Just So Stories

….and two of my favourite characters!!

Bloomsbury Publishing

August 2026

ISBN	9781526688675
Imprint	Bloomsbury Children’s Books
RRP	$16.99
Series	Pocket Potters – Little Guides to the HARRY POTTER Stories

Dobby

We all know the mayhem that accompanies Dobby but he really is the most endearing character and such a favourite with so many. Whenever I had HP themed events in the library, decorating socks for Dobby – the free elf!- was a real winner. The format of this series is so good and particularly so to introduce younger readers to the magic but also for any readers to enjoy. I know I love them equally as well as any child. I’m always interested as well to see each illustrator’s take on the character. In this case, Helen Penfold has made Dobby a little more cartoonishly goofy than I would imagine him to be as, after all, as we know house elves are incredibly ancient magical beings and do have some dignity and gravitas – even if in Dobby’s case, that’s not always evident!

Hagrid

And of course, Rubeus Hagrid [RIP Robbie Coltrane, you wonderful man and perfect Hagrid], Harry’s special friend, rescuer, protector, champion and surrogate family. Hagrid’s charms may not be evident to the likes of a Malfoy but for the rest of us, we know this is the gentle giant with the heart of gold and a special soft spot for Harry, along with Ron and Hermione. And we see how soft-hearted and loving he can be, even with his half-brother, Grawp – who is really not everyone’s cup of tea. Ukrainian illustrator, Olia Muza, has captured the essence of this giant of a man delightfully and I revelled in her illustrations along with the facts of course.

Jump into these two new ones or put them on your orders list because your kiddos will thank you for them – just as I thank my ‘dealer’ for this addition to my always growing collection! I think this series is just absolutely cracking! A magical swish and flick 5 🪄🪄🪄🪄🪄rating for these ones for readers from about 8 years upwards.