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A Reluctant Witch's Guide to Magic
Kiki's Delivery Service meets Cressida Cowell in this "exciting and imaginative" ( Kirkus ) middle grade fantasy about a non-magical girl who discovers she does, indeed , have magic—and she must choose between two warring witch covens or she'll explode! Willa lives in the Wild, in a city squished between two warring witch covens. The non-magical Wildians spend their days dodging wayward spells—from raining frogs to dancing chickens—all because of the witch war raging around them. Being stuck in the middle of a magical war means the Wildians hate witches—none more so than Willa, whose parents were turned into clouds by a misplaced curse. Willa spends her days with her army of cats, dreaming of an end to the war and her parents’ return. So when Willa is accused of being a witch after witnesses catch her accidentally stopping a spell midair, she's certain there's been a mistake. She can't be a witch! Yet Willa is dragged to the palace, where she's given one year to master her volatile magic and choose a coven to join. If she doesn’t, she’ll explode. But her attempts to control her magic are interrupted when a rogue witch begins nefarious spells against the Ordinary Folk. What does the witch want and what does it have to do with Willa? She must unravel the mystery to save her city, her friends, and herself.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published July 5, 2022
11 people are currently reading
2239 people want to read
About the author
Shivaun Plozza
9 books136 followersShivaun Plozza is an award-winning author of books for children and young adults. Her debut novel, Frankie, was a CBCA Notable Book and won a number of awards, including the Davitt Awards and a commendation from the Victorian Premier’s Literary Award. Her second novel, Tin Heart, sold in three foreign territories, received two starred reviews, and was nominated to ALA’S Best Fiction for Young Adults list. Her debut middle-grade novel, The Boy, the Wolf, and the Stars, is forthcoming in 2020 from HMH Books for Young Readers and Penguin Random House Australia. She is a frequent contributor to anthologies, and when she is not writing she works as an editor and manuscript assessor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
February 3, 2022
Willa lives in the Wild, in a city squished between two warring witch covens. The non-magical Wildians spend their days dodging wayward spells--from raining frogs to dancing chickens--all because of the witch war raging around them.
Being stuck in the middle of a magical war means the Wildians hate witches--none more so than Willa, whose parents were turned into clouds by a misplaced curse. Willa spends her days with her army of cats, dreaming of an end to the war and her parents' return.
So when Willa is accused of being a witch after witnesses catch her accidentally stopping a spell midair, she's certain there's been a mistake. She can't be a witch! Yet Willa is dragged to the palace, where she's given one year to master her volatile magic and choose a coven to join. If she doesn't, she'll explode.
But her attempts to control her magic are interrupted when a rogue witch begins nefarious spells against the Ordinary Folk. What does the witch want and what does it have to do with Willa? She must unravel the mystery to save her city, her friends, and herself.
This was absolutely BRILLIANT. Hilarious, heartwarming, mysterious, adventurous, fun, exciting… the list could go on.
Plozza’s characters are unique and lovable and it was hard not to get invested in their journey throughout the novel. Laced with magic and adventure this book is fun and keeps you on the edge of your seat but at the same time teaches important messages about friendship, belonging, feeling different, perseverance and bravery.
What a wee gem of a read that I have already preordered to put in my classroom bookshelf because I will insist that my teenage pupils read this one! Keep writing Plozza!
Being stuck in the middle of a magical war means the Wildians hate witches--none more so than Willa, whose parents were turned into clouds by a misplaced curse. Willa spends her days with her army of cats, dreaming of an end to the war and her parents' return.
So when Willa is accused of being a witch after witnesses catch her accidentally stopping a spell midair, she's certain there's been a mistake. She can't be a witch! Yet Willa is dragged to the palace, where she's given one year to master her volatile magic and choose a coven to join. If she doesn't, she'll explode.
But her attempts to control her magic are interrupted when a rogue witch begins nefarious spells against the Ordinary Folk. What does the witch want and what does it have to do with Willa? She must unravel the mystery to save her city, her friends, and herself.
This was absolutely BRILLIANT. Hilarious, heartwarming, mysterious, adventurous, fun, exciting… the list could go on.
Plozza’s characters are unique and lovable and it was hard not to get invested in their journey throughout the novel. Laced with magic and adventure this book is fun and keeps you on the edge of your seat but at the same time teaches important messages about friendship, belonging, feeling different, perseverance and bravery.
What a wee gem of a read that I have already preordered to put in my classroom bookshelf because I will insist that my teenage pupils read this one! Keep writing Plozza!
June 19, 2022
"A Reluctant Witch's Guide to Magic" is a book I wish I'd had as a kid, when I often felt like a disappointment, like I was never good enough. Willa would have been a heroine to my younger self. Now, I find her helping to heal parts of my grown-up self that sometimes still feel misunderstood.
I highly recommend this sweet, magical, compelling book to people of all ages -- people who sometimes feel alone, who feel like no one gets them, people who are grieving, people who are struggling to know who they are. If you know a child or a grown-up who identifies with Willa, this book would be great for them to read.
I liked the mystery aspect of the book and I think it's age-appropriate. I love how Willa has cats who follow her wherever she goes. And I do believe the book left us enough hints that another installment is coming? Looking forward to reading what adventures Willa, Marceline and Gish go on!
Special shout-out to the magical book that is also one of the characters in "A Reluctant Witch's Guide to Magic.”
“The Long and Thoroughly Ordinary Tales of Pearl B. Purcep, an Explorer of Little Note,” you make me laugh!
I highly recommend this sweet, magical, compelling book to people of all ages -- people who sometimes feel alone, who feel like no one gets them, people who are grieving, people who are struggling to know who they are. If you know a child or a grown-up who identifies with Willa, this book would be great for them to read.
I liked the mystery aspect of the book and I think it's age-appropriate. I love how Willa has cats who follow her wherever she goes. And I do believe the book left us enough hints that another installment is coming? Looking forward to reading what adventures Willa, Marceline and Gish go on!
Special shout-out to the magical book that is also one of the characters in "A Reluctant Witch's Guide to Magic.”
“The Long and Thoroughly Ordinary Tales of Pearl B. Purcep, an Explorer of Little Note,” you make me laugh!
May 25, 2022
A Reluctant Witch’s Guide to Magic is a funny and quirky middle grade fantasy book about a young girl who lives in the middle of two warring witch covens. She hates witches with passions because they turned her parents into clouds. But she learns that she is actually a witch, and she will have to choose a coven or explode! Willa is trying to learn how to control her unruly magic when a rogue witch starts cursing people left and right. She’ll have to discover the identity of the mystery witch and stop them if she wants to save her city, her friends, and herself.
This was a fun book filled with quirky characters! The magic was goofy and silly, but I still enjoyed it. I think that it was lighter read, and more geared toward younger middle schoolers or anyone who just wants something a little bit brighter. But it still tackled some pretty deep themes. I think the book really showcased how quickly people can turn on each other. And also the importance of telling the whole side of every story.
I loved how the author balanced telling an interesting story with sharing some important truths. Willa was such a relatable character, and I felt so bad for her as she was put into this really horrible situation. I loved her friends and how she learned the importance of friendship. I think it was nice not to have any unnecessary romance plots thrown in either which I appreciate. It was about the kids’ friendships with each other and how they had each other’s backs.
This was a fun read! However, I do want to add that I disagreed with some of the themes of this book. For example, Willa is told throughout the book that nothing is her fault and she just needs to accept herself. And while in this case, it makes sense, it might be confusing for impressionable middle school kids in different situations. Also, I was concerned with the lack of responsible, adult figures. I am all for showing how kids can change the world, but I think it’s important to have some trustworthy adults in the story, and sadly, in this book, there were none.
So while I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a fun, quirky read, I would recommend parents reading through it first, so they can talk to their kids about it.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
This was a fun book filled with quirky characters! The magic was goofy and silly, but I still enjoyed it. I think that it was lighter read, and more geared toward younger middle schoolers or anyone who just wants something a little bit brighter. But it still tackled some pretty deep themes. I think the book really showcased how quickly people can turn on each other. And also the importance of telling the whole side of every story.
I loved how the author balanced telling an interesting story with sharing some important truths. Willa was such a relatable character, and I felt so bad for her as she was put into this really horrible situation. I loved her friends and how she learned the importance of friendship. I think it was nice not to have any unnecessary romance plots thrown in either which I appreciate. It was about the kids’ friendships with each other and how they had each other’s backs.
This was a fun read! However, I do want to add that I disagreed with some of the themes of this book. For example, Willa is told throughout the book that nothing is her fault and she just needs to accept herself. And while in this case, it makes sense, it might be confusing for impressionable middle school kids in different situations. Also, I was concerned with the lack of responsible, adult figures. I am all for showing how kids can change the world, but I think it’s important to have some trustworthy adults in the story, and sadly, in this book, there were none.
So while I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a fun, quirky read, I would recommend parents reading through it first, so they can talk to their kids about it.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
July 31, 2022
Willa is an ordinary girl who lives in a city caught between two warring witch covens but Willa is most definitely NOT a witch, even though other people seem to think she is. Just because she gets that fizzy orange soda feeling in her body right before unexplained things happen around her doesn’t mean she’s a witch.
Until one day she’s told that she most definitely IS a witch, and worse, she has to choose one of the terrible and unappealing covens to join or else she’ll explode. But while Willa is trying to learn to control her magic and make an impossible choice, an unknown witch seems determined to influence Willa’s decision by causing harm and chaos all around her.
A Reluctant Witch's Guide to Magic by Shivaun Plozza was a fun and adventurous read, filled with lots of humor and heart. Willa is a smart and feisty heroine and it was so enjoyable to learn about the history of magic and how it works in her world through her eyes. Ultimately, this book is about the power of friendship and being true to yourself, which are each a type of magic in and of themselves.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me an advanced reader copy of this book for review.
Until one day she’s told that she most definitely IS a witch, and worse, she has to choose one of the terrible and unappealing covens to join or else she’ll explode. But while Willa is trying to learn to control her magic and make an impossible choice, an unknown witch seems determined to influence Willa’s decision by causing harm and chaos all around her.
A Reluctant Witch's Guide to Magic by Shivaun Plozza was a fun and adventurous read, filled with lots of humor and heart. Willa is a smart and feisty heroine and it was so enjoyable to learn about the history of magic and how it works in her world through her eyes. Ultimately, this book is about the power of friendship and being true to yourself, which are each a type of magic in and of themselves.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me an advanced reader copy of this book for review.
August 2, 2022
Main character Willa lives by herself in the Wild after her parents were cursed and floated away as clouds. She works for a nasty weaver, and does her best to behave acceptably, despite her body feeling a constant, fizzing possibility that she does her best to stamp down because she does not want to be mistaken for a witch. The Wild is situated between two warring witch covens, who have been fighting seemingly forever, and consequently has no tolerance for witches.
When Willa is mistakenly labelled as a witch, she’s taken in by the King to be trained in her magic so that in a year she can choose one of the factions to become a part of, rather than explode (which happens to unaffiliated and untrained witches).
I wish I had liked this more, especially as I had been looking forward to reading this. However, I found the the author’s tone frustrating, which often felt like it was aimed at six-year olds, despite the story being aimed at nine-twelve year olds. I tired quickly of the frequent mention of boogers and general infantile approach to what should have been a magical and fun story.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Clarion Books for this ARC in exchange for my review.
When Willa is mistakenly labelled as a witch, she’s taken in by the King to be trained in her magic so that in a year she can choose one of the factions to become a part of, rather than explode (which happens to unaffiliated and untrained witches).
I wish I had liked this more, especially as I had been looking forward to reading this. However, I found the the author’s tone frustrating, which often felt like it was aimed at six-year olds, despite the story being aimed at nine-twelve year olds. I tired quickly of the frequent mention of boogers and general infantile approach to what should have been a magical and fun story.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Clarion Books for this ARC in exchange for my review.
May 27, 2024
Interesting and fun main character and a fun and zany world and plot until, about three quarters of the way through, it seems like the author just got tired of the whole thing and decided, You know what, tying up loose ends is such a lame and old fashioned thing.
YOU CAN'T TELL ME HOW TO LIVE, HISTORY OF FICTION
I'M A GOOSE NOT A DUCK
I WILL QUACK FOR NO MAN
This was a really disappointing ending to what had been a fun romp. No psychological or moral truths to take away, no closure. (No reason to look into this author's other works.)
YOU CAN'T TELL ME HOW TO LIVE, HISTORY OF FICTION
I'M A GOOSE NOT A DUCK
I WILL QUACK FOR NO MAN
This was a really disappointing ending to what had been a fun romp. No psychological or moral truths to take away, no closure. (No reason to look into this author's other works.)
December 31, 2021
A really cute book about a young girl who has been told she's ordinary only to find out she has powers. But these powers come with a catch: she has to choose a coven by her 13th birthday or she'll explode! This was a really interesting world to dive into with Willa as an awesome main character and handful of great side characters. Can't wait to hopefully get more in this series!
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for providing me with an arc for an honest review!
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for providing me with an arc for an honest review!
July 24, 2022
I'd rate this a 2.5 rounded up. There is a lot to like in the silly humour and action of this book for younger readers. This starts with a familiar premise - someone who doesn't fit in, has to choose a side but doesn't want to, a likable and strong heroine who thinks she doesn't have powers but is actually much more impressive than anyone else, and two good friends who help her on her fantastical quest. A lot of people like these stories if they're done well.
Plozza has gone for the quirky, humorous take which I actually liked. Not all the humour worked perfectly for me, but I think the craziness was different and fun. I also liked Willa and Marceline's characters especially and thought they were worth the ride. The message that you need to be yourself isn't exactly original but it's a good one that should resonate with kids - a message like that doesn't get old.
So what could have made the book a bit better?
The message about being yourself was wrapped up in the riddle about the swan which Willa "realises" much after being told it and I felt it rang false as I thought it was pretty obvious. It wasn't exactly much of a riddle and I thought many ordinary kids would think it was a bit stupid that Willa took so long to figure it out. Minor complaint, but still it made me think Willa was a bit stupid when I wanted to admire her more.
But really, probably what annoyed me more was that the overwriting and repetition. Willa seemed to be doing the same things over and over and there was a lot of repetition in the writing. This seemed to inhibit us seeing her really grow as a character as instead it seemed like she was just doing things over and over.
The next was towards the ending - the reveals which I won't spoil here - came out in a tumble and broke the rule of "show don't tell". We really have far too much explaining of why everything happens and not enough building up of it and the reader working it out or it being shown in a cool action/interaction scene. A lot of fun and tension is lost that way.
Plozza has gone for the quirky, humorous take which I actually liked. Not all the humour worked perfectly for me, but I think the craziness was different and fun. I also liked Willa and Marceline's characters especially and thought they were worth the ride. The message that you need to be yourself isn't exactly original but it's a good one that should resonate with kids - a message like that doesn't get old.
So what could have made the book a bit better?
The message about being yourself was wrapped up in the riddle about the swan which Willa "realises" much after being told it and I felt it rang false as I thought it was pretty obvious. It wasn't exactly much of a riddle and I thought many ordinary kids would think it was a bit stupid that Willa took so long to figure it out. Minor complaint, but still it made me think Willa was a bit stupid when I wanted to admire her more.
But really, probably what annoyed me more was that the overwriting and repetition. Willa seemed to be doing the same things over and over and there was a lot of repetition in the writing. This seemed to inhibit us seeing her really grow as a character as instead it seemed like she was just doing things over and over.
The next was towards the ending - the reveals which I won't spoil here - came out in a tumble and broke the rule of "show don't tell". We really have far too much explaining of why everything happens and not enough building up of it and the reader working it out or it being shown in a cool action/interaction scene. A lot of fun and tension is lost that way.
April 24, 2022
I ended up not finishing this book - it started out so great and I was so excited to read a fantasy book - but it was pretty much like watching a cartoon and the similar things happening to this girl over and over again - way too repetitive for me. So…onto my next read - something with something I can really get into it.
March 18, 2022
What worked:
Reluctant witch is an appropriate title since Willa is slow to accept her magical ability. Despite witnessing her thoughts causing things to happen, she doesn’t want to stay in the king’s castle to learn about magic. In one year, she’ll be forced to decide which of the two covens will become her home, and choosing from opposing sides isn’t unique in children’s novels. However, in this case, Willa will blow up if she doesn’t make a choice, and that is truly peculiar and imaginative. The two witch covens have been at war for years, casting spells back and forth at each other, with an area of Ordinary Folk living in between. The focus of the plot shifts from Willa’s problem to mysterious spells being cast directly at Ordinaries, a violation of the laws of the land.
Willa is an orphan, and she dreams of being reunited with her parents, victims of a spell that changed them into clouds. This is a bit strange since most of the memories describe them as being critical and trying to suppress her undiscovered magic. Willa hasn’t felt like she belonged with anyone since her parents left, so she’s excited to meet Gish, a messenger for the king’s clerk, and Marceline, a princess looking for adventure. Together, the story describes their efforts and escapades to find the rogue witch terrorizing the Ordinary Folk and to help Willa. There must be a way for her to not choose one of the creepy, disgusting covens without exploding when she turns thirteen.
The author makes humor a big part of the descriptions. The opening scene finds frogs literally raining down from the sky, and other spells cause people and animals to dance until they drop or capture their voices in floating bubbles. The king is frightened of magic and is often found behind plants hiding from his constituents. The prince takes over and becomes obsessed with finding witches which makes him an irritating character, if not an actual antagonist. Willa searches the library for help with her magical problem, but a mischievous, rogue book constantly torments her and thwarts her efforts. Spell-casting by the two covens involves dancing, spinning around, and repeating nonsense words, and Willa’s attempts frequently result in unpredictable incantations. An inner voice of wild magic wants to be released, so Willa frequently has mental clashes as she struggles to keep the power under control.
What didn’t work as well:
The silliness of the magic sometimes overshadows more important moments. It’s awkward to have critical confrontations or investigations while strange-looking characters or errant spells are involved. However, the whimsy and playfulness of the book are keys to its appeal. It has a clear, engaging conflict that is enhanced by the author’s wit.
The Final Verdict:
You can’t make a swan quack. Learning to be who you’re meant to be, not what others try to make you, is an important lesson. The mystery of a rogue witch stirring up war and the main character who might explode offer compelling problems to entertain readers. The addition of humor is icing on the cake. I highly recommend you give this book a shot.
Reluctant witch is an appropriate title since Willa is slow to accept her magical ability. Despite witnessing her thoughts causing things to happen, she doesn’t want to stay in the king’s castle to learn about magic. In one year, she’ll be forced to decide which of the two covens will become her home, and choosing from opposing sides isn’t unique in children’s novels. However, in this case, Willa will blow up if she doesn’t make a choice, and that is truly peculiar and imaginative. The two witch covens have been at war for years, casting spells back and forth at each other, with an area of Ordinary Folk living in between. The focus of the plot shifts from Willa’s problem to mysterious spells being cast directly at Ordinaries, a violation of the laws of the land.
Willa is an orphan, and she dreams of being reunited with her parents, victims of a spell that changed them into clouds. This is a bit strange since most of the memories describe them as being critical and trying to suppress her undiscovered magic. Willa hasn’t felt like she belonged with anyone since her parents left, so she’s excited to meet Gish, a messenger for the king’s clerk, and Marceline, a princess looking for adventure. Together, the story describes their efforts and escapades to find the rogue witch terrorizing the Ordinary Folk and to help Willa. There must be a way for her to not choose one of the creepy, disgusting covens without exploding when she turns thirteen.
The author makes humor a big part of the descriptions. The opening scene finds frogs literally raining down from the sky, and other spells cause people and animals to dance until they drop or capture their voices in floating bubbles. The king is frightened of magic and is often found behind plants hiding from his constituents. The prince takes over and becomes obsessed with finding witches which makes him an irritating character, if not an actual antagonist. Willa searches the library for help with her magical problem, but a mischievous, rogue book constantly torments her and thwarts her efforts. Spell-casting by the two covens involves dancing, spinning around, and repeating nonsense words, and Willa’s attempts frequently result in unpredictable incantations. An inner voice of wild magic wants to be released, so Willa frequently has mental clashes as she struggles to keep the power under control.
What didn’t work as well:
The silliness of the magic sometimes overshadows more important moments. It’s awkward to have critical confrontations or investigations while strange-looking characters or errant spells are involved. However, the whimsy and playfulness of the book are keys to its appeal. It has a clear, engaging conflict that is enhanced by the author’s wit.
The Final Verdict:
You can’t make a swan quack. Learning to be who you’re meant to be, not what others try to make you, is an important lesson. The mystery of a rogue witch stirring up war and the main character who might explode offer compelling problems to entertain readers. The addition of humor is icing on the cake. I highly recommend you give this book a shot.
August 25, 2022
Twelve-year-old Willa Birdwhistle lives in the Wild, a place that is home to the Ordinary Folk of the non-magical kind and one that is sandwiched between two covens of warring witches. Whilst the locals have little to do with the witches they regularly spend their days avoiding misfiring spells that cause frogs to rain down and chickens to dance.
Like everyone in the Wild, Willa is not fond of magic, especially after her parents were magicked away by a wayward curse, and she definitely does not want to be a witch. When she receives the most unwanted news…she is a witch, she is sure that there must be a mistake. But it’s not and now she must choose which of the two covens to join by her next birthday, and if she doesn’t, she’ll explode.
With Willa trying to master her magic, strange things are happening in town. A rogue witch is stealing the voices of the Ordinary Folk and when her new best friend becomes a victim, Willa knows the madness must end. Can she unravel a witch mystery to save not only herself but also her friends and the whole of the town…
Magic, mayhem and mystery provide the backdrop for a fast-paced adventure as young Willa tries to alter her destiny and avoid an explosive ending. Danger, intrigue and heart-stopping moments are never far away as Willa and her new friends find themselves battling a dangerous witch, avoiding malevolent spells and trying to solve a mystery that is plaguing the entire town.
Laced with humour and heart, Shivaun Plozza is onto a winner with the perfect potion of silly spells, likeable young characters and an edge of the seat adventure that keeps you guessing whether Willa will choose a coven, find a way out of her predicament or simply explode. With strong messages about being true to yourself and controlling your own destiny, and themes of friendship, perseverance, bravery and belonging, A Reluctant Witch’s Guide to Magic makes for a fun and light-hearted read with some important lessons.
A delightfully quirky middle-grade fantasy that leaves scope for plenty more to come.
With huge thanks to Penguin for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.
Recommended for 8+.
Like everyone in the Wild, Willa is not fond of magic, especially after her parents were magicked away by a wayward curse, and she definitely does not want to be a witch. When she receives the most unwanted news…she is a witch, she is sure that there must be a mistake. But it’s not and now she must choose which of the two covens to join by her next birthday, and if she doesn’t, she’ll explode.
With Willa trying to master her magic, strange things are happening in town. A rogue witch is stealing the voices of the Ordinary Folk and when her new best friend becomes a victim, Willa knows the madness must end. Can she unravel a witch mystery to save not only herself but also her friends and the whole of the town…
Magic, mayhem and mystery provide the backdrop for a fast-paced adventure as young Willa tries to alter her destiny and avoid an explosive ending. Danger, intrigue and heart-stopping moments are never far away as Willa and her new friends find themselves battling a dangerous witch, avoiding malevolent spells and trying to solve a mystery that is plaguing the entire town.
Laced with humour and heart, Shivaun Plozza is onto a winner with the perfect potion of silly spells, likeable young characters and an edge of the seat adventure that keeps you guessing whether Willa will choose a coven, find a way out of her predicament or simply explode. With strong messages about being true to yourself and controlling your own destiny, and themes of friendship, perseverance, bravery and belonging, A Reluctant Witch’s Guide to Magic makes for a fun and light-hearted read with some important lessons.
A delightfully quirky middle-grade fantasy that leaves scope for plenty more to come.
With huge thanks to Penguin for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.
Recommended for 8+.
August 7, 2022
The Wild is a city caught in a war between two witch covens, leaving the nonmagical subject to the whims of their spells. Willa's parents had been turned into clouds by accident, and since then she has lived on her own. When someone sees her deflect a spell, she's forcibly enrolled in lessons to control her unruly magic. If she can't do it within a year and choose a coven to belong to, she'll explode. As if that wasn't bad enough, a rogue witch is targeting the nonmagical. Willa must unravel the identity of the rogue witch in order to save herself and her city.
This is billed as a cross between Kiki's Delivery Service and Cressida Cowell novels. Our middle-grade-aged heroine certainly fits the age of those heroes. Willa is twelve, and the pent-up wild energy of witches born to ordinary folk is more powerful than the dancing and wiggling of the silent Silverclaw or the cursing and spitting of the Irontongue clans. Don't worry, the cursing is of the nonsense word variety. It's fun to read, as is the fact that everything in the kingdom has a form that must be filled out in triplicate, delaying everything. A wild magic child years ago hadn't chosen a coven and exploded instead, leaving behind a wasteland, but he had been certain there was another way.
The back and forth between covens mirrors the struggle that Willa has over her magic. She thinks she must cage it, just as everyone around her insists she must control herself and conform to their ideas. Gaspard is a horrible teacher, but not everyone in the castle is horrible. Willa makes friends with two children around her age and concern for their well-being as well as the place she grew up drives her forward. She is a fun and relatable character. I hope the ending means we can see her further adventures.
This is billed as a cross between Kiki's Delivery Service and Cressida Cowell novels. Our middle-grade-aged heroine certainly fits the age of those heroes. Willa is twelve, and the pent-up wild energy of witches born to ordinary folk is more powerful than the dancing and wiggling of the silent Silverclaw or the cursing and spitting of the Irontongue clans. Don't worry, the cursing is of the nonsense word variety. It's fun to read, as is the fact that everything in the kingdom has a form that must be filled out in triplicate, delaying everything. A wild magic child years ago hadn't chosen a coven and exploded instead, leaving behind a wasteland, but he had been certain there was another way.
The back and forth between covens mirrors the struggle that Willa has over her magic. She thinks she must cage it, just as everyone around her insists she must control herself and conform to their ideas. Gaspard is a horrible teacher, but not everyone in the castle is horrible. Willa makes friends with two children around her age and concern for their well-being as well as the place she grew up drives her forward. She is a fun and relatable character. I hope the ending means we can see her further adventures.
September 20, 2023
The writing style of this book hooked me almost immediately: I had only reached page three by the time I knew that I was going to read all the way to the end (and which I did in a single sitting, no less)!
I was initially attracted to this book when I read the description saying that it was like "Kiki's Delivery Service meets Cressida Cowell." Having finished, that description is quite apt! In my own words, I would describe it such: A Reluctant Witch's Guide to Magic has the witty narration reminiscent of Terry Pratchett's novels, and the whimsical characters and a plot similar to the Series of Unfortunate Events. Which is to say that it is at times somewhat silly, and at others, rather dark.
This made it an easy, enjoyable read, one I couldn't put down. It was easy to sympathize with Willa's plight, very satisfying to see her making new friends during her adventure, and inspiring to see her come into her own. The theme also resonated with me, although to avoid spoiling it for future readers, I'll describe it in a vague but relevant fashion: "swans don't quack."
I definitely recommend this book for young readers, and for anyone looking for a light, fun read. Reading about Willa's adventure may also be helpful for those that feel like they are wrong for being different than what society tells them they should be!
I was initially attracted to this book when I read the description saying that it was like "Kiki's Delivery Service meets Cressida Cowell." Having finished, that description is quite apt! In my own words, I would describe it such: A Reluctant Witch's Guide to Magic has the witty narration reminiscent of Terry Pratchett's novels, and the whimsical characters and a plot similar to the Series of Unfortunate Events. Which is to say that it is at times somewhat silly, and at others, rather dark.
This made it an easy, enjoyable read, one I couldn't put down. It was easy to sympathize with Willa's plight, very satisfying to see her making new friends during her adventure, and inspiring to see her come into her own. The theme also resonated with me, although to avoid spoiling it for future readers, I'll describe it in a vague but relevant fashion: "swans don't quack."
I definitely recommend this book for young readers, and for anyone looking for a light, fun read. Reading about Willa's adventure may also be helpful for those that feel like they are wrong for being different than what society tells them they should be!
July 2, 2023
Honestly, I found myself really enjoying this title! It was so funny (the witches either say nonsense in order to cast spells or they dance a silly dance, depending on your coven), and just plain cute. I loved the friendships and setting and everything. It didn't cross over the L4M Guidelines in terms of magic and “witchcraft.” Willa did meet a ghost that carried her head and the ghosts talked about eating her. The reason there is a war between the covens is because a witch decided to take animal parts and part of a human to make a “jumble.” But what caused me to decide not to recommend this title is because throughout the entire book, Willa is suppressing her magic because her parents thought it would endanger her and because, she thought, they didn't want a witch as a daughter. They tried to “make her quack like a duck when she was a swan.” Essentially, too many people are trying to make her into something she isn’t. “I may not be who you wanted but I will always be who I want.”
Even though I really enjoyed this book, I decided may be too much of an agenda to recommend officially. If you think your kiddo will not catch on or if you want to talk about it with your reader, I would definitely recommend this one!
Even though I really enjoyed this book, I decided may be too much of an agenda to recommend officially. If you think your kiddo will not catch on or if you want to talk about it with your reader, I would definitely recommend this one!
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December 17, 2021Thank you to NetGalley for providing an electronic ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Twelve-year-old Willa Birdwhistle is constantly having to dodge spells being cast by two warring witch covens: the Irontongues and the Silverclaws. Willa is not a big fan of magic since it whisked her parents away in a cloud and left her to fend for herself. When Willa experiences a strange, fizzy feeling and magic happens around her, she is told she must make a choice: join one of the witch covens or she will explode on her thirteenth birthday! Willa receives magical tutoring and learns how to harness her abilities. She spends the second half of the book looking for ways to avoid her undesirable fate. This book was fun to read, although the comic tone felt odd at times when heavier topics (being an orphan, violence against others) were being discussed. By the end of the book, I must admit that I was a bit tired of the jokes. However, there is heart and meaning underneath and Willa is a root-worthy character. I do recommend this for children who are not sensitive to things like spells that create Jumble monsters or ones that steal your voice.
Twelve-year-old Willa Birdwhistle is constantly having to dodge spells being cast by two warring witch covens: the Irontongues and the Silverclaws. Willa is not a big fan of magic since it whisked her parents away in a cloud and left her to fend for herself. When Willa experiences a strange, fizzy feeling and magic happens around her, she is told she must make a choice: join one of the witch covens or she will explode on her thirteenth birthday! Willa receives magical tutoring and learns how to harness her abilities. She spends the second half of the book looking for ways to avoid her undesirable fate. This book was fun to read, although the comic tone felt odd at times when heavier topics (being an orphan, violence against others) were being discussed. By the end of the book, I must admit that I was a bit tired of the jokes. However, there is heart and meaning underneath and Willa is a root-worthy character. I do recommend this for children who are not sensitive to things like spells that create Jumble monsters or ones that steal your voice.
August 10, 2022
Thank you to Clarion Books for giving me a copy via Netgalley!
What a fun little middle grade story! I wasn’t expecting much from this, and I was so pleasantly surprised. We follow Willow, a girl who is trying her best to be normal but is actually a witch. She has to stay at the palace to learn and harness her powers and ,eventually, chose a coven to join.
Her journey is crazy but fun, and very relatable. We watch her make her first friends, and come into her identity as a witch. There’s so many colorful characters in the palace with her, most of whom made me laugh, and will be so fun for students to read. I thought the magic was so unique, and so interesting to read about. It involved dancing, hopping and all sorts of nonsense words. I’ve never read anything like it.
I figured out who the bad guy was pretty early on, which is to be expected. Also, I’m an adult, and the book’s intended audience probably won’t have this issue. I can’t wait to add this to our library’s collection, and am crossing my fingers for a sequel.
What a fun little middle grade story! I wasn’t expecting much from this, and I was so pleasantly surprised. We follow Willow, a girl who is trying her best to be normal but is actually a witch. She has to stay at the palace to learn and harness her powers and ,eventually, chose a coven to join.
Her journey is crazy but fun, and very relatable. We watch her make her first friends, and come into her identity as a witch. There’s so many colorful characters in the palace with her, most of whom made me laugh, and will be so fun for students to read. I thought the magic was so unique, and so interesting to read about. It involved dancing, hopping and all sorts of nonsense words. I’ve never read anything like it.
I figured out who the bad guy was pretty early on, which is to be expected. Also, I’m an adult, and the book’s intended audience probably won’t have this issue. I can’t wait to add this to our library’s collection, and am crossing my fingers for a sequel.
October 5, 2022
Willa lives in a village caught between the warring Silverclaw and Irontongue witches where wayward spells create downpours of frogs or turn innocent people into clouds that then float away. When Willa accidentally casts wayward spells of her own, she is accused of being a witch. She is then whisked off to the castle where she will be trained (for a year!) in the art of witchcraft before she will be forced to choose between the warring covens. Of course, she denies being a witch although her parents did always encourage her to keep her fizzing nature under control. With the help of her friends, the dogsbody (a person who does menial work) and the princess who fancies herself the castle librarian, she investigates the mysterious spells that keep popping up and tries to figure out her place in the world of witchcraft and royalty. Written to appeal to kids who love a good potty joke – the witches fling boogers at each other and create “jumble” monsters comprised of body parts from different animals – kids will enjoy the story.
June 20, 2022
Willa has always been different, luckily, she is able to hide it. When she is accused of being a witch Willa can’t believe it. Yes, sometimes things seem to happen that could be considered magical, but that must be normal. Sadly, soon there is no denying that she is a witch. Now she is faced with a choice will she pick between the two witch covens, and she needs to do it posthaste, least she explodes of wild magic when she turns 13. No pressure right? Well sadly Willa really doesn’t like either coven. In fact, she will do anything to find another way so that she can do magic on her own terms.
I enjoyed this book. It is the perfect blend of funny and serious. Willa’s quest to find friends and find out where she truly fits in is quite powerful. It also is a perfect example of all the different emotions that kids that age are dealing with. It is a powerful time and sometimes it does seem like the world will explode if you can’t get control back of your body. I think that kids who enjoy humors magic will truly enjoy this tale.
Thank you so much to Clarion Books and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.
I enjoyed this book. It is the perfect blend of funny and serious. Willa’s quest to find friends and find out where she truly fits in is quite powerful. It also is a perfect example of all the different emotions that kids that age are dealing with. It is a powerful time and sometimes it does seem like the world will explode if you can’t get control back of your body. I think that kids who enjoy humors magic will truly enjoy this tale.
Thank you so much to Clarion Books and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.
June 27, 2022
I received an electronic ARC from Clarion Books through NetGalley.
Plozza offers readers an interesting look at a world where two witch covens war with curses and a village of ordinaries lives between them. Readers join one young girl as she tries to make it on her own. Her parents were cursed and have floated away as clouds. She struggles to contain part of herself that she doesn't understand. This works until it explodes from her and she is named a witch. Her life changes significantly as she has to live in the castle and learn to control her skills. She makes friends with Gill and Princess Marceline. Together, they figure out who is causing the spells everywhere in the castle and village.
This novel offers an off-center style humor. The two warring covens are portrayed as stereotypes and their behaviors and mannerisms will amuse readers. Underneath the humor, is a needed message of being who you are meant to be and not who others want you to be. Willa figures this out by the end.
Plozza offers readers an interesting look at a world where two witch covens war with curses and a village of ordinaries lives between them. Readers join one young girl as she tries to make it on her own. Her parents were cursed and have floated away as clouds. She struggles to contain part of herself that she doesn't understand. This works until it explodes from her and she is named a witch. Her life changes significantly as she has to live in the castle and learn to control her skills. She makes friends with Gill and Princess Marceline. Together, they figure out who is causing the spells everywhere in the castle and village.
This novel offers an off-center style humor. The two warring covens are portrayed as stereotypes and their behaviors and mannerisms will amuse readers. Underneath the humor, is a needed message of being who you are meant to be and not who others want you to be. Willa figures this out by the end.
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June 27, 2022The following reviews have been shared by Penguin Random House Australia - publisher of A Reluctant Witch's Guide to Magic.
'Plozza's absorbing novel is full of inventive (and occasionally hilarious) magic; the spell casting, via wild exclamations and intricate dance steps, is particularly entertaining. A bewitching introduction to an original magical world.' – EMILY GRAHAM, BOOKLIST (US)
'Juxtaposing Willa’s earnest internal growth with an absurd and bureaucratic magical realm, Plozza (The Boy, the Wolf, and the Stars) creates a sense of alienation in the tween, even as she establishes new bonds, in this offbeat read with an archetypal heroine.' – PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (US)
'. . . intrigue, danger, and fast-paced, heart-stopping adventures . . . magical books, an army of cats . . . and a rogue witch who may cause total destruction. Exciting and highly imaginative.' – KIRKUS REVIEWS
'Plozza's absorbing novel is full of inventive (and occasionally hilarious) magic; the spell casting, via wild exclamations and intricate dance steps, is particularly entertaining. A bewitching introduction to an original magical world.' – EMILY GRAHAM, BOOKLIST (US)
'Juxtaposing Willa’s earnest internal growth with an absurd and bureaucratic magical realm, Plozza (The Boy, the Wolf, and the Stars) creates a sense of alienation in the tween, even as she establishes new bonds, in this offbeat read with an archetypal heroine.' – PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (US)
'. . . intrigue, danger, and fast-paced, heart-stopping adventures . . . magical books, an army of cats . . . and a rogue witch who may cause total destruction. Exciting and highly imaginative.' – KIRKUS REVIEWS
April 8, 2022
What an interesting premise for a middle grade fantasy chapter book! Two warring covens, one reluctant witch who must choose her path, many rouge spells wreaking havoc for a cast of intriguing characters and a mysterious, evil force determined to destroy the city... there's plenty here to interest a broad range of readers aged 9+. I particularly liked the idea that 'a swan doesn't quack' as I think it's nice to have a positive message to hold on to after the fun of solving the mystery has passed and I can definitely think of a few of my pupils that would thoroughly enjoy this book. Well worth sharing with young fantasy readers in your life!
Thank you NetGalley.co.uk and Clarion Books/Harper Collins Publishing for the free eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley.co.uk and Clarion Books/Harper Collins Publishing for the free eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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August 9, 2022A Reluctant Witch’s Guide to Magic is a delightful middle grade fantasy about a girl named Willa who lives in the land of Ordinary Folk between two warring witch covens. She soon finds out that she is a witch and has until her next birthday to harness her magic and choose a coven. Or she’ll explode. No big deal.
In the meantime, the Ordinary Folk must deal with errant spells that cause raining frogs or vomiting daisies – that is, people vomiting daisies, not daisies that vomit. There are some roses to watch out for specifically on Tuesdays, but I digress.
This book is just plain fun. The story is exciting, Willa’s character is thoughtful, and the spells are silly. This will be a lighthearted romp for 10-12 year-olds certain to tickle their funny bones while also delivering an adventure.
Thank you to Clarion Books and Netgalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
In the meantime, the Ordinary Folk must deal with errant spells that cause raining frogs or vomiting daisies – that is, people vomiting daisies, not daisies that vomit. There are some roses to watch out for specifically on Tuesdays, but I digress.
This book is just plain fun. The story is exciting, Willa’s character is thoughtful, and the spells are silly. This will be a lighthearted romp for 10-12 year-olds certain to tickle their funny bones while also delivering an adventure.
Thank you to Clarion Books and Netgalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2022
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy in return for an honest review.
It took me a little while to get into the story (I think trying to keep track of which witch was from which coven), but once I got into the story I found it to be a fun and easy fantasy read. I occasionally found the spells distracting (they were more involved than just words!), but I can see younger middle grade readers enjoying the fun spell descriptions (waggle your tongue like you're licking an ice cream cone!)
It took me a little while to get into the story (I think trying to keep track of which witch was from which coven), but once I got into the story I found it to be a fun and easy fantasy read. I occasionally found the spells distracting (they were more involved than just words!), but I can see younger middle grade readers enjoying the fun spell descriptions (waggle your tongue like you're licking an ice cream cone!)
April 25, 2022
I love finding cute books with great messaging for younger readers. Maybe it's the teacher in me but I think these books are so engaging and fun to read. This one is no different. A book about witchcraft for young readers this story is about Willa who is not the BEST at witchcraft but boy are we having fun with her story. Being given the choice at a young age to choose her magic or she'll explode was a bit shocking at first but you have to giggle at this story!
July 29, 2022
It's definitely a really cute read. I absolutely adore Willa and her adventures. The ending is.... interesting. It's definitely different from what I expected but I very much appreciate it. I enjoy the fact that the author gives the reader to wander the future Willa holds. It gives freedom to the reader and their imagination space to create something more. It is very creative for the author to chose the ending they gave.
December 31, 2022
I wanted to like this story more, but I found it quite flawed. The overall message of “be yourself” is a nice one….but it felt heavy-handed at times.
I can’t quite put a finger on it, but something was just off. I did enjoy the excessively silly language and the clerk’s increasingly ridiculous form names.
“Books? Pft! Reading is for sniveling bumfuzzles. I’d rather sit on a scorpion than read a book.”
I can’t quite put a finger on it, but something was just off. I did enjoy the excessively silly language and the clerk’s increasingly ridiculous form names.
“Books? Pft! Reading is for sniveling bumfuzzles. I’d rather sit on a scorpion than read a book.”
February 11, 2024
Willa will learn how to be a good witch & maybe even save the kingdom while she's at it. Fantastically ridiculous. Such a fun read. I can see kids having a blast trying to act out the spells. Curses are spaghetti turning to worms & voices being stolen. Punishment is the rapscallions cage. Good spells can make you fly or turn brussel sprouts into chocolate. Completely appropriate & a great fantasy read.
August 6, 2022
This was a cute magic read. This book just did not make a super big impression on me! I thought the world was super fun and thought it was a fun read. This world seems a bit confusing a points and the plot just did not capture my attention and make me want to read it. It was a super cute read and would more books int this world. This was a cute read but did not wow me!!
September 14, 2022
This is a good book for young readers (middle school) looking for a light, fun read. The magical world is sweet and original. We loved the funny spells and magic-gone-wrong scenarios that followed Willa around. There are lots of twists in the story to keep you engaged. Would recommend to any new and young reader.
April 22, 2022
I received an ARC of, A Reluctant Witch's Guide to Magic, by Shivaun Plozza. Is Willa a witch? Willa is a great character. Finding out if she really is a witch, and if she can solve the mystery and save the ordinary people, kept me reading til the end.
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