J. K. Rowling just seems to get better and better with each new entry in the Harry Potter series and this volume, without a doubt, is the most compelling book yet. From the outset we learn that Sirius Black, a notorious criminal that even the Muggles know, has escaped from Azkaban prison. Worse yet, he is after Harry Potter who has just returned to Hogwarts School for a third term. Sinister Azkaban prison guards called Dementors have been placed all around the entrances to Hogwarts, ostensibly to keep Sirius Black away from the school. But to Harry the Dementors seem to pose as much as a threat as the escaped prisoner -- he faints from fright every time he sees one. So concerned is he about the effect they have on him that he seeks out the assistance of Professor Lupin, the new Defense against the Dark Arts teacher, who helps Harry face his fears. We have just as much humor, excellent characterization and intricate plotting in this novel as in the previous two but here Rowling introduces for the first time a layer of psychological depth, as Harry, now age 13, begins to come to terms with the death of his parents. As a result, the novel has a more somber and slightly more mature tone than its predecessors. Still, the rousing story will keep Potter fans turning the pages and the mind-blowing twist at the end of the book is likely to inspire repeated readings, of this volume if not the entire series. And, of course, everyone who reads it will now be anxiously awaiting Book Four. (Ages 9-14)

'Welcome to the Knight Bus, emergency transport for the stranded witch or wizard. Just stick out your wand hand, step on board and we can take you anywhere you want to go.'

When the Knight Bus crashes through the darkness and screeches to a halt in front of him, it's the start of another far from ordinary year at Hogwarts for Harry Potter. Sirius Black, escaped mass-murderer and follower of Lord Voldemort, is on the run - and they say he is coming after Harry. In his first ever Divination class, Professor Trelawney sees an omen of death in Harry's tea leaves... But perhaps most terrifying of all are the Dementors patrolling the school grounds, with their soul-sucking kiss...


Having become classics of our time, the Harry Potter eBooks never fail to bring comfort and escapism. With their message of hope, belonging and the enduring power of truth and love, the story of the Boy Who Lived continues to delight generations of new readers.