’s because he’s being raised by his miserable aunt and uncle who are terrified Harry will learn that he’s really a wizard, just as his parents were. But everything changes when Harry is summoned to attend an infamous school for wizards, and he begins to discover some clues about his illustrious birthright. From the surprising way he is greeted by a lovable giant, to the unique curriculum and colorful faculty at his unusual school, Harry finds himself drawn deep inside a mystical world he never knew existed and closer to his own noble destiny.

Let me just say that I adore this cover. It is miles better than the original cover by Mary GrandPré’s, which will still be printed for the hardcover editions of the novel. Kibiushi’s cover evokes every wondorous and magical feel of the novel and the scene that he has chosen, Diagon Alley with Hagrid taking Harry shopping for his Hogwarts school supplies, is just amazing. It’s beautifully drawn and coloured. I just might buy the new edition!

What do you think of the cover?