The specific physical appearance of The Standard Book of Spells, Grade 4 is not described in the original novels. As a required school textbook, it was available for purchase at Flourish and Blotts in Diagon Alley. It is the fourth volume in a comprehensive series authored by Miranda Goshawk that covers the subject of Charms for each year of study at Hogwarts.
This book is the primary educational resource for fourth-year Charms class, which is taught by Professor Filius Flitwick. It contains the theory, incantations, and proper wand movements for a variety of intermediate-level Charms. The book provides the foundational knowledge that enables students to practice and eventually master the spells required for their academic year. Known spells and topics covered include:
The Standard Book of Spells, Grade 4 is one volume in a long-standing series that forms the core of the Hogwarts Charms curriculum. The entire series was written by the renowned Charms expert, Miranda Goshawk. The collection consists of at least six, and presumably seven, volumes, with a new book corresponding to each year of study. These books have been a staple of magical education for many generations of students.
The book is first mentioned in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire when Harry Potter receives his list of required school supplies for his fourth year. Its primary significance to the plot is through the spells it teaches, most notably the Summoning Charm. The study of Accio from this textbook is a crucial plot point. While Hermione Granger masters the charm quickly, Harry Potter struggles with it in Professor Flitwick's class. He is later advised to perfect it in preparation for the Triwizard Tournament. His eventual mastery of the spell, achieved through dedicated practice, proves instrumental to his survival and success in the First Task. He uses Accio to summon his Firebolt broomstick from the castle, allowing him to outmaneuver the Hungarian Horntail and retrieve the golden egg. The textbook is therefore directly responsible for providing Harry with the magical tool essential for overcoming one of his greatest challenges.