With four sequels to Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them coming down the line, we will probably be meeting a lot more magical creatures. Considering this, the book that the movie is loosely based on is about to get an updated edition, featuring all new animals not previously listed.
Pottermore announced today that the book “written” by magizoologist Newt Scamander, studied by Harry Potter at Hogwarts, and first released to Muggles in 2001, will be getting an update this year from actual author J.K. Rowling. This edition will feature a new foreword by Newt himself, six new creatures never seen before in Rowling’s literature, and “line illustrations” from artist Tomislav Tomic. It will also be available as an eBook featuring a different cover, and both versions will be available on March 14th.
This collectible hardback has been revised & updated by J.K. Rowling, bringing the original classic book up to date: https://t.co/r812JIiOWD pic.twitter.com/uPKdxtDghy
— Bloomsbury UK (@BloomsburyBooks) January 5, 2017
This isn’t surprising in any way, considering the success of the movie/launching of the franchise, especially since the film prominently featured some animals that were not included in Newt’s encyclopedia-like text (like swooping evil and the thunderbird), nor does the original version include some of the animals that give their names to the American school of witchcraft and wizardry Ilvermorny (like the wampus, pukwudgie, and horned serpent). The film also featured those unnamed giant bugs shown in Newt’s briefcase, so they might be included too. All that said, we do have confirmation that one thing from the film will not be included, and for a very good reason:
An Obscurus isn't a creature… https://t.co/O3bsc4ObZ5
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) January 5, 2017
Before you get cynical about this being a mere “money grab” or anything like that, know that the proceeds from the book will be donated to Comic Relief and Rowling’s own charity Lumos, both of which “aim to help some of the world’s most vulnerable children and young people have a better life.” So when you buy your updated version (which I surely will, considering I’m the lunatic that actually ranked every single magical creature in the original book), know some needy kids will benefit from your purchase.
Which magical animals do you hope get included in this update? Cast your ideas in our comments section below.
Featured Image: Warner Bros.
