The Witch Who Lost Her Shadow

by Mary Calhoun, Trinka Hakes Noble (Illustrator)

A witch is convinced that no cat could take the place of her lost black cat Shadow, until she is pursued by a small striped kitten.

30 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 1979

About the author

Mary Louise Huiskamp Wilkins, also known as Mary Calhoun was born on August 3, 1926 in Keokuk, Iowa. She received a bachelor's degree in journalism for the University of Iowa in 1948. She was hired as a reporter for the World-Herald in Omaha, Nebraska after graduation. Her fascination with spirits and folklore of the 19th century led her to write stories about witches, elves, cats, dwarfs, and pixies. She has also published stories in Jack and Jill and Humpty Dumpty magazines. She worked at the Omaha World Herald before marrying fellow journalist Frank Calhoun. Her first book, Making the Mississippi Shout, was published in 1957. She wrote more than 50 children's books during her lifetime including the Katie John series, Julie's Tree, Henry the Sailor Cat, and Cross-Country Cat. She died on October 27, 2015 at the age of 89.

Reviews

[Abigail · Rating 3 out of 5]

When the white witch Falinda, really more of a herbal healer, loses her beloved feline companion Shadow, she is inconsolable. Although the local children try to help, by offering her various kittens from their own homes, she refuses to be comforted, or to think of a replacement for the faithful black cat who followed her everywhere she went. Then a gray and black-striped kitten takes to haunting her doorstep, undeterred by her attempts to drive him off, and slowly begins to win her over. Although more of a stay-at-home cat than the wandering Shadow, this newcomer is full of love, and eventually wins her place - and her name, Homebody - at Falinda's side.

The third witchy picture-book I have read from Mary Calhoun - the previous two being The Witch of Hissing Hill , and Wobble, the Witch Cat - this book offers an appealing tale of loss and healing, as Falinda comes to terms with the disappearance of Shadow, and learns to accept Homebody into her heart. Published in 1979, The Witch Who Lost Her Shadow has a rather vintage feel to it, with illustrations that reminded me somewhat of the work of Margot Zemach. My favorite scene, visually speaking, was the one in which Shadow chases fireflies in the nighttime wood - it was just magical! - although the overall impression created by the artwork is appealing. Recommended to young children who are dealing with the loss of a pet, or who enjoy witchy fare.

[Michele · Rating 3 out of 5]

Falinda the good witch is always accompanied her cat, Shadow. One morning Shadow does not return from his nightly adventures. Falinda searches everywhere with no success. The children bring her kittens, but Falinda has no interest in replacing her dear pet. That is, until a little kitten keeps appearing at her doorstep seeking attention and bringing gifts.

[Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

I do like Mary Calhoun's books. And she seems to like cats.