Multimedia and Risograph illustrations make magical use of both generous white space and full-bleed spreads and feature vibrant pops of modern Halloween hues, including violet and acidic green. Playfully paced page turns reveal a visual transformation more frightening than even the young witch bargains for, but concise text with emphatic typography keeps the theatrical tone kind-spirited; Abbott perfectly captures youngsters’ often-warring desires for autonomy and reassurance. A sly seasonal pick for kids craving a dash of agency alongside their dress-up.
Description
Three starred reviews!
In this picture book offering a twist on the trick-or-treat trope, a feisty little girl has had enough of her parents picking cutesy Halloween costumes for her—this year, a witch!
A little girl has been every adorable thing you can imagine for Halloween, and she is done with being cuddly, sweet, and precious. This year, she’s rebelling big-time and going for a totally different vibe: the spookiest thing out there. She’s going to be…a witch!
With only a little help from Dad, she works hard on her witchy locks, brew, spells and enchantments, and power to petrify. But what happens when what she sees in the mirror is so spooky, she scares even herself? Nothing that an understanding dad—and maybe a quick restorative nap—can’t handle.
Reviews
For kids who are ready to break free from expectations and express themselves, this is an inspiring pick. [...] Vibrant colorized art, rich with greens, blues, purples, pinks, oranges, reds, and blacks, brings a nostalgic yet fresh feel to the story, capturing the little witch’s whirlwind of emotions. The simple yet powerful message about independence and self-expression will resonate with kids and parents alike. A must-buy. Young readers love exploring their independence, and this delightful story might just inspire a few more to embrace their unique selves—just like this little witch and her dad.
