Book review
Written by David Langford
Gollancz hardback
Release date 9 November 2006

Wondering what final obstacles Harry Potter is going to have to overcome in the seventh book of the series? David Langford explores some of the different options open in this fun, and completely unofficial, speculative guide.

This entertaining companion that poses (and attempts to answer) the questions that Potter fans worldwide have been asking has something for everyone – from diehard Harry aficionados, to casual readers who just enjoy a good adventure.

As well as providing a potted history of the entire saga – nicely recapping the previous six novels – Langford’s book is also thought-provoking. The importance of names and places is investigated thoroughly; events that seemed previously inconsequential are analysed a little more closely; and there are some witty and interesting interpretations of some of the more ambiguous events from the last novel.

Langford has used his extensive knowledge of the Potter universe to create an extremely enjoyable read and, while it makes no pretence of offering any definitive answers, if you weren’t excited about the seventh novel before, you will be after reading this! Natalie Clubb

VERDICT: 8/10
A wide-ranging and entertaining read.