The last Harry Potter book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, was released almost ten years ago but that hasn't stopped author J.K. Rowling from continuing to write about the world of magic and wizardry. In a new short story that the author posted on Pottermore, Rowling introduces fans to an entirely new hero; an Irish girl named Isolt Sayre who helped found the North American equivalent of Hogwarts, Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
The short story — which, ironically — is pretty lengthy, feels like the closest fans will get to a new Harry Potter-style journey. It has betrayal, drama, friendship and, of course, love. It also sets the stage for a longer exploration of the character if Rowling was interested in pursuing a new series. There are some throwbacks to the original Harry Potter series, including the wand of Slytherin and a main character named James — of course — but it mostly stands on its own two feet.
The short story is the second in Rowling's new series about magic in North America, which she started as a way to continue writing about magic while exploring the role North America's wizard community plays in the upcoming film adaptation of her novel, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. The newest short story does focus quite a bit on magical creatures and the various species that inspired the four houses within Ilvermory. Those looking for a quick introduction to the story without having to read through it can catch up in the video above.
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, which stars Eddie Redmayne, hits theaters Nov. 18.
