Karl James Mountford
A Spellbinding New Chapter
In 2025, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire returns to bookshop shelves in a stunning new form—complete with intricate illustrations and mesmerizing paper-engineered features. Illustrated by the talented Karl James Mountford and featuring interactive elements designed by Jess Tice-Gilbert, this special edition is not just a re-release; it's a reinvention of the magical fourth instalment of J.K. Rowling's beloved series. With over 150 full-colour illustrations and eight unique interactive elements, this deluxe volume brings the Triwizard Tournament, the Yule Ball, and the growing menace of Lord Voldemort to vivid life like never before.
The Magic of Mountford’s Vision
Karl James Mountford brings a fresh and distinctive artistic perspective to the Harry Potter universe. Known for his expressive and intricate artwork, Mountford injects a vibrant new energy into Goblet of Fire, allowing both longtime fans and first-time readers to explore the wizarding world through new eyes. From the glowing majesty of the Yule Ball to the eerie decay of the Riddle House, his illustrations capture the wide emotional and visual spectrum of the fourth book.
Among the many highlights are Mountford’s colourful renditions of Rita Skeeter, complete with her crocodile-green handbag and flamboyant accessories, and the magical expansion of the Weasley’s Quidditch World Cup tent. Dumbledore’s beard, too, receives a glorious moment of attention during the Yule Ball, nestled within a resplendent Great Hall decked out in frosty blues and purples.
Engineering Enchantment
Enhancing Mountford’s stunning visuals, Jess Tice-Gilbert’s paper-engineered elements offer readers a uniquely immersive experience. The interactive components—eight in total—allow readers to physically engage with the book in ways that mimic the very magic of the wizarding world. Open the Triwizard Tournament maze, reveal the ominous Dark Mark in the sky, and witness the transformation of the Goblet of Fire itself. These elements bring beloved moments to life with a tactile joy that adds new layers of wonder to the story.
A Milestone Edition
This special edition marks more than just another re-release; it commemorates the 25th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, originally released in 2000. The book represents a turning point in the series—a moment when the stories took a darker turn and the stakes became higher, as Harry unwittingly competes in the perilous Triwizard Tournament and Voldemort’s return becomes chillingly real.
Scholastic’s October 14, 2025, release of this edition underscores the publisher’s commitment to celebrating and reimagining the Harry Potter series for new generations. Ellie Berger, President of Scholastic Trade Publishing, remarked on this continuity of artistic excellence: “As the U.S. publisher of Harry Potter, it’s exciting to see J.K. Rowling’s beloved series illustrated and reimagined by a talented group of international artists over the years... We are thrilled to continue to publish these beautifully illustrated interactive editions.”
A Personal Journey into the Wizarding World
For Karl James Mountford, the opportunity to illustrate Goblet of Fire was more than a professional milestone—it was a personal journey. “I grew up with Harry Potter, and these books are so special and a real throwback to my childhood,” he said. The enormity of taking on such a beloved work was not lost on him. “It’s wonderful, surreal, and a little bit terrifying to illustrate the interactive edition... With big and extremely talented footsteps to follow, it’s an honor.”
Mountford’s illustrations radiate both affection and admiration for the story and characters. Working with what he calls the “incredible team of Potterheads at Scholastic,” Mountford endeavored to channel his respect and love for the material into every page, hoping readers would “look for the love, respect, and adventure within my artwork.”
Building on a Magical Legacy
This new release follows in the enchanted footsteps of MinaLima, who illustrated the first three interactive editions of the series. Mountford’s edition maintains the signature elements that defined those volumes—unabridged text, dynamic illustrations, and engaging interactive features—while adding his own unique voice to the visual storytelling of the series.
Published simultaneously in the UK by Bloomsbury Children’s Books, this edition joins a global literary phenomenon that has sold over 600 million copies in 85 languages. It ensures that collectors can continue building their interactive series without losing the magical thread that binds these editions together.
A Collector’s Dream, A Fan’s Delight
The interactive illustrated edition of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by Karl James Mountford is not only a tribute to the story’s enduring magic but also a celebration of artistic reinterpretation. It’s a book to be treasured, shared, and experienced anew, even for those who have walked the path through Hogwarts many times before. For both collectors and newcomers, this edition promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of one of the most thrilling chapters in the Wizarding World.