Book Review: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: The Original Screnplay by J.K. Rowling

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: The Original Screenplay – J.K. Rowling

*Warning – may contain spoilers*

Author: J.K. Rowling

Publisher: Little, Brown

First published: 2016

Edition: Beautiful hardback, and when you take the dust cover off there’s a cute little niffler on the front!

Pages: 293

Blurb:    J.K. Rowling invites you to explore a new era of the Wizarding World…

Explorer and Magizoologist Newt Scamander has just completed a round-the-globe trip in search of the most rare and unusual magical creatures. Arriving in New York, he intends his stay to be just a brief stopover. However, when Newt’s case is misplaced and some of his fantastic beasts escape into the city, it spells trouble for everyone…

History of my copy: I picked this up on release day at Waterstones, having previously pre-ordered it. It came with a little bag of goodies, including some Fantastic Beasts bookmarks, a mini poster and a cute little ‘accio’ badge.

As I’m sure you’re well aware, this is the screenplay to the fantastic (no pun intended) film of the same name, which was adapted from the Hogwarts book by Newt Scamander. I had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the film 3 days early in 3D at my local cinema as one of the premieres. And it was amazing. The story was fantastic, the acting (especially Redmayne’s flawless performance of the flawed (/perfect to me) Newt) and it was everything I wanted from a return to the magical world.

I then got the book on release day and read that, using the non-fiction book of Scamander’s as a little reference guide to some of the creatures encountered. Rowling has since announced a re-release of Scamander’s book which will include the new creatures from the film that aren’t featured in the original and I look forward to reading it.

Setting: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them takes us across the pond to New York where we encounter the same wizarding world seen in Harry Potter, with a large number of pivotal differences. America is a world in which witches and no-maj (muggles) are completely segregated. Alongside this, there is a clear fear of magic which underlies the whole story.

               As a screenplay, the book itself is, of course, lacking in description of the setting beyond basic scene setting but when accompanied with the film, the whole thing is breathtakingly beautiful. 1920s America definitely had a stunning feel.

               We also begin to discover a little about Ilvermorny, America’s wizarding school, through a great little scene in which the Goldstein’s and Newt argue over which is best, leaving Jacob both awed and a little confused.

               But perhaps the most magical setting of all is the inside of Newt’s suitcase, which is home to a vast variety of habitats in which all his creatures can comfortably live and I think it’s clear that Newt too regards his suitcase world as home, as he appears only ever entirely at ease when surrounded by animals.

Plot: We follow Newt as he arrives in America with a suitcase full of his ‘fantastic beasts’ which just so happen to get accidently set free by our lovable no-maj Jacob. Tangled up with the Goldstein sisters, the majority of the story focuses on Newt rescuing his creatures from the Erumpent to the cute Niffler and the invisible Demiguise, leading to some hilarious moments.

Underlying this, we have the threat of Grindelwald looming over the magical world, which our favourite four unintentionally get involved in, setting the scene for the next two planned films. Whilst the plot twist regarding Grindelwald was rather predictable, it was executed wonderfully both in the script and on-screen.

Characters: Fantastic Beasts has a whole world of characters that are all so unique yet so interesting. From the magical Newt to Jacob the no-maj, the mysterious Graves to the vulnerable Credence and, of course, everyone’s favourite sisters Tina and Queenie who are both so similar yet so strikingly different, there is definitely a character for everyone. We even have a mention of the infamous Albus Dumbledore, whom Newt knows from his Hogwarts days.

Newt himself is an adorable character and definitely an all-time favourite and no, not just because he’s a Hufflepuff. He’s shy, but intelligent and his true character comes out when surrounded by his precious animals. Honestly, he’s so relatable. Plus you can see him open up to Tina and it’s such a beautiful budding romance!

That leads me on to the Goldstein sisters who I just can’t wait to find out more about! What’s the real story behind their parents? How come Queenie can read minds? How do they meet Newt again? What about Queenie and Jacob – that has to happen!

A character I haven’t mentioned yet is Credence who is the focal point of the story. How did he get tangled up with Graves in the first place? Why is his magic secret and oppressed? DID HE SURVIVE?

To read or not to read: Go read immediately. This is another Rowling masterpiece that everyone needs in their life. Whilst I recommend watching the film first, honestly the screenplay just adds to it all and Rowling has created such a fantastically woven plot as per usual.

I think the fact that this review is all over the place just emphasises how much I loved Fantastic Beasts. As I was writing it, all these small details came flooding back that helped link the whole story together and honestly, I’m really struggling to get my adoration for Fantastic Beasts and Newt Scamander down on paper. Just go read it right now and you’ll understand what I’m on about.

Christmas Book Haul 2

It's that time of year again folks! I hope you have all had an amazing festive period whether you celebrate Christmas, any other holidays, or nothing at all. 

As per usual, it isn't really Christmas without family, gifts and, of course, books! I thought for this post I would do a quick update on the state of the books I got last Christmas (blog post can be found here) and then dive into the literary wonders I received this time round.

Last year's books:

Eragon's Guide to Alagaesia by Christopher Paolini

This was the first book I completed in 2016 and I gave it a 4* review.

Illustrated Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J. K. Rowling

I'm still yet to finish this one, but the images are just beautiful!

Wars of the Roses: Bloodline by Conn Iggulden

Oops I haven't even started this one yet.

Magnus Chase and the Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan

Ahh yes this one was so good! I gave it a 5* review.

The Company of the Dead by David Kowalksi

Don't think I've even started this one either.

The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan

I haven't even touched the first of this trilogy. Maybe this year?

The Copper Gauntlet by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare

I loved this one so much I actually finished it back in 2015, just after Christmas! It got a 4* review.

The Enchanted Forest Postcards by Joanna Basford

I've done a few of these now and I'm still super obsessed with how pretty they are. Check out my adult colouring page here.

And now onto this years books!!!

The Bronze Key by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare

Already read this one and I am so in love with it! It had a great twist and I'm heartbroken and I just need the next one like right now. Review shall be up soon.

Lady Midnight by Cassandra Clare

I read this back when it came out and gave it a glorious 5* review which you can read here. This was the edition I really wanted because it's so beautiful and is stamped by Cassie, but it was sold out when I wanted to get it. You should've seen the look on my face when I found some in my local Waterstones just before Christmas! I practically ran across the store crying! So yes, I am very glad to finally add this to my collection.

Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy by Cassandra Clare

In case you haven't noticed, I'm a pretty big Clare fan. I've wanted to read these short stories about Simon for a while now, but, as I did with The Bane Chronicles, I patiently waited until they were released as a full collection. Can't wait to get stuck in!

Wars of the Roses: Ravenspur by Conn Iggulden

Still haven't read Bloodline, but I needed this beautiful hard back edition to add to my collection.

Heartless by Marissa Meyer

I am a h.u.g.e. Meyer fan. The Lunar Chronicles is one of my favourite series ever and I've been dying to get my hands on Heartless since its release. This edition is gorgeous and I can't wait to get started! Find my review for Stars Above here, including links to the 4 main books of The Lunar Chronicles.

Magnus Chase and the Hammer of Thor by Rick Riordan

As you can see above, I loved the first book in the Magnus Chase series and can't wait to get stuck into this one.

Illustrated Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling

Seriously, you can never read Harry Potter enough times. These illustrated editions are just a gorgeous collection to any Potter collection. They're almost too pretty to read!

Taylor Swift - This Is Our Song by Tyler Conroy

I have been a dedicated Swiftie for over a decade now so as soon as I saw this book, I knew I needed it. I'll probably get super jealous of all the fans when I read it (I still haven't seen her live - she always plays too far away for me to affordably go see) but I'll live with it because I just need more Swift in my life.


So there we have it! These are all the books I got for Christmas. Leave a comment with the ones you received!

Book Review: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child by J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany and Jack Thorne

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany and Jack Thorne

*Warning – may contain spoilers*

Authors: J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany and Jack Thorne

Publisher: Little, Brown

First published: 2016

Edition: Hardback, special rehearsal edition script

Pages: 330

Blurb:    The eighth story.

               Nineteen years later…

               It was always difficult being Harry Potter and it isn’t much easier now that he is an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, a husband, and father of three school-age children.

               While Harry grapples with a past that refuses to stay where it belongs, his youngest son Albus must struggle with the weight of a family legacy he never wanted. As past and present fuse ominously, both father and son learn the uncomfortable truth: sometimes darkness comes from unexpected places.

History of my copy: As you can see from my post here, I was intending to go to the midnight release of this book, but was unable to. I got it first thing the following morning though!

This book is a script. I’ve seen so, so, so many people complaining that they were expecting a book, despite the fact that Cursed Child has always been a play and the book has always been a script. It’s also not written by J.K. Rowling. It’s based on her story, but the play itself and thus the script was written by Jack Thorne.

Now that that’s out of the way, onto the proper review! Regardless of what some people have said, this truly is the eighth Potter book. Rowling had an input, it’s her stories and characters and, at the end of the day, it had a Potter-esque plot and it is great! Did I like it as much as the original series? No, but it is still a.m.a.z.i.n.g.

I initially thought that the fact that it’s a script would put me off, especially as I haven’t really read any scripts before, but I soon got the hang of it and it really didn’t bother me.

Plot: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child primarily follows Albus Potter, who is sorted into Slytherin and befriends Scorpius Malfoy. Together, the pair try to go back in time to save Cedric Diggory but end up messing with the future. On top of this, it turns out that a part of Voldemort still lives and so the golden trio, along with an unlikely ally, Draco, must defeat that too.

         Full of both daddy trouble and magic, Cursed Child is a good mix between a growing up story and a traditional Rowling magic-filled plot.

         I actually really enjoyed the plot of Cursed Child. Whilst in some places it seemed a little far-fetched (especially the trolley-witch, what was that?), I had to remind myself that this is a world of magic and horcruxes and so nothing really is too far-fetched.

         The time-turning and alternative futures allowed a certain amount of nostalgia for the original series, especially Goblet of Fire, whilst also creating some almost humorous situations. And a horrific one where Umbridge was still in charge!

Setting: As a script, the only setting was the location listed at the top of each scene. Because of this, imagination was really needed to picture what was going on. However, it didn’t take away from the story. If you’re lucky enough to see the play, I imagine that would be a great benefit in picturing what happens.

Characters: Another common criticism of Cursed Child is the lack of characters, especially the well-loved Teddy Lupin. However, as a play, they are obviously limited to how many characters, especially as they all have to be introduced. I personally think Cursed Child had enough of the old characters, even Dumbledore and Snape, to hit that nostalgic tone, but also incorporated the new generation.

               Scorpius is my favourite character by far (apart from my beloved Ron of course). He was so well-written! He was nerdy, shy, but good at heart, really enforcing the fact that not all Syltherins are bad, especially considering who his father is. It also breaks my heart to know that Hogwarts students bully him because they think he is the son of Voldemort.

Whilst I didn’t like Albus as much, it was kinda nice to see someone who disliked having Harry as a dad, and it was interesting to see his struggles. Although he was a little whiny at times, he was actually alright.

Delphi was also a rather interesting character. Whilst her heritage was a little …odd, she was clearly clever and cunning and every bit of her father. Also, at the end of the day, I even felt a little sorry for her. Whilst Albus grew up with a father he didn’t get on so well with, Delphi was the complete opposite – growing up without a father whilst idolising him.

To read or not to read: Read. Or, if possible, go see the play (I would love to!) If you go in open-minded, remembering that it is a play and not written by Rowling herself, you won’t be disappointed. It truly is the eighth part of Harry’s story. I hope you love it as much as I did!

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Unless you have spent the best part of the past year living under a rock, you will be well aware that a new Harry Potter play, and subsequently the script, was in the making. Yesterday, the play, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, had its official opening which, of course, left the book to be released today, July 31st, also known as both Harry Potter's and his 'mother', JK Rowling's, birthday.

First of all, I want to wish a very happy birthday to the pair!

You might know that I'm a huge Potter fan and I have been so excited about this book for so long now! The eighth Potter book has finally arrived! Just to give you an idea of how much of a fan I am: I've read the books so many times I've actually lost count; I've watched the films so much I can talk along to them; last night I watched Deathly Hallows Part 2 in preparation and I didn't even get 2 minutes in before crying.

So yes, h.u.g.e. Potterhead here so it's unsurprising just how emotional I was today.

I actually had a ticket for the midnight release of the book at my 'local' (over 25 miles away) Waterstones in Plymouth. However, due to the distance, I couldn't attend. I could get a bus there, but no matter how much begging, my parent's refused to pick me up. Yep, they're actually worse than the Dursleys. 

Did I let that spoil the fun? Hell no!

I got the first bus in this morning (which did mean getting up at 8am... on a Sunday...) and was outside Waterstones ready for the doors to open to receive my copy! Once I had my book, I went to the other Waterstones in the city to take part in the celebrations.

I bought the quidditch set, had some of Harry's birthday cake, made a bookmark, took loads of photos and took part in the fantastic scavenger hunt they had set up. It was so much fun, especially seeing everyone all dressed up in their finest wizarding gear and immaculate uniform!

I've only read about a third of the book so far, but I am thoroughly enjoying it. I've only read a couple play scripts before, so it took a while to get used to. I also miss having the inner thoughts of the characters and the setting descriptions, but besides that, Cursed Child is certainly living up to it's hype!

Do you have the book? Have you read it yet? What are your thoughts?

#SundaySeven (03/04/16)

I've been very busy this week with some family from Cambridge being down and catching up on school work. For those of you who follow me on Instagram, you'll have seen that I've been to Tintagel (one of my favourite places) and to Geevor. I've also been busy with school work, which is why this post is a lot later than usual. 

1. 

@book.lover14

Eleni has featured before and, unsurprisingly when you look at her photos, loads of hers made it to my shortlist this week. In fact, I love this photo so much, it actually makes me wish I had enjoyed the book a lot more. I just love the collection of items that match the book's theme and colours and the way it is just so fantastically done.

2. 

@thehufflepuffle

April first is, of course, April Fools Day and Lindsay posted this snap of her joke tbr. But look how beautiful that edition is! I totally want! As you may have noticed, I love photos full of little, random objects that compliment it. I just love the cards as well! I wonder if they have a meaning, or if they were just chosen at random. I love her account, and her more recent photo of The Paladin was in my shortlist for this week too!

3. 

@jennifermadero

I know, I know, I had a Lady Midnight spam a few weeks ago, but I couldn't resist choosing this beautiful photo of Jennifer's! For someone who hasn't read the book, the accessories are spot on! The jewellery makes me think of the Fair Folk and Mark and Kieran, and the sea shells tie in with the LA beach that the institute is near (and let's not forget that scene that occurred on the beach). Also, I do love the idea of using book pages as a background!

4. 

@lechoixdesofie

Similar to my second choice last week, I still clearly have a thing for rainbow books and doodles. My rainbow book tags always look awful, but ones like Sofie's are stunning! I may have to take some inspiration from this next time. Rainbow book photos always just make me 'aw'. 

5. 

@book.lover14

Twice in one week! Wow Eleni, your photos really are stunning this week! But how could I ignore this photo? (And those black page edges!) The only thing I love more than rainbows or accessories in a photo is more books! I also love the plant that's currently featuring in most of her photos. And, well, I can't help but notice Lady Midnight in the corner!

6. 

@jmstorinbooks

Of course, it's not a #KatticusSundaySeven without a little of my Harry Potter love. Or, in this case, a lot as the next photo is also Potter themed. I love the pop, I love the socks, I love the notebook, I love the photo! Even though I'm a Hufflepuff, I love all the red and am totally in love with this cute little photo. Also, Jessica is releasing her book The Paladin this week!! Totally going to get my hands on it when I have a little more money.

7. 

@book.belle

And, of course, some Potter love to wrap up this post. I love how this photo is almost symmetrical, but not quite. I also love the little Potter items and the way they are arranged around the books. It's so organised yet so cute! (And I'm a huge funko fan, so bonus points there!)

Thankyou for reading, and thanks to all the bookstagram accounts (both those featured, and the countless others I poured through in order to decide on my seven). 

None of these photos are mine, and I have credited the account and notified them that I am using their image. Occasionally, it is known for accounts to repost photos without crediting the original owner. I do not support this. All photos are, to my knowledge, original to the accounts credited. If not, I will happily amend and assist in reporting accounts that are stealing photos. (To the accounts featured: I am not suggesting this applies to you, I am merely covering myself. This paragraph shall feature on all #SundaySeven posts in the rare and unfortunate case problems may occur.)

#SundaySeven (27/03/16)

First of all, I'd love to wish you all a Happy Easter! Have fun eating all those yummy chocolate eggs, or a good time going to church, or just have a fantastic day even if you don't celebrate this holiday.
I'm now on Easter break, which will sadly mostly be taken up by revision for my A-levels in only a few months time. I have, however, just bought a new camera to use for my bookstagram so keep an eye out for some awesome(-ish) photos!
Sorry again for being unable to do last week's #SundaySeven but, here I am, back to normal for the last weekend of March. Where has this month gone?!?
What a better way to end the month, and spend Easter, than flicking through my favourite bookstagram photos of the past fortnight? (As promised, I considered the previous two weeks due to the lack of post last Sunday).

1. 

@fandombooking

Kicking off this week's bunch is this beautiful Harry Potter themed photo. Including the first three books, just before things really started to get evil with the return of Lord Voldemort, I just love these editions of the books and that time turner necklace looks so beautiful! I also love the bookshelves in the background as they're just so colourful.

2. 

@weasleyswizardingbooks

Look how cute this photo is!!! Seriously, as soon as I saw this posted, I just knew it was going to make it into a #SundaySeven. The stars are so cute and such a unique addition to this photo. And the colours are just off to add to the photo, without being completely different. Man, I'm just so in love with this photo I don't even know how to describe it, but I hope you can see why.

3. 

@bookishlybelle

Belle's account is just full of so many stunning photos. It's one of those accounts that show that you really don't need a theme and a set background to pull off bookstagram. It's such a simple idea, yet she has pulled it off with style, the rose working well with the pattern at the top of the page. It also adds a nice splash of colour, without being too bold.

4. 

@paperfury

I stumbled across this photo when searching the #DitchThatJacket tag. Photos like this just remind me why I love love love hardback books without their dustcovers. Cait's photo looks cluttered, but not messy, and certainly gives off a really cute rustic feel. 

5. 

@mybookbliss

Me? A thing for hardback books? What on earth gave you that idea?? (Besides the fact I just said I did). Morgan's photo puts all those rainbow books to shame, just look how gorgeous it is! I really love the inclusion of the multicoloured ribbons and, along with the candles and bright colour of the books, it just feels like a bookstagram birthday photo!

6. 

@fantasyfangirlsbookblog

I love the fact that Dorothy and Misty run their bookstagram together. I totally wish I had a best friend to help me run mine and my book blog. This photo is so simply done, just throw a necklace over a book, but it looks amazing. The cover itself is so pretty and I think the way the necklace breaks the line of reflection makes this photo stand out.

7. 

@sobookinggood

Nothing says 'I love your account' more than the fact that Tracey has featured in three #SundaySevens now! (I promise she isn't paying for me to promote her haha). I just really really love her photos. Now that it's March, and after the gorgeous weather I experienced here in Cornwall on Friday, it really is starting to feel a lot like Spring. I haven't actually heard of the book here, but I just couldn't resist picking this photo for just how bright and Spring-y the daffodils make the photo.

Thankyou for reading, and thanks to all the bookstagram accounts (both those featured, and the countless others I poured through in order to decide on my seven). 

None of these photos are mine, and I have credited the account and notified them that I am using their image. Occasionally, it is known for accounts to repost photos without crediting the original owner. I do not support this. All photos are, to my knowledge, original to the accounts credited. If not, I will happily amend and assist in reporting accounts that are stealing photos. (To the accounts featured: I am not suggesting this applies to you, I am merely covering myself. This paragraph shall feature on all #SundaySeven posts in the rare and unfortunate case problems may occur.)

#SundaySeven (28/02/16)

So here is the very first #SundaySeven! I will admit, I totally underestimated how difficult this would be. At one point, I was worried it would become Sunday Seventeen, or perhaps even Sunday Seventy... But, at the end of the day, I have knuckled down and chosen my favourite seven. It amazes me just how talented the bookstagram community is, and the wide range of photos and imaginative techniques they display, especially considering most aren't professional photographers.
So, here is what you have all been waiting for...

1. 

@celinereads

This photo caught my eye and became my favourite of the week for a few reasons. Firstly, I am a huge Harry Potter fan, and am bound to 'like' any photo Potter related. Also, I love the contrast of the dark green against the whites and pastel colours of the surrounding books. Furthermore, just something about the way it is being removed from the shelf really catches my attention.

2. 

@lei_reads

These two books have been on my tbr ever since I joined bookstagram. I mean look at those covers! I have since heard wonderful things about the contents too. Books featuring a selection of pens are quite common, even I have joined in with the trend a few times, but something about the contrast of the two book covers and the selection of pens, some of which you can easily match with a colour on the covers, and others that you feel as if are included somewhere, just really makes this photo stand out from the rest.

3. 

@harley_golightly

I love Sarah's account! All of her photos looks so simple yet sophisticated, I'm sure she could make even my least favourite books look absolutely gorgeous. As mentioned before, I am a huge Potterhead (and I promise there is only one more Potter related photo this week!) and saying that I'm jealous of those socks is quite an understatement. #SockSaturday and #SockSunday are very popular and some weekends it can feel as if I'm scrolling through a website displaying socks only! But this photo, with some beautiful copies of Harry Potter, just makes the scrolling worth it, because sometimes you'll come across some real gems, like this one.

4. 

@the.blonde.bookworm

I'm really not much of a clothes or shoes girl, but my gosh I love those boots! What I like about this photo, is the way Alex has played the colour scheme of Six of Crows (another book I am dying to read). Often, black, whites and greys can look more drab than smart, but this photo has really pulled it off! I think the location and positioning of the cardigan (possibly a blanket?) to the right of the photo, rather than the centre, helps make this one something special.

5. 

@ilsiereads

Although new to bookstagram, Ilsie's photos look like she has been around for years. Not only does she make use of roses, as mentioned in the title, she throws in one of those beautiful masks that I used to have an obsession with! To me, the other items in the photo compliment the book cover and title so well, it pretty much feels as if she has created this perfect visualisation of the book. Girl, you've got some serious talent and I can't wait to see what you come up with this week! (No pressure.)

6. 

@book_lovers_15

 A quick flick through bookstagram tells you that books come in all shapes and sizes, including a lovely pin-wheel as shown here! The pin-wheel itself looks just like numerous others (beautiful though it is!), but what really makes this photo is the adorable little crafted flower in the centre. To whoever made it, it's stunning! It really adds something special to this otherwise fairly average photo.

7. 

@read.dream.live

So as promised, one last Harry Potter photo to end my first ever #SundaySeven. Taking us back to where it all began, this photo shows off some adorable merch. I love love love these bookmarks (IG of creator found here) and am always so tempted to buy some. The problem is, I'm in so many fandoms, it would cost a fortune! Also included is the Harry Potter funko pop which, just like all pops, looks so cute. So although not a busy photo, the simplicity along with just how adorable the items are makes this photo just enter my top 7 of the week.

Thankyou for reading, and thanks to all the bookstagram accounts (both those featured, and the countless others I poured through in order to decide on my seven). 

None of these photos are mine, and I have credited the account and notified them that I am using their image. Occasionally, it is known for accounts to repost photos without crediting the original owner. I do not support this. All photos are, to my knowledge, original to the accounts credited. If not, I will happily amend and assist in reporting accounts that are stealing photos. (To the accounts featured: I am not suggesting this applies to you, I am merely covering myself. This paragraph shall feature on all #SundaySeven posts in the rare and unfortunate case problems may occur.)

Christmas Book Haul

Firstly, I want to wish a very Merry (belated) Christmas to you all!

This Christmas, I was lucky enough to get many fantastic gifts from all my family, but to save boring you, I shall just stick to the books I received. However, I shall briefly mention a fantastic sort-of Christmas present. Just before Christmas, I received an offer to study medicine at Plymouth university!

~The books I received for Christmas~

1) Eragon's Guide to Alagaesia  by Christopher Paolini

Although I've only read the first two books of The Inheritance Cycle (the other two       remain on my ever increasing TBR shelf), I am a huge fan of the world Paolini has created. I saw this at a Garden Centre in Autumn and so got my parents to put it back for Christmas.

2) Illustrated Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J.K. Rowling

Initially, I wasn't that sold on the idea of my favourite book series being illustrated. I enjoy the magic of using your imagination to picture the story, and was worried that the images would make me feel as if my version was 'wrong'. However, as soon as I saw the book itself, it instantly became one of my presents from my grandparents.

3) Wars of the Roses: Bloodline by Conn Iggulden

Although I wasn't a huge fan of the first in the series, as you can see from my review here, I absolutely loved the second book, Trinity. Because of this, Bloodline was a must-have Christmas present and again was a book I chose for my parents to give to me.

4) Magnus Chase and the Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan

I'm a big fan of the Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan, and all his other series have been on my to-buy-to-be-read list for ages. I'm also a huge Thor fan and, because of that, I have wanted to delve into Norse mythology a little more. When I stumbled across this book, especially a signed edition, I knew I had to have it!

I've actually started this one already and so far, I love it! It even has a special dedication to one of my favourite authors Cassandra Clare regarding the name Magnus. Also, it has a small appearance from one of my favourite characters from the Percy Jackson series too.

5) The Company of the Dead by David Kowalski

Growing up, I had a fascination of the Titanic, which probably rubbed off from my brother who loved it. This was a cover buy late this year, which ended up being put back for Christmas. I look forward to reading it!

6) The Kane Chronicles

As previously mentioned, all of Riordan's books have been on my TBR list for a while now, so The Kane Chronicles was one of the series that made it's way onto my Christmas wishlist for my family to choose presents from. Despite the fact I knew I could end up with the series as a present, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that they had found a nice hardback box-set of the trilogy.

7) The Copper Gauntlet by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare

I really enjoyed the first of the Magisterium books so The Copper Gauntlet also made its way onto my wishlist this year. It was a good book, proven by the fact I've already read it. Find the review here!

8) The Enchanted Forest Postcards by Johanna Basford

At first I was sceptical of the new trend: adult colouring. Growing up, I found the task boring and repetitive, always preferring to do things more mentally active such as reading or doing puzzles or jigsaws. However, I did warm to the idea as I heard a lot of good things about how relaxing it is.

As some studying six A-levels whilst battling depression and anxiety, as you can imagine I find it quite hard to relax most of the time. My family took this into consideration, along with my occasional mention of these adult colouring books, and bought me one as a surprise Christmas present.

So far, I've only done a little, but I am really loving it! I've bought some new pens and pencils to keep with it, and I am thoroughly enjoying spending a few minutes here and there colouring to take a break from everything else. I really recommend it to anyone who finds it hard to relax for any reason, especially the postcard sets as they are much smaller and less daunting than a huge, blank page needing to be coloured. They can also fit in your bag so you can take it with you on the go. The only downside is that some bits are extremely tiny and fiddly, but that only makes it more fun!