Which J.K. Rowling novel introduced the wizarding prison Azkaban?

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban introduced the wizarding prison Azkaban.

The third Harry Potter novel was published in the United Kingdom on 8 July 1999. Its title refers to Sirius Black, an escaped prisoner who is initially believed to be a dangerous supporter of Lord Voldemort. The book later reveals important facts about Sirius, Harry’s parents, and the events surrounding their betrayal.

Azkaban is a prison guarded by Dementors, creatures that feed on positive emotions and intensify despair. The institution is operated by the British Ministry of Magic, and its grim reputation makes Sirius’s escape appear almost impossible. The novel therefore uses the prison as both a literal setting in the backstory and a symbol of fear.

The film adaptation was released in 2004 and directed by Alfonso Cuarón. It is often remembered for expanding the series’ darker atmosphere while introducing Remus Lupin, a new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher, and the magical time-travel device known as a Time-Turner.