Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through my links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
If you want only one Harry Potter set, get this one.
If you want the simplest answer that creates the fewest regrets, buy one of the standard unabridged and complete 1-7 box sets.
 |
| Our Harry Potter bookshelf at home with a hardcover, paperback set, Hogwarts Library and the Marauder's Map! |
For most families, it’s the format most likely to get fully read, because it’s complete, portable, and low-fuss.
But also read on for the answer to which Harry Potter edition is the best for those who want an even more immersive experience or a follow up edition.
Plus, as a family we do have the qualifications to answer this, just look at our Harry Potter home bookshelf in the photograph above (and several pics below)!
Plus, as a family we do have the qualifications to answer this, just look at our Harry Potter home bookshelf in the photograph above (and several pics below)!
A standard set is the best option if your goal is to ensure the Harry Potter books are read cover to cover. Because the regular, standard (non-illustrated) sets are complete right now with all seven volumes immediately available.
That's not the case with the illustrated sets all of which are partially published so far - as of 2026.
Furthermore, the standard set is also easier to handle, and it does not turn reading into a careful, slow, museum-like experience.
Quick pick: if you want the full story in one purchase, get the standard 1-7 box set. If you want the most ‘wow per page’, MinaLima is the most magical - just not complete yet.
Furthermore, the standard set is also easier to handle, and it does not turn reading into a careful, slow, museum-like experience.
Quick pick: if you want the full story in one purchase, get the standard 1-7 box set. If you want the most ‘wow per page’, MinaLima is the most magical - just not complete yet.
Quick comparison: which Harry Potter set should you buy?
| Set | Best for | Why people love it | Watch-outs | My shorthand verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard 1-7 box set | Families, first-time readers, gifts | Complete story in one purchase; easiest no regrets gift | Quality varies by print/box | Best default buy if you want the whole series now |
| MinaLima Editions | Collectors; show-and-tell read-alouds | Most wow per page; interactive design moments | Not a complete 1 to 7 set; pricier per book | Best magic factor: just plan around incompleteness |
| Jim Kay Illustrated Editions | Illustration lovers; classic illustrated feel | Immersive art; strong mood and character visuals | Currently partial/transitioning; set-building can be messy | Best traditional illustrated version if you’re OK with gaps |
| House editions / collector alternatives | Big gifts; display shelves; superfans | Great design objects; fun “choose your house” angle | Often heavier; less practical for daily reading | Best statement gift when looks matter most |
Now let me say this clearly before the collectors come after me.
The MinaLima interactive editions and the Jim Kay illustrated editions are fantastic. They just do a different job.
If you buy them for the wrong job (reading all 7 Harry Potter books aloud or getting your kids to read the whole set on their own), you will feel disappointed, even if the illustrated books are objectively gorgeous.
So let’s sort out the jobs first, then the choice gets easy.
Quick pick: choose your lane in 15 seconds
If you only read one part, read this. I’m trying to save you from “wrong job, wrong edition” regret.
- Most families: Buy the standard complete 1–7 box set, because it is the best “finish the whole story” option.
- Most magical version of Harry Potter (for Books 1–4 as of early 2026): get the MinaLima Interactive Editions (books 1-3) and Mountford (book 4) - but treat them as special-handling books.
- Best illustrated read-aloud experience without constant “pause and play”: Buy Jim Kay for books 1-5 (with the illustrated series continuing with artist Levi Pinfold later).
Jump to what you need
- MinaLima / Interactive & Illustrated Editions (Books 1–3, then Mountford)
- Jim Kay Illustrated Editions (and Levi Pinfold continuation)
- Hogwarts House Editions (don’t mix these up)
- Standard 1–7 Box Set (the “finish the story” default)
- US vs UK: Philosopher vs Sorcerer
- What we have at home
- The one question that decides everything
- Read-aloud families vs independent readers
- Illustration density (what it changes)
- Shelf presence and gift impact
- The clear recommendation
- FAQ (buyer worries)
- Finished books 1–7? What to read next
Now, here’s the twist.
I am not discounting the two amazing illustrated “premium lanes” of Harry Potter. They are fantastic and absolutely worth indulging in. However, research before splurging. Read on to find out what I mean.
When people say “illustrated Harry Potter,” they often mean different things, and that confusion causes half the buyer regret.
And let's get this clear from the outset. Neither the MinaLima nor the Jim Kay illustrated edition are the definitive illustrated edition.
 |
| MinaLima illustrated interior spread from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone |
They shine when you buy them for the right reason.
Before I tell you the choice I made when we obtained our own Harry Potter collections, let's just take a moment to consider what our options are today in 2026.
Essentially: we have a choice between the interactive illustrated editions, the illustrated editions, and the non-illustrated standard editions.
Phew... that was a mouthful.
But wait. Things are never as simple complicated as they seem to be.
Stop blabbing Read Aloud Dad and tell us what is the state of the playing field right now in 2026?
1) MinaLima interactive & illustrated editions: who they’re for?
These editions include the MinaLima Interactive Illustrated (Harry Potter books 1–3) + Karl James Mountford Interactive Illustrated (Harry Potter book 4 and onwards).
Here we are dealing with literally (!) fantastic, deluxe, design-forward editions with full-color illustration density and paper-engineered interactive elements.
However, an important point here is that MinaLima has released only three interactive illustrated Harry Potter books:
 |
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Book 1)
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Book 2)
- Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Book 3)
The MinaLima design studio announced in August 2024 that they were not commissioned to continue with the fourth book, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
So, is it all over for the interactive illustrated editions of Harry Potter?
Should we say our goodbyes? And just keep these three on our shelf?
Should we say our goodbyes? And just keep these three on our shelf?
Well, the good news is that Scholastic said in August 2024 it would continue to publish illustrated, interactive editions of the Harry Potter books.
And they kept their word!
The publisher passed the interactive illustrated baton - from MinaLima - to Karl James Mountford as the designer and artist for the interactive and illustrated Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Book 4) that was published in late 2025. It is already available!
The publisher passed the interactive illustrated baton - from MinaLima - to Karl James Mountford as the designer and artist for the interactive and illustrated Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Book 4) that was published in late 2025. It is already available!
The new book 4 interactive and illustrated edition features 608 pages with full-color illustrations and eight interactive, paper-engineered, pop-up elements, including the Triwizard maze and the Dark Mark.
The interactive paper-engineered elements were designed by Jess Tice-Gilbert.
The interactive paper-engineered elements were designed by Jess Tice-Gilbert.
2) Jim Kay illustrated editions: who they’re for
OK, so what are these illustrated editions, you ask? In this case we talking about the Jim Kay Illustrated Editions (Harry Potter books 1–5) and a continuation of the illustrated editions with the Levi Pinfold Illustrated Editions (Harry Potter books 6 and 7).
These are oversized illustrated hardbacks that feel closer to a traditional “illustrated classic.”
 |
| Jim Kay illustrated Bloomsbury Harry Potter hardcovers |
Bloomsbury engaged Jim Kay to illustrate the first five books before he stepped down, and the publisher later announced Levi Pinfold for the final two illustrated editions.
Kay decided to stop his participation in the project after illustrating Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.
The reasons for his departure included the demanding nature of the work and his personal concern about his wellbeing due to the stress and workload.
Levi is not a newcomer to the Harry Potter world as he already contributed illustrations to the much-loved Harry Potter Hogwarts House Editions (which I’ll explain next, because people mix them up with “illustrated editions” all the time) and The Harry Potter Wizarding Almanac.
The first Levi Pinfold illustrated Harry Potter book — Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince — is currently due for publication in October 2026.
 |
| Levi Pinfold artwork from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince |
Bloomsbury has also shared a sneak peek of Harry Potter peering into the swirling mists of Professor Dumbledore’s Pensieve.
As we don't have the Pinfold illustrated books around yet, this image serves as an early preview of Levi’s spine-tingling artwork.
And, it does look entrancing!
As we don't have the Pinfold illustrated books around yet, this image serves as an early preview of Levi’s spine-tingling artwork.
And, it does look entrancing!
A quick detour: Hogwarts House Editions and book sets (easy to mix up)
If you’ve been shopping around, you’ve probably seen “House Editions” (recognizable by their single color motif) and thought: Oh! Are these the illustrated books?
Nope. The Hogwarts House Editions are their own lane. Think of them as house-themed collector/readers.
So, they are the same full novels, but wrapped in house pride, plus extra house-flavored bonus pages.
 |
| Harry Potter Gryffindor House Edition hardcovers (Bloomsbury) |
These are the editions where you pick Gryffindor / Slytherin / Ravenclaw / Hufflepuff and the book shows up dressed for the occasion.
These book sets look amazing and they are simply perfect gifts if your kids starts identifying with one of the Hogwarts houses.
These books, can reinforce the sense of belonging to the one of the Hogwarts Houses. Kids love that! My own kids had their favorite Hogwarts house and they even had scarves that match. So, these House editions are no brainers for Potterheads.
These books, can reinforce the sense of belonging to the one of the Hogwarts Houses. Kids love that! My own kids had their favorite Hogwarts house and they even had scarves that match. So, these House editions are no brainers for Potterheads.
I know it's tough to imagine if you haven't seen them before, but here is what I am talking about:
1. The Gryffindor House edition - in a red and black design
2. The Slytherin House edition - in a green and black motif
3. The Ravenclaw House edition - in a blue and black presentation
4. The Hufflepuff House edition - with its distinctive yellow and black design
Fast “don’t-buy-the-wrong-thing” checklist
| Edition | What it really is | What you’re paying for |
|---|---|---|
| House Editions | The standard novels dressed in house identity | Covers, design details, and house bonus pages |
| Jim Kay (Illustrated Editions) | Big illustrated hardbacks with immersive art throughout | Major illustration program (feels like an illustrated classic) |
| MinaLima / Interactive & Illustrated | Full-color design + interactive paper engineering | Pop-ups / inserts / handling experience |
| Standard Box Set | Plain & practical “reading tool” versions | Convenience, portability, and finish-the-series momentum |
Practical caution: some House Edition bonus pages can wander into later-series facts. If this is for a first-time reader and you want to avoid accidental spoilers, treat House Editions as a “later” set or a collector set.
Where do House Editions fit in my recommendation?
If your kid loves the idea of “being” a Hogwarts house, House Editions can be a very fun identity-gift. Also they are a variant of the standard 1 to 7 box set and can win on pure daily-life usefulness - just like the standard edition.
Speaking of which, here we come to the mainstream edition, read on...
Speaking of which, here we come to the mainstream edition, read on...
3) Standard 1–7 box set (mainstream, not illustrated): who it's for?
Standard is such a boring word.
Imagine referring to the Harry Potter books as we know them as… standard.
More like Gold Standard, puhleeeease!
 |
| Our own Scholastic paperback Harry Potter box set spine view shows how well read they are! |
However, even if you go for standard Harry Potter - you can often see a Special Edition of the standard Harry Potter books raising its head - just like those cute House editions we mentioned a moment ago.
Yes, so basically this is the normal reading edition: full text, practical handling, and you can choose your preferred format (paperback, hardcover, house edition, etc.).
Also, standard editions - more often than not - also feature lavish jacket artwork and chapter opening illustrations to set the mood for readers.
If you are a paperback fan, you are in luck - there is choice.
Do you want the standard Harry Potter Paperback 1-7 slipcase or the Brian Selznick designed Harry Potter Paperback 1-7 special edition slipcase?
I am partial towards Brian Selznick! All of Selznick's own (non-Harry Potter) books are simply fabulous (remember The Invention of Hugo Cabret or Wonderstruck?) - we have many of them in our home library. And if you already have some, this will be a nice addition to your Selznick collection.
Also, standard editions - more often than not - also feature lavish jacket artwork and chapter opening illustrations to set the mood for readers.
If you are a paperback fan, you are in luck - there is choice.
Do you want the standard Harry Potter Paperback 1-7 slipcase or the Brian Selznick designed Harry Potter Paperback 1-7 special edition slipcase?
I am partial towards Brian Selznick! All of Selznick's own (non-Harry Potter) books are simply fabulous (remember The Invention of Hugo Cabret or Wonderstruck?) - we have many of them in our home library. And if you already have some, this will be a nice addition to your Selznick collection.
Yet, my daughter says that she doesn't like Harry Potter books with black and white covers, color is key, she just told me. So there is that. What a parent likes, might not work for kids! (keep that in mind, my friends!).
The Selznick designed Harry Potter Paperback 1-7 slipcase was published in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the publication of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.
The Selznick designed Harry Potter Paperback 1-7 slipcase was published in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the publication of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.
 |
| Our own Bloomsbury hardcover Harry Potter box set we always removed the book jackets while reading! |
On the other hand, if you are a fan of hardcovers, well - you also have to make a pick. You can get the the standard Harry Potter Hardcover 1-7 slipcase or one of the previously mentioned Harry Potter Hardback House Editions.
If you have ever read one “special edition” and then watched your child sprint ahead into the next book… you already understand why the standard set remains the default winner for many families.
Paperback or standard hardcover, depending on which one you choose. It is not trying to be a deluxe art object. It is trying to be read.
My daughter is crazy about reading hardcovers, my son doesn't care as much. He just cares about reading a good book, regardless of the format.
US vs UK (Philosopher vs Sorcerer): does it matter?
And here I will digress a bit to tell you the story about Harry Potter in our home and what's the difference between a philosopher and a sorcerer.
BTW, you may notice me dropping the names of the Harry Potter publishers Scholastic and Bloomsbury and you may ask yourself, which publisher should we go for Read Aloud Dad?
Don't we all know it is Scholastic?
Well, actually, Bloomsbury is the original publisher of the Harry Potter series in the UK, while Scholastic holds the US publication rights.
Before you utter "Who cares?", let me just add some context.
Actually they produce distinct editions featuring different covers, spelling, and altered text tailored for their respective audiences.
Bloomsbury uses British spelling and terms (even the name of the first book differes: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, “jumpers”).
In the US, Scholastic uses US spelling and terms (first book: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, “sweaters”, etc).
 |
| Another glance at our Harry Potter bookshelf Bloomsbury hardcover Harry Potter box set |
To see the full list of changes, just consult this compilation of UK/US edition changes that were made in each book.
Interesting tidbit: JK Rowling apparently regrets yielding to pressure to change the title of her first book for the US market.
Rowling said the change was suggested by Arthur Levine of Scholastic Books as “philosopher” was apparently seen as off-putting to American kids (according to the suits at Scholastic).
There are some interesting differences.
In US editions, the British term “Sellotape” (and the magical pun “Spellotape”) is replaced with Scotch tape or tape.
The Spellotape works because Sellotape is a UK brand name for clear adhesive tape. Spellotape is another of those magic tricks JK Rowling prepared for her little readers. Ron Weasley uses Spellotape to repair his wand in Chamber of Secrets.
However, it does not matter which edition you use. Even when reading a different edition, questions pop up and that means it is a learning moment for kids.
What do we have at home?
The Harry Potter book set is a super-hero assistant for every family. A literacy aid, a babysitter and a travel guide in one. It is one of the strongest allies you will have in your literacy journey with your children.
Do not waver. Do not hesitate. Get a full set, because once a kid starts reading it... there is no stopping that train.
The first book may be finished at midnight (even later from my experience!), the second will be started at a minute past midnight.
The third book will be completed just before lunch, the fourth one will be started right after gobbling down lunch…
The 7-book Harry Potter box set contains approximately 4,167 pages in total - depending on the edition.
Can you imagine the power that it wields?
 |
| Our copy of the The Marauder’s Map of Hogwarts (folded) |
But back to our family, let me tell you the unique situation we had at home.
As I have twins… I knew that one day we would have to deal with the issue of concurrency.
Concurrency, you ask?
Yes, it's the fact of two or more events or circumstances happening or existing at the same time.
Simply put, I knew that one day my baby boy and baby girl would want to read the Harry Potter books at the same time, so what did I decide?
They would both grab Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and they would start fighting. Or one of them would start reading and the other one would start complaining.
Even before my kids were able to read chapter books I took the plunge.
So, I got us a Bloomsbury hardcover set as our main set at home, well it just looked perfect to me.
And then I splurged out on a Scholastic paperback set as a fallback solution that would allow parallel reading by two kids.
Remember: if you have two kids, reading Harry Potter is like travelling to Japan or Peru together. They learn the customs, the lingo, the mannerisms. Nothing reinforces an experience as much as sharing it with someone.
 |
| Our own fully unfolded Marauder’s Map of Hogwarts |
I knew that the only better thing than one Potterhead reader was two Potterhead readers.
So, our family has both sets. And I am happy to report that they were both read in parallel and enjoyed multiple times as you can see by the photographs (the spines of the paperbacks show it most clearly).
We later, as all Potterheads do, expanded our contact surface with the Potter world.
We even got our hands on a real life Marauders Map!
And then we also got the four follow-up books, but more on them later.
And then we also got the four follow-up books, but more on them later.
The one question that decides everything
Are you buying a reading tool or a keepsake object?
A reading tool needs to survive backpacks, couch reading, bedtime slumps, and fast page-turning.
A keepsake object needs to feel special, look special, and stay special.
If you buy a keepsake object for a kid who reads like a tornado, you will spend the next year silently trying to protect the book from the child. That is not fun.
And my kids know it. Some time ago, I bought Robert Sabuda's pop-out book edition of Alice in Wonderland and then I kept trying to protect it when they were too young. It is exhausting for everyone.
Then again, sometimes my favorite illustrated read aloud version is not available. Then one can go for the interactive illustrated edition. For example, when I hunted for the best illustrated Peter Pan, I got the Scott Gustafson edition... but as the availability of that book changed I modified my recommendation to the MinaLima version as it was the best available reading experience for a family read-aloud.
Although I did choose the MinaLima Peter Pan in that case, it was a different story when it came to picking the best illustrated edition of The Secret Garden. In that case the MinaLima version lost out.
Read-aloud families vs independent readers
Some parents may just say “my kid is 8” as if that answers everything. It doesn’t.
The better question is: are these books going to be read aloud or read independently?
For read-aloud families, illustrations can help in two ways. They can keep attention anchored, and they can create natural pauses for discussion.
But if the book creates too many pauses, it can also wreck the bedtime rhythm.
You know the difference between “one more chapter” and “we are still unfolding the same page.”
 |
| Another look at the complete Harry Potter Hogwarts House Editions, all four houses |
This is where MinaLima and Jim Kay feel very different in the hand.
With MinaLima, the interactive elements invite hands-on exploration. In reader discussions, people consistently describe them as beautiful and fun, but also the kind of book that makes you stop, flip back, and handle the paper features carefully.
With Jim Kay, the illustrations tend to behave like a companion to the text rather than a separate activity.
It still slows you down compared to a plain reading edition, but it usually does not turn the book into a “toy-like” experience.
The trade-off is size and weight, which matters more than people think. A kid who wants to read in bed alone has a different relationship with a regular paperback or hardcover set than with an oversized illustrated hardback.
That is why the standard set keeps winning for so many families. It supports the reading habit effortlessly, anytime and anywhere.
And when it comes to reading 4,000+ pages of Harry Potter, you will find out that anytime and anywhere matter more than you think.
Anytime and anywhere mean literally that. Morning and night, meal time and commute journey, summer beach and doctor's office, school recess and winter holiday…
You will not be able to predict where and when… because it’s going to be everywhere and all the time. The Harry Potter tales do not let the reader escape their clutches!
Illustration density and what it does to the story
MinaLima is not just “pictures.” It is a full design world. The pages often feel like curated artifacts from inside the story.
That is why collectors love it, and why some parents might find it a slower or more delicate ... hands-on read aloud.
On the other hand, Jim Kay illustrations aim for atmosphere and interpretation. The illustrations are immersive and emotional. The art is amazing. Yet, my concern - for young readers and for read aloud sessions - is related to the sheer bulk and the practical reading ergonomics.
But that may be an unfair data point. I went back to compare the weight of different editions of the shortest of the 7 Harry Potter books: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.
But that may be an unfair data point. I went back to compare the weight of different editions of the shortest of the 7 Harry Potter books: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.
This is what I found in terms of the book size and weight for the shortest and lightest of the seven books:
Book 1 in the hand: size & weight (standard vs House edition vs MinaLima vs Jim Kay)
If you’re reading in bed, the story is only half the equation. The other half is: can a kid comfortably hold the book for 20-40 minutes?
| Edition | Publisher | Format | ISBN | Trim size (in / cm) | Weight (lb / g) | Pages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Standard book Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone |
Scholastic | Paperback | 978-1338878929 | 5.25 x 0.75 x 7.75 inches (13.3 x 1.9 x 19.7 cm) | 7.2 ounces (204 g) | 320 |
|
Standard book Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone |
Scholastic | Hardcover | 978-0590353403 | 6.1 x 1.3 x 9.1 inches (15.5 x 3.3 x 23.1 cm) | 1.6 pounds (726 g) | 320 |
|
House edition (Gryffindor) Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone |
Bloomsbury | Paperback (House edition) | 978-1408883730 | 5.04 x 0.87 x 7.8 inches (12.8 x 2.2 x 19.8 cm) | 10.7 ounces (303 g) | 368 |
| House edition (Gryffindor) Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone |
Bloomsbury | Hardcover | 978-1408883747 | 8.2 x 1.1 x 5.5 inches (20.8 x 2.8 x 14.0 cm) | 13.8 ounces (391 g) | 350 |
|
Interactive Illustrated (MinaLima) Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone |
Scholastic | Hardcover | 978-1338596700 | 6.3 x 1.8 x 9.3 inches (16.0 x 4.6 x 23.6 cm) | 2.4 pounds (1.09 kg) | 368 |
|
Illustrated Edition (Jim Kay) Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone |
Scholastic | Hardcover (oversized) |
978-0545790352 |
9.1 x 1.1 x 10.5 inches (23.1 x 2.8 x 26.7 cm) |
2.3 pounds (1.05 kg) | 256 |
Note: weights can vary by printing and paper stock
However, don't be fooled by the stats for the first Harry Potter book. This is the shortest one, hence also the easiest one for small hands to hold.
We have to keep in mind who is our audience.
Our book readers are kids and they want to be with the book literally everywhere.
So, I thought - wait a moment, what if I looked at the weight and size of Book 5 in all formats as Book 5 is the largest and most expansive of the seven.
Alas, we still don't have a Book 5 (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix) for the interactive illustrated versions, so I had to settle for a comparison among the next-to-largest Harry Potter books - or Book 4 (Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire).
These are the sizes of Book 4, with Book 5 certainly a bit heavier because of the greater number of pages.
Book 4 in the hand: size & weight (standard vs House edition vs interactive vs illustrated)
Book 4 is where gorgeous can certainly turn into chunky. Can your kid drag it around and read in unexpected places? Or will the book's size block his/her reading progress?
| Edition | Publisher | Format | ISBN | Trim size (in / cm) | Weight (lb / g) | Pages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Standard book Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire |
Scholastic | Paperback | 978-1338878950 | 5.2 x 1.8 x 7.5 inches (13.2 x 4.6 x 19.1 cm) | 2.3 pounds (1.1 kg) | 752 |
|
Standard book Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire |
Scholastic | Hardcover | 978-0439139595 | 6.3 x 2.3 x 9.5 inches (16.0 x 5.8 x 24.1 cm) | 2.6 pounds (1.2 kg) | 752 |
| House edition (Gryffindor) Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire |
Bloomsbury | Paperback | 978-1526610287 | 7.8 x 1.5 x 5.1 inches (19.7 x 3.9 x 13.0 cm) | 1.1 pounds (512 g) | 640 |
| House edition (Gryffindor) Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire |
Bloomsbury | Hardcover | 978-1526610270 | 8.1 x 1.8 x 5.6 inches (20.5 x 4.5 x 14.3 cm) | 1.3 pounds (603 g) | 640 |
|
Interactive Illustrated (Mountford) Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire |
Scholastic | Hardcover | 978-1546154419 | 6.3 x 2.2 x 9.2 inches (16.0 x 5.6 x 23.4 cm) | 3.5 pounds (1.6 kg) | 608 |
|
Illustrated Edition (Jim Kay) Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire |
Scholastic | Hardcover (oversized) | 978-0545791427 | 9.5 x 1.25 x 11 inches (24.1 x 3.2 x 27.9 cm) | 4.7 pounds (2.1 kg) | 464 |
Note: weights can vary by printing and paper stock. Book 4 is also long, so format differences become obvious fast.
The standard and the House edition sets, of course, are (almost) pure text. That is not a downgrade. For many kids, it is exactly what allows them to fall into the story and keep going.
If you want a good mental model: MinaLima tends to add “experience” as a layer on top of reading. Jim Kay tends to add “vision” as a layer on top of reading. The standard set is just reading.
Shelf presence and gift impact
Let’s talk about the emotional side, because people pretend it doesn’t matter, then buy with their eyes anyway. Yeah, Read Aloud Dad is guilty! :-)
MinaLima wins the instant “wow” moment for early books. It looks and feels like a premium gift object, and the interactivity gives the recipient something to do immediately.
This is why flip-through videos are so persuasive.
Just glance at this fantastic flip-through video of the MinaLima book 1
Meanwhile, Jim Kay wins the “classic deluxe” presence. It feels like the illustrated classics many of us grew up admiring, but applied to Harry Potter.
A standard 1–7 box set has a very special gift message to the child.
It says: I am giving you the whole story. That lands extremely well for many families, especially if the child is at the age where they want to binge-read.
But wait a moment. Please be aware of the impact of this present on your child.
Do not insist that they read all of them. Some may be overwhelmed and some may be even be afraid of tackling such a load of written material. They might keep their concerns to themselves.
These are big books. A book set is a present, not homework.
So - rule number 1 is - no pressure! Not even hints or suggestions.
So - rule number 1 is - no pressure! Not even hints or suggestions.
Let it sit in your home for some weeks, months or years. The time will come.
Just treat is as the present it is. Your confidence that your kid will be able to tackle them will inspire your child.
When you feel your kid might be ready, you could even start a read aloud session for the first chapter of the first book.
 |
| Another part of our Harry Potter collection Harry Potter: A History of Magic is the official book of the record-breaking British Library exhibition |
Then continue… slowly letting the first book drag you in… together.
And J.K. Rowling's magic will do its trick.
If you’re buying for someone who already loves collections and boxed sets, I have a few posts where I lean into the same gift logic.
A boxed set is often not about “having books.” It’s about the feeling of completeness.
Check out my post on the Wayside School Box Set or even on my most extravagant splurge ever: the NYRB Children’s Collection 40-Book Set - Why I Bought It (and Still Love It).
Another full book set worth having and which works as a terrific read aloud set is The Complete Wreck. Find out why I nearly said “No” to A Series of Unfortunate Events.
That same psychology that pushed me to get those sets is why the standard Potter box set is such a safe gift to a child.
The clear recommendation
Overall winner for most families: the standard 1–7 box set.
If your main goal is, “These books will get read,” the standard set is better because it is complete, practical, and habit-friendly.
It is the least likely to create a weird dynamic where the child wants the story but the adult is anxious about the book.
It is also the best option when the kid turns into a fast reader overnight, which happens more often than we expect.
Best for bedtime read-aloud families: the Jim Kay illustrated editions (continued by Levi Pinfold)
If your household is doing the read-aloud thing seriously, Jim Kay can be a great fit because it gives you rich visuals without constantly turning reading into a hands-on activity.
The warning is physical: these books are large. If your read-aloud sessions happen mostly in bed, you may prefer reading at a table or propping the book up.
If you’re still building the routine, I have a practical “get the read-aloud train moving” post (8 Ways to Start the Read Aloud Train) that fits naturally with this decision, because the edition is only half the story and the habit is the other half.
Best for collectors and display: MinaLima Books 1-3, followed by the Karl James Mountford version of Book 4+.
MinaLima is best when you want the recipient to open the book and feel like they just walked into a curated Harry Potter world. It is premium, it is playful, and it rewards slow browsing.
Finally, here is a short FAQ (that I compiled based on buyer worries):
Are MinaLima editions abridged?
They are sold as full-text editions with added illustrations and interactive elements.
Why do people say the illustrated hardbacks are “hard to read in bed”?
Because of size and weight. That’s not about the story, it’s about ergonomics. Flip-through videos make this obvious quickly.
Are interactive, illustrated books too delicate for kids?
They include interactive parts, which many readers treat more carefully than standard hardbacks. If the child is rough on books, it is wise to treat MinaLima as a “together book” at first.
If I can only buy one deluxe illustrated volume as a gift, which one?
If you want the most immediate “magic object” reaction, MinaLima Book 1 is a strong choice.
If you want classic illustrated-book deluxe without pop-ups, Jim Kay Book 1 is a strong choice.
What if the recipient is likely to binge-read the whole series?
Buy the standard book 1-7 set. That’s what it is for. You can't go wrong!
What if I care about matching spines and a unified shelf look?
Be cautious with both premium lines. There are transitions within the illustrated ecosystem (artist changes, different series lines). Collectors discuss this exact frustration.
Finished books 1-7? What to read next
We finished books 1 to 7. Is there any more Harry Potter to read?
If you finished Harry Potter books 1-7, you finished the main, core story. There isn’t an “eighth novel” that simply continues right where Book 7 ends in the same format and voice.
We do have the following books that continue the Harry Potter world, but it is best if you know exactly what do they encompass.
1. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, parts one and two (be aware that this is play script, not a normal novel)
Essentially, this is the closest thing to “more story with Harry” in terms of timeline, because it’s set years later with the next generation at Hogwarts.
 |
| Harry Potter and the Cursed Child |
It is written as a stage play script, meaning you read dialogue and stage directions, not a standard narrative. If your reader loves novels, this can feel strange at first. If your listener enjoys theatre, it can feel fast and vivid.
The story centers on Albus Severus Potter (Harry’s son) and his friendship with Scorpius Malfoy (Draco’s son).
A lot of the emotional weight is about family expectations, father-son tension, and trying to live up to a famous name.
A lot of the emotional weight is about family expectations, father-son tension, and trying to live up to a famous name.
There is a big plot engine involving time-turning and revisiting or twisting events that Potter fans already know.
If you are reading as a family, it often works best when treated as a special event read.
You can even read parts aloud with different voices, because it’s built for performance.
You can even read parts aloud with different voices, because it’s built for performance.
If your child’s favorite part of Harry Potter was the steady “one chapter leads to the next” novel flow, this won’t feel the same.
If your child likes big swings, big reveals, and is curious about “what happens later,” it can be exciting.
If your child likes big swings, big reveals, and is curious about “what happens later,” it can be exciting.
2. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (the original “textbook” companion, an illustrated edition exists!) - this book is often sold together with Quidditch Through the Ages and The Tales of Beetle the Bard (see below) as part of the Hogwarts Library set.
 | |
| Our own Hogwarts Library: Fantastic Beasts illustrated edition |
So what is this book?
It is a “Hogwarts Library” style book that exists inside the Potter/Hogwarts world.
It is a “Hogwarts Library” style book that exists inside the Potter/Hogwarts world.
Just ask your kid, he/she will know!
It reads like a field guide written by a wizarding expert (Newt Scamander), with short entries about magical creatures.
Each creature entry is basically “name, classification, what it does, and why it matters,” and it’s fun because you recognize many creatures from the series.
It is very easy to browse rather than read straight through. That makes it a good “post-series” book when a child wants Potter feelings without committing to another long storyline.
If your reader loves the creatures and the strange corners of the wizarding world, this is a satisfying “more Potter without more plot” choice.
3. Quidditch Through the Ages (wizard sports history, written like a real in-world book, also has illustrated edition!)
This is for the kid who finished the series and kept talking about Quidditch rules, teams, and matches.
 |
| Partial view of our Harry Potter bookshelf with with Hermione Granger Funko Pop a set of the Hogwarts Library books and a copy of the Marauder's Map! |
It reads like an in-world nonfiction book about Quidditch, almost like a sports history mixed with rulebook material.
Contains sections on how Quidditch developed, changes in rules over time, broom evolution, and the kind of odd historical trivia that makes the wizarding world feel real.
It’s more fun than it sounds because it has that “this is what Hogwarts students would actually read” vibe.
4. The Tales of Beedle the Bard (wizard fairy tales + commentary, also has a nice illustrated edition)
This is the book that feels the most like a “home artifact” from inside the wizarding world.
Essentially, it's a handful of short wizard fairy tales, with their own morals, odd twists, and old-story energy.
The big draw is that these aren’t just random stories. In the original series, one tale (“The Tale of the Three Brothers”) connects directly to a major concept in Book 7.
Many editions include commentary “as if” by a character in-world, which makes it feel like you’re reading something that belongs on a wizard family shelf.
This is a great choice if your reader likes the folklore feeling in fantasy, or if you want something you can read aloud in one sitting, one story at a time.
I can't believe I made it to here. This was a pretty big effort, but I hope this little guide will assist some of you in your quest to send your little readers and listeners to Hogwarts!
PS if you are wondering about that little Hermione Granger doll from our shelf, it's part of the Funko Pop collection of Harry Potter characters. They have different sets and individual figurines and they make perfect gifts to our young readers.
Thanks for your company!
I can't believe I made it to here. This was a pretty big effort, but I hope this little guide will assist some of you in your quest to send your little readers and listeners to Hogwarts!
PS if you are wondering about that little Hermione Granger doll from our shelf, it's part of the Funko Pop collection of Harry Potter characters. They have different sets and individual figurines and they make perfect gifts to our young readers.
Thanks for your company!
Happy reading,
Read Aloud Dad
Where to buy
These are affiliate links — if you buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
1) Standard complete 1–7 box set (my default pick)
Amazon.com (US) – Check price
ThriftBooks – Check price
Amazon.ca – Check price
Bookshop.org – Check price
Better World Books – Check price
AbeBooks – Check price
Amazon UK – Check price
Tip: if your goal is “finish the whole story,” don’t overthink it — a standard 1–7 set is the lowest-regret choice.
2) Interactive illustrated editions (MinaLima 1–3 + Mountford 4+)
Amazon.com (US) – Check price
ThriftBooks – Check price
Amazon.ca – Check price
Bookshop.org – Check price
Better World Books – Check price
AbeBooks – Check price
Amazon UK – Check price
Tip: these are “slow and special” books — great for browsing and gifting, not always ideal for fast binge-reading.
3) Illustrated editions (Jim Kay 1–5, then Levi Pinfold 6–7)
Amazon.com (US) – Check price
ThriftBooks – Check price
Amazon.ca – Check price
Bookshop.org – Check price
Better World Books – Check price
AbeBooks – Check price
Amazon UK – Check price
Tip: if your read-aloud happens in bed, size/weight matters — these are gorgeous but chunky.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Have this edition? Tell me what you love or don’t.