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Polly and Buster #1
Polly and Buster: The Wayward Witch & the Feelings Monster
From Australia’s best-selling female author, Sally Rippin, comes Polly and Buster – a brand new junior fiction series about the magic of friendship.
Who ever heard of a witch and a monster being friends?
Everyone knows that witches don’t mix with monsters. Witches are educated, clever, sophisticated. But monsters? Monsters are just uncouth. Some are even dangerous.
But Polly the witch and Buster the feelings monster have been best friends forever.
It’s the sort of friendship that makes your heart squeeze with happiness.
Somehow, they've managed to keep their friendship a secret.
Until one day, when everything changes ...
Who ever heard of a witch and a monster being friends?
Everyone knows that witches don’t mix with monsters. Witches are educated, clever, sophisticated. But monsters? Monsters are just uncouth. Some are even dangerous.
But Polly the witch and Buster the feelings monster have been best friends forever.
It’s the sort of friendship that makes your heart squeeze with happiness.
Somehow, they've managed to keep their friendship a secret.
Until one day, when everything changes ...
281 pages, Hardcover
First published June 1, 2017
57 people are currently reading
312 people want to read
About the author
Sally Rippin
784 books224 followersSally Rippin was born in Darwin, but grew up mainly in South-East Asia. As a young adult she lived in China for three years, studying traditional Chinese painting. Sally has over seventy books published, many of them award-winning, including two novels for young adults. Her most recent work includes the highly acclaimed children’s novel Angel Creek and the popular Billie B Brown books, which became the highest selling series for 6-8 year olds in Australia within the first year of their release. Sally is Australia’s highest selling female author and her Billie B Brown books have sold more than 4.5 million copies in 14 languages.
Sally is a popular presenter in schools and at literary festivals both in Australia and overseas and has a regular program on 3RRR interviewing children’s authors and industry professionals. She is a passionate ambassador for the 100 Story Building creative writing centre for marginalized youth and has mentored many emerging writers and illustrators. Recently, she and her partner co-founded Story Peddlers, a hand-made performance tent that packs away into a custom-built bike, with the aim of bringing back the art of the roving storyteller.
Sally is a popular presenter in schools and at literary festivals both in Australia and overseas and has a regular program on 3RRR interviewing children’s authors and industry professionals. She is a passionate ambassador for the 100 Story Building creative writing centre for marginalized youth and has mentored many emerging writers and illustrators. Recently, she and her partner co-founded Story Peddlers, a hand-made performance tent that packs away into a custom-built bike, with the aim of bringing back the art of the roving storyteller.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
August 12, 2018
Many have felt unfairly treated at some point in their lives and had complicated friendships. Polly is one of them ...
Polly is a girl who has many problems to struggle with. She is doing it bad at school, especially when it comes to elixirs, something she doesn't master very well. She doesn't have any friends at school because she's too strange, something that her sister is ashamed of. She's also not good at reading. But fortunately she has Buster, her monster friend. The problem is that they must play in secret 'cause witches and monsters should preferably not be friends, but Polly has known him all her life and she won't let go of him. He also feels the same for her. But an experience put their friendship on a test and Polly's sudden abilities give her a lot of attention at school. But will she do the right thing, or would she rather be popular now that she finally is?
Sally Rippin is an Australian children's writer and she has also illustrated the pictures in the book. This is also the first book in a series. I'm unsure of how many books it is and possibly will be in the series, but I felt the urge to read the next book in the series, since I enjoyed the first book so much, even though I'm not in the right audience. But it reminds me of the children's books I read when I was a child before I quickly went over to something darker. I started reading horror and books for adults at a very young age, 'cause they addicted me more than the usual children's books did.
This is a good and charming book in many ways. Polly and Buster are about going their own ways, take care of true friendship, how bad bullying can go and try to step up and protect someone in a difficult time. Try to do the right thing, although it's difficult when you're young as Polly. You get almost a little envious of Polly who has a friend like Buster, who always gives warm hugs and is always there for you. He is both funny and warm, no monster at all.
There's a lot more to be said about this book, but read it. That's when it's best. Charming, fun and wonderful fantasy book for children, also for adults.
Polly is a girl who has many problems to struggle with. She is doing it bad at school, especially when it comes to elixirs, something she doesn't master very well. She doesn't have any friends at school because she's too strange, something that her sister is ashamed of. She's also not good at reading. But fortunately she has Buster, her monster friend. The problem is that they must play in secret 'cause witches and monsters should preferably not be friends, but Polly has known him all her life and she won't let go of him. He also feels the same for her. But an experience put their friendship on a test and Polly's sudden abilities give her a lot of attention at school. But will she do the right thing, or would she rather be popular now that she finally is?
Sally Rippin is an Australian children's writer and she has also illustrated the pictures in the book. This is also the first book in a series. I'm unsure of how many books it is and possibly will be in the series, but I felt the urge to read the next book in the series, since I enjoyed the first book so much, even though I'm not in the right audience. But it reminds me of the children's books I read when I was a child before I quickly went over to something darker. I started reading horror and books for adults at a very young age, 'cause they addicted me more than the usual children's books did.
This is a good and charming book in many ways. Polly and Buster are about going their own ways, take care of true friendship, how bad bullying can go and try to step up and protect someone in a difficult time. Try to do the right thing, although it's difficult when you're young as Polly. You get almost a little envious of Polly who has a friend like Buster, who always gives warm hugs and is always there for you. He is both funny and warm, no monster at all.
There's a lot more to be said about this book, but read it. That's when it's best. Charming, fun and wonderful fantasy book for children, also for adults.
April 3, 2019
I haven't really been doing book reviews lately, but finishing this book this afternoon re-inspired me to do one. I suppose it helps when you have met the author and she is just as delightful as the books she writes.
If I had primary age children, this is exactly what I would be reading them. It is also the perfect book for children who might not be confident enough readers to read something like Harry Potter yet, but really REALLY want to read about monsters and witches and all manner of wild and magical things. The message is beautiful and relevant but what impressed me the most, was that even though the story is written simply enough for a struggling reader to understand, I myself was thoroughly invested by the end. Which I think is an incredible testament to Sally's masterful storytelling ability.
The books themselves are just beautiful and surprisingly affordable for hard cover! I picked up mine from Big-W for a mere 12 dollars each 😱😻
If I had primary age children, this is exactly what I would be reading them. It is also the perfect book for children who might not be confident enough readers to read something like Harry Potter yet, but really REALLY want to read about monsters and witches and all manner of wild and magical things. The message is beautiful and relevant but what impressed me the most, was that even though the story is written simply enough for a struggling reader to understand, I myself was thoroughly invested by the end. Which I think is an incredible testament to Sally's masterful storytelling ability.
The books themselves are just beautiful and surprisingly affordable for hard cover! I picked up mine from Big-W for a mere 12 dollars each 😱😻
May 27, 2020
My seven-year-old daughter read this book. Devoured it in two nights.
Not only does it look like the most adorable book. Destined for classic status. It captivated her with the whimsical illustrations and embellishments throughout.
Already a fan of Billie B Brown, my daughter enjoyed the extra depth of this story. She couldn't wait to tell me all about it. The ending apparently was (edge of your seat) amazing. She couldn't put it down.
She loved the characters and wants to read it again. Very interesting. Must be a good book. I might have to read it myself.
Ten Stars from Angelina - 7 yrs old.
Not only does it look like the most adorable book. Destined for classic status. It captivated her with the whimsical illustrations and embellishments throughout.
Already a fan of Billie B Brown, my daughter enjoyed the extra depth of this story. She couldn't wait to tell me all about it. The ending apparently was (edge of your seat) amazing. She couldn't put it down.
She loved the characters and wants to read it again. Very interesting. Must be a good book. I might have to read it myself.
Ten Stars from Angelina - 7 yrs old.
September 28, 2019
I liked this a lot. It had such a nice warm humor and feeling.
August 10, 2019
Nu e puțin lucru să te entuziasmeze un roman tipic pentru copii, dar dacă reușim să trecem peste micile prejudecăți, o putem face cu voce tare. Da, foarte simpatice cele două personaje, Polly (micuța viitoare vrăjitoare) și Buster (micul monstru sentimental, care se transformă în funcție de emoții), o carte alertă, scrisă cu talent și cu drag pentru cititorii ei, fie adulți, fie copii (este un volum pentru toate vârstele).
Este o carte frumoasă despre prietenie, despre felul în care prietenii rămân alături în orice împrejurare, despre răpunerea tuturor barierelor discriminării.
Este o carte frumoasă despre prietenie, despre felul în care prietenii rămân alături în orice împrejurare, despre răpunerea tuturor barierelor discriminării.
September 1, 2023
Polly is a witch struggling at school and Buster is a monster and her neighbour. They are best friends, but they live in a world with prejudices against monsters, so witches and monsters should not be friends. I loved the subtle treatment of some serious issues (racism, dyslexia, bullying..)
And Buster is absolutely lovely and I just want to cuddle with him!
I plan to re-read this book, hopefully in a near future. I will then carry on with this series.
And Buster is absolutely lovely and I just want to cuddle with him!
I plan to re-read this book, hopefully in a near future. I will then carry on with this series.
October 19, 2019
3.5 rounded up! Great message and fair world building for 3rd-5thish crowd. Perfect for kids interested in Harry Potter, fantasy, wonder, etc. The themes of friendship, right and wrong, and kindness presented are sure to plant seeds and start conversations with your readers!
September 12, 2019
Polly and Buster weren't supposed to be friends on account of monsters and witches not getting along. But their friendship just tugs at your heartstrings. Polly is insecure about her inability to cast spells, she seems to believe that the reason the words swim across the page for her is due to not focusing as hard as the rest of her classmates. As a speech pathologist, it was pretty clear to me that she's dyslexic, but for a young reader, this wasn't really explained as clearly as I would've hoped. Maybe this is addressed in the next book, but I really wished that she would've received some help from her teacher Miss Spinnaker, who reads as a kind and understanding teacher and would've been the perfect person to help Polly with her dyslexia.
And Buster, the kind-hearted feelings monster who illustrates that having and expressing feelings are okay. That being teased and bullied is not okay and the importance of standing up for your friend. Although Polly initially was lured by the promise of friendship with one of the popular kids, she begins to realize that Buster's is a friendship worth fighting for.
Not only is the story a testament to the power of friendship and the importance of standing up for one another, it also weaves in some pretty heavy topics from the times of segregation and during World War II when the Jewish people were persecuted and forced to wear identifying badges. Rippin does present these with great care and gears them toward the attended audiences age. I can really see the story being used for classroom discussions on these topics. Happily, the author and publisher have included numerous discussion questions, teacher tips and games, and activities on their website for teachers to use in conjunction with telling the story. I'm looking forward to reading Polly and Buster and The Mystery of the Magic Stones next.
*Review copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
And Buster, the kind-hearted feelings monster who illustrates that having and expressing feelings are okay. That being teased and bullied is not okay and the importance of standing up for your friend. Although Polly initially was lured by the promise of friendship with one of the popular kids, she begins to realize that Buster's is a friendship worth fighting for.
Not only is the story a testament to the power of friendship and the importance of standing up for one another, it also weaves in some pretty heavy topics from the times of segregation and during World War II when the Jewish people were persecuted and forced to wear identifying badges. Rippin does present these with great care and gears them toward the attended audiences age. I can really see the story being used for classroom discussions on these topics. Happily, the author and publisher have included numerous discussion questions, teacher tips and games, and activities on their website for teachers to use in conjunction with telling the story. I'm looking forward to reading Polly and Buster and The Mystery of the Magic Stones next.
*Review copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
July 20, 2023
Such a beautiful story about being true to yourself and standing up for what you believe in. Great for conversations around emotional regulation and anxiety. Perfect for readers 6 and up.
March 9, 2023
Such a sweet story with really subtle references to anxiety and dyslexia. Lovely way to discuss racism and friendship. Thoroughly enjoyed this tale. Not sure if it’s available outside Australia but suitable
for children who love Isadora Moon but want something longer.
for children who love Isadora Moon but want something longer.
March 29, 2022
This book was written very well! My 7 year old loved and immediately asked to start the next book!
I love that it opened up lots of topics about bullying, friendships, sticking up for what you believe in!
I love that it opened up lots of topics about bullying, friendships, sticking up for what you believe in!
March 6, 2020
"Polly și Buster. Vrăjitoarea rebelă & Monstrul sentimental" este o carte minunată pentru copii și preadolescenți, care poate fi citită cu plăcere la orice vârstă, întrucât ne vorbește despre una dintre marile comori care există pe lume – prietenia.
Autoarea Sally Rippin conturează o lume magică, populată de vrăjitoare și monștri. Aceste două rase magice atât de diferite se privesc unii pe alții cu multă reținere, ba pe alocuri chiar cu ură. Deși împart același oraș, vrăjitoarele și monștrii rar se amestecă, învață la școli diferite și au destule prejudecăți unii față de alții.
Polly este o mică vrăjitoare care trăiește alături de mama ei și de sora mai mare, Winifred. Tatăl fetelor a pierit într-un accident minier, în care și-au pierdut viața mai mulți membri ai comunității. Polly își dorește mult să fie o vrăjitoare ca toate celelalte, însă ea are dificultăți de învățare: nu se poate concentra niciodată suficient la ora de poțiuni, atenția îi e distrasă ușor și uneori are impresia că literele dansează pe foaie. Acesta este motivul principal pentru care colegii săi nu o înțeleg și, cel mai adesea, nu o acceptă. Polly visează să fie populară și să se priceapă mai bine la vrăji. Ea are o fire artistică și talent la desen. Cel mai bun prieten al ei, încă din copilărie, este vecinul de alături, monstrul pe nume Buster. Nici el nu se încadrează în tiparul rezervat monștrilor: este foarte sentimental și asta se vede. La propriu. Când Buster experimentează sentimente diferite, înfățișarea sa se schimbă: e mare și strălucitor atunci când e fericit, dar devine mic și cenușiu când e trist, de exemplu. El încearcă să ascundă asta de ceilalți monștri, care l-ar lua în râs pentru sensibilitatea sa.
Cei doi copii magici stau de obicei de vorbă într-un copac dintre curțile lor după ore și se simt foarte fericiți unul în compania celuilalt, dar trebuie să facă din asta un secret. Societatea nu vede cu ochi buni prietenia dintre vrăjitoare și monștri.
V-am facut curiosi? Mai multe, aici: https://www.delicateseliterare.ro/pol...
Autoarea Sally Rippin conturează o lume magică, populată de vrăjitoare și monștri. Aceste două rase magice atât de diferite se privesc unii pe alții cu multă reținere, ba pe alocuri chiar cu ură. Deși împart același oraș, vrăjitoarele și monștrii rar se amestecă, învață la școli diferite și au destule prejudecăți unii față de alții.
Polly este o mică vrăjitoare care trăiește alături de mama ei și de sora mai mare, Winifred. Tatăl fetelor a pierit într-un accident minier, în care și-au pierdut viața mai mulți membri ai comunității. Polly își dorește mult să fie o vrăjitoare ca toate celelalte, însă ea are dificultăți de învățare: nu se poate concentra niciodată suficient la ora de poțiuni, atenția îi e distrasă ușor și uneori are impresia că literele dansează pe foaie. Acesta este motivul principal pentru care colegii săi nu o înțeleg și, cel mai adesea, nu o acceptă. Polly visează să fie populară și să se priceapă mai bine la vrăji. Ea are o fire artistică și talent la desen. Cel mai bun prieten al ei, încă din copilărie, este vecinul de alături, monstrul pe nume Buster. Nici el nu se încadrează în tiparul rezervat monștrilor: este foarte sentimental și asta se vede. La propriu. Când Buster experimentează sentimente diferite, înfățișarea sa se schimbă: e mare și strălucitor atunci când e fericit, dar devine mic și cenușiu când e trist, de exemplu. El încearcă să ascundă asta de ceilalți monștri, care l-ar lua în râs pentru sensibilitatea sa.
Cei doi copii magici stau de obicei de vorbă într-un copac dintre curțile lor după ore și se simt foarte fericiți unul în compania celuilalt, dar trebuie să facă din asta un secret. Societatea nu vede cu ochi buni prietenia dintre vrăjitoare și monștri.
V-am facut curiosi? Mai multe, aici: https://www.delicateseliterare.ro/pol...
October 6, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
This was my absolute FAVOURITE book when I was ages 9 and 10. It was my comfort book as well. I connected so much to the characters. The plot was interesting and it showed racism and other real issues we have now in a child friendly way. Every child should read this book.
This was my absolute FAVOURITE book when I was ages 9 and 10. It was my comfort book as well. I connected so much to the characters. The plot was interesting and it showed racism and other real issues we have now in a child friendly way. Every child should read this book.
May 31, 2017
I was happy when I heard Sally Rippin was coming out with a middle fiction book. When I heard her read from the book and saw some of the illustrations I was excited. Then I read it. I was totally bowled over. I knew Sally could write but I'd never seen anything of this calibre from her before. This book goes beyond her beautiful writing and innate ability to construct perfect turns of phrase.
What struck me most was the depth of the story. On one level it's as simple as the Billie B Brown stories that Sally is well known for, but beneath the surface, "Polly and Buster" bubbles with issues that our children, and society as a whole, are (unfortunately) still dealing with in 2017. When Buster (the gorgeous feelings monster) is forced to ride at the back of the bus because Witches & Warlocks don't mix with Monsters I had a total "Rosa Parks Moment". I was crushed when Polly chooses the wrong friends (although I totally get how it happens) and was virtually punching the air for joy when Polly saves Buster from the stupid inflamed masses.
It really was more of an emotional rollercoaster than I'd expected from both Sally and a book aimed at this age group. Now, don't get me wrong, most 8+ reading this will enjoy the story and recognise the themes of friendship, honesty, believing in yourself and being your own person. But part of Sally's talent is being able to write for an 8 year old mind whilst managing to beautifully and subtlety explore much larger and darker issues. Magnificent.
Although I recommend it to 8+ I think it would be totally appropriate to read it to a 5+. Lots of illustration (by the talented Sally) and such a strong story line that will appeal to all ages.
L-J Lacey
Three Four Knock on the Door
Independent Children's Bookshop
PS: M or W? Always, always M!
What struck me most was the depth of the story. On one level it's as simple as the Billie B Brown stories that Sally is well known for, but beneath the surface, "Polly and Buster" bubbles with issues that our children, and society as a whole, are (unfortunately) still dealing with in 2017. When Buster (the gorgeous feelings monster) is forced to ride at the back of the bus because Witches & Warlocks don't mix with Monsters I had a total "Rosa Parks Moment". I was crushed when Polly chooses the wrong friends (although I totally get how it happens) and was virtually punching the air for joy when Polly saves Buster from the stupid inflamed masses.
It really was more of an emotional rollercoaster than I'd expected from both Sally and a book aimed at this age group. Now, don't get me wrong, most 8+ reading this will enjoy the story and recognise the themes of friendship, honesty, believing in yourself and being your own person. But part of Sally's talent is being able to write for an 8 year old mind whilst managing to beautifully and subtlety explore much larger and darker issues. Magnificent.
Although I recommend it to 8+ I think it would be totally appropriate to read it to a 5+. Lots of illustration (by the talented Sally) and such a strong story line that will appeal to all ages.
L-J Lacey
Three Four Knock on the Door
Independent Children's Bookshop
PS: M or W? Always, always M!
February 5, 2021
Polly’s best friend is a monster. That goes against the grain. Witches are not friends with monsters everyone knows that. Polly is ridiculed and bullied because she is friends with Buster. She denies her friendship and Buster is heartbroken.
Who are Polly’s real friends? What does Polly do to fix the mess?
I enjoyed the story of two different friends. The book addresses diversity, friendship and loyalty subtlety and the pace of the story makes this a fun read.
Recommended for 8+. The themes warrant discussion
Who are Polly’s real friends? What does Polly do to fix the mess?
I enjoyed the story of two different friends. The book addresses diversity, friendship and loyalty subtlety and the pace of the story makes this a fun read.
Recommended for 8+. The themes warrant discussion
October 27, 2024
Sally Rippin certainly has a gift with words! Polly is a witch and Buster is a monster and in this world these two are not allowed to be friends. Polly and Buster share a special bond that despite what anyone says or does cannot be broken. These characters are the true definition of what friends should be. They also show how tolerance and compassion for each other, even though we are all different works. Buster is the monster that everyone needs in their corner and Polly is the witch that keeps things interesting.
November 4, 2017
My daughter and I enjoyed reading this book together. It felt a potion made by a young Harry Potter with a fair dose of new age emotional resilience and managing feelings thrown in the pot. Light and fluffy. Perfect fare for before bedtime or to read to your Year 2 class. Polly and Buster's friendship saves each of them at different stages of the novel.
August 25, 2017
A fun story with great messages about friendship, loyalty and individual differences. Great for middle primary book discussion groups. Can't wait for the sequel.
July 19, 2019
Chiar daca este o carte pentru copii putem invata multe lucruri din relatia de prietenie a lui Polly si Buster. Recomand cartea cu mare drag copiilor❤
April 27, 2022
Romanul de față este mai mult decât o lectură dedicată copiilor, este o poveste care cu siguranță i-ar pune pe gânduri și pe adulți. Ea tratează niște subiecte actuale care, de regulă, sunt ignorate, iar persoanele în cauză suferă din această pricină. Vrăjitoarea Polly nu are prieteni! Ea prezintă dificultăți de învățare și de integrare.
Povestea ei este una comună, întrucât mulți copii au exact aceleași proleme. Au impresia că literele dansează sau materiile și temele sunt complexe.
Adulții de lângă ei au un rol esențial în viața lor. Din nefericire, mulți îi compară sau au diverse prejudecăți, precum toxicitatea crescută rezultată din prietenia unei vrăjitoare cu un monstru.
În roman, domnișoara Spinnaker are rolul de dascăl dedicat care știe cum să se apropie de copii și să le vadă calitățile. Polly este foarte talentată la desen, de exemplu.
Buster este un monstru sentimental, care se teme de apropierea de alți monștri, iar atunci când la o excursie cu clasa o vede pe Polly, este copleșit de bucurie și devine mare și strălucitor. Colegii lui de breaslă au un comportament oribil față de el, iar Polly face o vrajă foarte puternică din dorința de a-l salva pe Buster. La emoțiile pozitive crește în dimensiune și strălucește, iar la emoțiile negative se face mic și cenușiu. Exact în aceeași manieră oamenii suportă consecințele emoțiilor lor prin schimbări de atitudine și comportament.
Practic nu suntem cu nimic mai diferiți față de acel monstruleț neacceptat de colegii lui! Lui îi este frică de reacția colectivului la exteriorizarea sentimentelor, așa cum multor oameni se întâmplă.
Polly este și ea pusă într-o situație dificilă după evenimentul de la muzeu, fiindcă începe să se împrietenească cu o colegă numită Malorie. Colega îi oferă un cadou valoros vrăjitoarei, dar Polly știe că dacă Malorie ar afla că cel mai bun prieten al ei este monstrul sentimental, prietenia lor s-ar duce pe apa sâmbetei.
Lucrurile o iau razna și mai mult după ce Malorie începe să spună lucruri îngrozitoare și neadevărate despre monștri, iar micuța vrăjitoare este pusă în fața unei alegeri dificile...
Am impresia că romanul de față explică într-un mod foarte simplu diverse probleme actuale (acceptarea socială, exprimarea emoțiilor, curajul de a fi diferit, dislexia, etc.) prin prisma unor personaje și întâmplări fictive, pentru a deschide ochii oamenilor și a copiilor asupra acestor aspecte.
Sunt convinsă că romanul ar veni în ajutorul unui copil cu probleme de integrare, de învățare sau timid. L-ar face să înțeleagă că nu e singur și mai ales că la un moment dat va da de oameni precum domnișoara Spinnaker care-l vor înțelege și aprecia pentru firea lui autentică.
Doritorii pot achiziționa cartea de aici!
June 5, 2019
Spoilers below...
Polly and Buster have been best friends forever. But lately their parents have told them that they are too old to be playing with each other. Monsters don’t play with witches and witches don’t play with monsters.
On a school trip to the museum one day, Polly sees Buster’s monster class is on his own school trip. Buster waves out to Polly, but she ignores him while she is with her classmates. This quickly changes as Buster’s secret is revealed. He is a feeling monster, and he shrank when Polly shunned him, hurting his feelings.
Buster’s own classmates laugh and tease him until Polly sticks up for him, firing a spell at them that is a surprise to everyone. She’s usually useless at spells and the one she uses is usually far too advanced for one so young.
The popular girl in class (Malorie) believes Polly attacked the monsters in defense of her classmates, and she suddenly wants to be best friends with her. Polly enjoys the popularity but the whole event has triggered an explosion of anger and deeper mistrust between the monster and witch communities.
Polly has to choose between her oldest friend and her new one, and wishes her beloved dad was still alive to guide her decision. She holds the coloured stones he left her in her hand, not knowing how powerful they are or that she is the answer to the widening gap between monsters and witches.
This is the first part in the Polly and Buster Series. I love the small hardback format and the illustrations throughout. Many of us can relate to Polly’s school dilemmas about friends and making difficult decisions that maybe hurt those around you. Polly and Buster is one of my favourite series for this younger age group. It’s perfect for those who are keen on magic and witches and conflict but are not quite ready for the Harry Potter series.
Polly and Buster have been best friends forever. But lately their parents have told them that they are too old to be playing with each other. Monsters don’t play with witches and witches don’t play with monsters.
On a school trip to the museum one day, Polly sees Buster’s monster class is on his own school trip. Buster waves out to Polly, but she ignores him while she is with her classmates. This quickly changes as Buster’s secret is revealed. He is a feeling monster, and he shrank when Polly shunned him, hurting his feelings.
Buster’s own classmates laugh and tease him until Polly sticks up for him, firing a spell at them that is a surprise to everyone. She’s usually useless at spells and the one she uses is usually far too advanced for one so young.
The popular girl in class (Malorie) believes Polly attacked the monsters in defense of her classmates, and she suddenly wants to be best friends with her. Polly enjoys the popularity but the whole event has triggered an explosion of anger and deeper mistrust between the monster and witch communities.
Polly has to choose between her oldest friend and her new one, and wishes her beloved dad was still alive to guide her decision. She holds the coloured stones he left her in her hand, not knowing how powerful they are or that she is the answer to the widening gap between monsters and witches.
This is the first part in the Polly and Buster Series. I love the small hardback format and the illustrations throughout. Many of us can relate to Polly’s school dilemmas about friends and making difficult decisions that maybe hurt those around you. Polly and Buster is one of my favourite series for this younger age group. It’s perfect for those who are keen on magic and witches and conflict but are not quite ready for the Harry Potter series.
June 5, 2017
From the very first pages readers will relate to the struggles that Polly experiences in class. No matter how hard she tries she just can’t do what other witches her age can do; her spells are mixed up and she makes lots of mistakes. It doesn’t help that her older sister is a perfect witch. She doesn’t have any witch friends but she does have a wonderful relationship with her neighbour Buster, a monster who has a unique ability to grow or shrink depending on his emotions. Sadly, in their town witches and monsters are separated so they can only be friends in private. When Polly sees Buster being bullied she casts a Protector spell and the full extent of her magical abilities is revealed. Unfortunately Polly learns that being noticed and famous isn’t as great as it might appear, especially when it compromises her friendship with Buster. This is the first book in a new series from Sally Rippin and although the characters are witches and monsters many young readers will identify with the themes of true friendship, peer pressure and the importance of being true to yourself.
Suitable for 8+ - friends, magic, bullying, monsters, peer pressure, discrimination, prejudice
Suitable for 8+ - friends, magic, bullying, monsters, peer pressure, discrimination, prejudice
May 29, 2017
This book is destined to become a classic. Polly and Buster is a beautiful tale of friendship between two people who shouldn't really be friends. Polly is a Witch and Buster is a Monster. They have grown up together and are now secret friends because they are two parts of the one whole. When their secret is exposed, what will they do? How will they handle it?
I found this book to be very moving as Polly comes to an awareness of her world. She has some tough decisions to make that could very well affect her future, as well as her best friend Buster.
I feel like my words can't do justice to the way I felt both during and after reading this book. I think it will become an instant favourite with kids. It has stunning black and white illustrations throughout (this is a first for author Sally who has penned them herself). It is a stunning little gift book for kids 8-12.
I found this book to be very moving as Polly comes to an awareness of her world. She has some tough decisions to make that could very well affect her future, as well as her best friend Buster.
I feel like my words can't do justice to the way I felt both during and after reading this book. I think it will become an instant favourite with kids. It has stunning black and white illustrations throughout (this is a first for author Sally who has penned them herself). It is a stunning little gift book for kids 8-12.
November 13, 2019
A delightful story for middle primary readers that deals with a range of complex issues typical of the age group including bullying, peer pressure, risk taking, friendship and being true to yourself. Artfully portrayed through the frowned upon friendship between a witch and a monster, Sally Rippin avoids sentimentality or sermon like messages by harnessing the fantasy characters to provide humour and tension to tell this story. Good fun as Polly messes up spells and Buster gets (literally) carried away by his feelings. The first in a series that is sure to be popular.
Rippin has also lavishly adorned the book with charcoal pencil drawings of all things witchy and magical, illustrative text and emotive illustrations.
Rippin has also lavishly adorned the book with charcoal pencil drawings of all things witchy and magical, illustrative text and emotive illustrations.
January 16, 2020
I absolutely adored this book! It's a precious story about a struggling witch and a feelings monster who are best friends. Both witch and monster feel different from their peers-- Polly's dyslexia makes school difficult and Buster's feels things deeply when monsters are supposed to be unfeeling. The two of them only find comfort in each other, but witches aren't supposed to be friends with monsters. This is a wonderful book that explores so many topics in a way that's easy to understand and super fun! The spacing, illustrations, and different fonts also make this book a bit easier to read for struggling readers and fun for everyone to read- struggling or not. I loved the writing style and really everything about this book. I highly recommend it!
May 31, 2020
What a delightful series! I won the whole trilogy from Kane Miller EDC Publishing and am immensely grateful to them for the sheer delight and pure adventure I had while I simply ingested this middle-grade series in one sitting. This book introduces us to Polly (witch) and Buster (monster) and their secret friendship in the village where witches and monsters don’t mix. All 3 books teach valuable lessons of friendship, tolerance, diversity, kindness, standing up to bullies and for what is right in a fun way, using child-friendly language. Readers are having so much fun following Polly and Buster that they don’t realize they’re learning. Even though the publisher recommends this series for ages 7-10, I highly recommend it to anyone who just wants to enjoy a great story.
July 24, 2021
Primul volum, intitulat ”Vrăjitoarea rebelă & Monstrul sentimental” surprinde prietenia dintre Polly și Buster care, deși aparțin unor medii diferite care nu au voie să se amestece, au copilărit împreună și se înțeleg foarte bine. Polly e o vrăjitoare care nu prea se pricepe la vrăji, ceea ce nu o face prea populară la școală, dimpotrivă nu are niciun prieten, iar Buster are un secret pe care vrea să-l țină ascuns de ceilalți monștri. Își schimbă culoarea și mărimea în funcție de starea sufletească pe care o are, și acest lucru ar fi rușinos pentru un monstru care se presupune că ar fi fioros și rece.
Recenzia întreagă aici: https://booksmeanpowerfforbrain.home.....
Recenzia întreagă aici: https://booksmeanpowerfforbrain.home.....
July 19, 2017
'Standing up for a friend is being a hero, Polly. No matter who that friend might be. Witch or monster.' Polly the witch and Buster the feelings monster have a special friendship, even in a town where witches and monsters do not interact. Beautiful junior novel celebrating friendship, acceptance and standing up for your own beliefs. Sally Rippin is a fabulous children's author who understands her audience, her characters are truly relatable; witch Polly finds it hard to read her spell book and has a little problem with anger. Buster is a feelings monster who shrinks in size when bad things happen.
Perfect for a year 3-4 class novel, a winner!
Perfect for a year 3-4 class novel, a winner!
April 24, 2018
Been reading this with my kiddos. (Ages 7 and 9)
The dialogue given to spell out families and rivalries and subtle bullying and heartfelt friendship is spot on amazing. Which brings all the more heartache when friendships are tested.
Also a great springboard to discuss not just bullying but systemic discrimination. “What would you do?” “Why is she finding it hard to do the right thing?” “How could she realise what she’s doing is not the right thing?”
But even without this extra level, this book is full of charm and beauty and friendship. 11/10.
The dialogue given to spell out families and rivalries and subtle bullying and heartfelt friendship is spot on amazing. Which brings all the more heartache when friendships are tested.
Also a great springboard to discuss not just bullying but systemic discrimination. “What would you do?” “Why is she finding it hard to do the right thing?” “How could she realise what she’s doing is not the right thing?”
But even without this extra level, this book is full of charm and beauty and friendship. 11/10.
July 2, 2018
I got the translated edition from the publishing house for free, but write a review of my own accord.
This was such a cute read!
I've always liked witches, and just looking at this I know it is a book I'd love to read growing up. Even so, I rather liked it.
It had a perfect mix of child like innocense and adult story telling.
The writing was good and easy to follow, and the story was on point.
I really want to read the next book as well, as there are so many important subplots in this book!
This was such a cute read!
I've always liked witches, and just looking at this I know it is a book I'd love to read growing up. Even so, I rather liked it.
It had a perfect mix of child like innocense and adult story telling.
The writing was good and easy to follow, and the story was on point.
I really want to read the next book as well, as there are so many important subplots in this book!
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