What was the model for The Order of the Phoenix?
Where do those names come from?
What is the real-life legend behind Voldemort's Dark Mark?
Could Snape's potions actually work?

J.K. Rowling's young heroic wizard, Harry Potter, lives in a world populated by dragons, centaurs, trolls, giants--and a three-headed dog named Fluffy--among other creatures from ancient myths and legends. Discover the astonishing origins of supernatural beasts, clues to hidden meanings in names, and amazing facts about real-life wizards and magic spells. From Alchemists to Unicorns, Basilisks to Veela, this fascinating compendium brings another dimension to Harry's adventures--from The Sorcerer's Stone to The Deathly Hallows.

This book was not authorized, prepared, approved, licensed or endorsed by J.K. Rowling, Warner Bros., or any other individual or entity associated with the HARRY POTTER books or movie.