Book Review by Aarene Storms: Fantastic Beasts and where to find them

Fantastic Beasts and where to find them - the original screenplay
by J.K. Rowling

The year is 1926, and British magiczoologist Newt Scamander has arrived in New York with a quest and a briefcase full of unusual magical creatures.

Also: Grindelwold, the bad guy idolized by Voldemort.

Also: Mary Lou Barebone, a sort of Carrie Nation against the magical world.

Also: some children, who may or may not have secrets.

Also:  two pretty ladies, see above re: secrets

And finally: Jacob, a regular guy who wants to be a pastry baker.  He has no secrets.

When a few beasts escape, Newt must locate them all before something dire happens. What could possibly go wrong?

The long-awaited return to the magical universe of Harry Potter does not disappoint: the magic is there, the mystery, and the threat to peaceful people everywhere. The story is written in screenplay format, which appears to be close to the final version used in the movie.

If you've seen the film, the book will offer no surprises. If you haven't seen the movie yet, you'll want to see it, if only to view the fantastic beasts described in the book.

Magical (non-gory) violence, no cussing. Some romance and kissing. No nekkidness.
Recommended for fans of the series, ages 10 to adult.


The events may not have happened; still, the story is true.  --R. Silvern

Aarene Storms, youth services librarian
Richmond Beach and Lake Forest Park Libraries, KCLS