We’ve all found inspiration between the pages of Jo’s books for myself, it’s that intangible moment between reading words and creating pictures that I enjoyed, and shall miss, so much.” I must thank them both for giving me 10 years of happy scribbling, and for the opportunity to meet so many Potter fans from all walks of life. I would never have travelled this far through Harry’s journey without the constant support and patience of Bloomsbury and J K Rowling. “What comforts me is the knowledge that Bloomsbury will continue working with and supporting other artists to make the remaining books both beautiful and inspiring for a new generation of young readers. I have been struggling with mental health illness for some time, and it would be wrong to try and continue when I can no longer give the fans and the series the full commitment and energy it deserves.

After 10 years of working with Bloomsbury, it is with great sadness that I have to step down from illustrating Harry Potter. I am extremely lucky to have been involved in a franchise that has meant so much to so many people across the world. “When I received a phone call back in 2013 with an offer of an illustration job, I could never have anticipated the impact it would have upon my life.

This latest edition will see Jim Kay joined by guest artist Neil Packer, winner of the Bologna Ragazzi Award 2021. Jim Kay the Kate Greenaway Medal winning illustrator of the Harry Potter series is to step down after the publication of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix on 11th October.

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