With the promise of captivating performances from incredible actors, original music, real-world sound capture and so much more, the anticipation is building for the release of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. While we (im)patiently wait for 4th November, the reveal of the new covers couldn’t have come at a better time.
A treat for new listeners and existing fans alike, it’s easy to get lost in the richly-detailed art that echoes an important theme from the Harry Potter stories – things are not always as they seem.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
One thing stood out to us as we pored over every detail of the new audiobook covers… they all offered us a ‘moment of reflection’. While each told their own story, that was the common thread that connected them.
This was clear on the cover of Philosopher’s Stone – well, it would be hard to miss a giant castle… they aren’t exactly subtle. Nevertheless, at first we thought this cover was a fantastic recreation of the moment that Hogwarts was revealed. Yet, as we kept looking, we saw little details which offered a brand-new perspective.
Did you notice that the reactions of Harry and his friends are at the forefront of this design rather than the school? We thought that was rather brilliant. The wonder in Harry’s face reiterates how life-changing this moment was for him – the realisation that there was so much more than Privet Drive and the narrow-minded Dursleys. This was the start of his real journey.
Having Hogwarts appear upside down was a nice touch too – perhaps another nod to how everything Harry knew had been flipped on its head? Or how he spent his childhood not knowing that another world was right at his fingertips? Or maybe it’s physics…
Also, five points to whoever spots Trevor the fastest.
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
There are so many fun elements to this cover we don’t know where to begin… so let’s talk about the Golden Snitch. Obviously, this magical object being both metal and shiny makes it a perfect mirror – very on theme. Yet, there is more to this winged ball than meets the eye. Did you know that Snitches are enchanted to only recognise the first human to ever touch them? Something to bear in mind…
Anyway, back to the cover and you’ll spot Draco Malfoy hot on Harry’s tail. While it could be that Malfoy is there because he happened to be selected as Slytherin Seeker that year – we think there’s slightly more to the story.
Chamber of Secrets is all about Slytherin and their… secrets. Malfoy is the perfect example of the house’s worst traits. He also happens to have an interesting connection to the rogue Bludger from this match. There was even talk about him being a certain heir. Overall? An inspired Easter egg.
Incidentally, we winced seeing Harry reach for the Snitch – we know what happens next. Totally unrelated but regrowing all your arm bones seems about as fun as being locked in a room with an angry Hungarian Horntail.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
If we’re talking about a book where everything you thought you knew was suddenly upended, we’re talking about Prisoner of Azkaban… and this design too.
At first glance, you can’t help but appreciate the nod to the original Bloomsbury book cover – with the purple colour palette and iconic scene where Harry and Hermione rescued Sirius while flying Buckbeak.
Yet, look again and you’ll see a new perspective. This time we see Harry and Hermione from Sirius’ point of view – as a reflection. Could that possibly be hope we see on his face? With his character having been so thoroughly misunderstood, could this symbolise the moment he knew that people were finally starting to see his true self? Food for thought…
The eagle-eyed among you will have spotted the full moon in the background and we guarantee that it wasn’t just added for aesthetic reasons. Remember Lupin’s furry little problem? Yep, there’s always more to the story.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
The heart-racing moment in Goblet of Fire, where Harry and Cedric hurtle towards a fate they never saw coming, is portrayed here perfectly. Accompanied by a Blast-ended Skrewt and foliage from the final task, the design cleverly alludes to both the Triwizard Tournament and to the idea of danger being everywhere.
And we mean everywhere. Have another look at the Triwizard Cup… can you see it? Deep within the trophy is a glimpse of something that will change everything – a headstone inscribed with a name. It might be a mirror image (genius move from the designers), but we can see that it says Tom Riddle. For superfans, we imagine the emotions it evokes within you are not confined to the small range of teaspoon. New listeners? We just hope that you’re prepared.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Okay, this cover proves that it is all about the details! You can literally see every scratch and smudge on Harry’s face, the determination in his expression and the reason for all of that reflected in his glasses – the epic battle between Voldemort and Dumbledore at the Ministry.
Colours play a critical role here – the red of the Gryffindor Headmaster and his phoenix, Fawkes, clashing against the green of the Slytherin Dark Lord and his snake, Nagini, as two enormous powers collide. Plus, the split of colours illuminating Harry’s face makes us think of the connections he shared to both wizards (whether willingly or not) and the struggle he had with his own identity.
When you remember how many people refused to believe Harry in the fifth story, you realise the reflection being in Harry’s glasses is rather poignant. For months, he had been trying to get people to see the truth, and this moment was a turning point. Finally, it seemed as though the wizarding world was willing to open its eyes.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Consider us emotionally ruined by this image of Dumbledore at the top of the Astronomy Tower. The cover hits you with a sense of sinister foreboding. Obviously, you’re confronted by the image of the Dark Mark – which can never mean anything good and would fill anyone with dread – but there are also subtle horrors hidden in the details too.
Take the green tones that weave their way through the image as they steadily encroach on Hogwarts. Could this be symbolic of the insidious spread of Voldemort’s hatred as he steadily gains power?
Then there is the reflection of Malfoy where he’s almost hidden in the shadows – breaking our heart in various ways. It not only reminds us of the secret he had to carry but also that he had to do it alone. He might be a prejudiced bully, but he was also a teenager who was asked to do the impossible – culminating in this fateful night. Although, without giving too much away, even this moment was not what it seemed.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Who can forget when Professor McGonagall summoned the Hogwarts suits of armour to do their duty and protect the school? Not us. The choice to include it on the cover of the final Harry Potter story? Powerful.
Honestly, it gave us goosebumps seeing Harry and his Head of House standing together against the Dark forces that threaten their world. Once again, every detail has been carefully considered. Not only are the pair dressed in matching Gryffindor colours, but McGonagall is wearing her tartan robe. Iconic.
In this final battle of good and evil, the choice to have this pair take centre stage feels important. The stakes have never been higher, but this image isn’t cold or gloomy, it’s full of warmth and light. Yes, the Death Eaters are lurking, but did you see where? Their reflection might be ominous but it’s on the shield and weapon of a Hogwarts suit of armour. A symbol of strength and protection. Ultimately? This cover, like the stories, is full of hope.
This new groundbreaking audiobook series, a collaboration between Pottermore Publishing and Audible, promises to bring the stories to life “as never heard before”, with the first audiobook, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone slated for release 4th November.
You can pre-order the entire series through Audible right here.
Plus, keep an eye out on more exciting news like the latest casting announcements here on HarryPotter.com.
