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Dynamic new cover art for Harry Potter ebooks and audiobooks

May 31, 2022.
New Harry Potter digital covers by Studio La Plage
New Harry Potter digital covers by Studio La Plage

This summer, the Harry Potter series will be getting a radical new look for those enjoying the stories on digital devices.  Twenty-five years after J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was first published in print in the UK, the audiobooks and eBooks continue to ride high in the bestseller lists, with new generations discovering them every year. Now Pottermore Publishing, the Wizarding WorldTM’s global digital publisher, has brought its cover art bang up to date with a dynamic new suite of cover designs for the seven Harry Potter eBooks and audiobooks. 

Bringing both iconic and lesser-known scenes from these beloved stories alive in thrilling detail for fans and new readers alike, the new cover art invites the next generation of readers and listeners to jump into the action and discover the Harry Potter books on their phones, tablets, e-readers and other devices.

The designs bring to vivid colour scenes from the books, some never before depicted on the covers, such as the flying Ford Anglia crashing into the Whomping Willow, Hermione facing down the Death Eaters, and the depths of the Great Lake, as well as giving new perspectives on iconic moments such as Harry’s first Quidditch match, his first encounter with the Knight Bus, Dumbledore drinking Voldemort’s potion, and Voldemort facing Harry in the final Battle of Hogwarts.  By placing the much-loved characters centre stage, the covers show in brilliant detail how Harry and his friends progress and grow up through each year of Hogwarts, as they encounter challenges and adventures together. Incorporated into the designs are a multitude of characters and beautifully realised, often subtle canonical details to delight and intrigue readers and listeners, whether they are diehard fans or new to the stories.

Skillfully crafted by creative design experts Studio La Plage, the covers were made with today’s generation in mind. The aim was to give a fresh but instantly recognisable treatment to the stories – whether they are being read on digital devices at home or on the move.

Mike Richards, Pottermore Publishing Head of Marketing, said:

‘We know that the Harry Potter books continue to hold a place in the hearts of millions all over the world and, even now, regularly occupy places across audiobook and eBook bestseller lists. It’s been so exciting to create new, character-led imagery that matches the enthusiasm of the next generation of readers and listeners and ignites their imaginations afresh.’

Jack Bedford, Associate Creative Director at Studio La Plage, said:

‘It was both a challenge and an honour to take the legacy of the Harry Potter covers and create a new visual approach fit for the digital age. Most importantly, we wanted to retain the essence of what we know and love most about the Wizarding World. We set out to create exciting artwork that had our digital readers and listeners at heart. The aesthetic had to inspire a new audience whilst keeping its existing fanbase captivated.  We achieved this by layering in hidden details from the stories, bringing the rich, magical moments of the Wizarding World world to life.  Our new covers celebrate the moment before the action. They invite readers to experience moments of fantasy, emotion, bravery and friendship – ultimately asking the question: ‘What happens next?’ We can’t wait to share them.’

The seven cover designs will be adopted in all territories across the digital Harry Potter eBooks and audiobooks from 31st May, almost 25 years on from the first book’s publication in June 1997.. They’ll be just in time to join in with the celebrations of the 25th anniversary of the first book’s publication in the UK in June, and in time to join in with an exciting new readers’ campaign, ‘Starting Harry Potter’, which will be launched on WizardingWorld.com in July.

 

New covers for the Harry Potter audiobooks by Studio La Plage
New covers for the Harry Potter audiobooks by Studio La Plage