The Unofficial Guide to Crafting the World of Harry Potter

September 1, 2016

Almost two decades after the publication of the first Harry Potter book, Pottermania shows no signs of slowing down. Harrington (coauthor, The 101 Coolest Simple Science Experiments) collection of simple craft projects capitalizes on this, with everything from tie-dyed house colors T-shirts to a Slytherin-inspired snake wreath to bath-and-body products inspired by Dementors, pygmy puffs, and butterbeer. Some are a bit of a stretch--writing "cookies" on a glass jar doesn't scream Potter, even if you describe it as a "Honeydukes Cookie Jar." The projects are generally easy to make and use supplies that are readily available, either from craft stores or online. VERDICT The hits outnumber the misses in this slightly uneven collection. Teens are an obvious audience, but remember--that first generation of Potter fanatics is hitting their 30s, and their thirst for 1990s nostalgia is unquenchable.

Copyright 2016 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 1, 2016

Gr 6 Up-What happens when serious crafters combine with devoted Harry Potter fans? Cue this well-organized batch of ideas for the creation of Potter-related items. The book begins with wearables such as tie-dyed T-shirts (in the school colors of Hogwarts, of course), and accessories, and each chapter takes on a different aspect of the series, including characters and related objects. Directions for making a "sorcerer's stone paperweight," "dementor soap," a "lumos/nox light switch," and "nargles for the yard" encourage the use of themed crafts throughout the house, as gifts, or as unique school supplies. While clever and clearly explained, the ideas presented here are not for novices or young children but rather for more mature and experienced crafters. Additionally, specialized material (e.g., sheets of Shrinky Dinks, a glue gun, charcoal capsules) may not be readily available and could become costly. VERDICT Recommended for the sophisticated crafter who doubles as a Harry Potter fan.-Maria B. Salvadore, formerly at District of Columbia Public Library

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.