Dimensions
129 x 198 x 26mm
Hinkypunks, ice mice and Bertie Bott's beans; Fluffy the three-headed dog, Quidditch and waterproof fire - just a few of the mysteries explained in this magical volume.
- Who is the real Dumbledore?
- What can the giant squid tell us about Hogwarts?
- Can owls really deliver the post?
Magic and science may seem strange bedfellows, but in this captivating and far-ranging book, award-winning science writer Roger Highfield nimbly illustrates how the two are deeply intertwined in the Harry Potter books, to reveal not only why we still believe in magic but also how magic could actually work, scientifically.
'The Science Of Harry Potter' teases out the scientific explanations and surprising factual foundations of marvels and mysteries such as giants, dragons, broomsticks and all the oddities of JK Rowling's magical world. Highfield delves into the archaeology of witchcraft, tracing the origins of wands, cauldrons and pointed hats.
He speculates on the surprising connection between flying broomsticks and the bizarre drug-taking practices of witches. Here too is a plausible account of the cutting-edge research that explains the invisibility cloak, the ability of the Philosopher's Stone to turn lead into gold, and much else besides.
As illuminating as it is enchanting, this book sheds light not only on Harry Potter's magical realm, but on the magic that is taking place in labs in our own world. With the success of 'Harry Potter' and 'The Lord Of The Rings', interest in magic spells, charms and potions has never been greater.
Drawing on the help of dozens of leading scholars around the world, Highfield is able to explain and entertain at the same time, making the remarkable world of magic even more real to all those who want to believe . . .
