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Lulu the Witch #1
Lulu and the Witch Baby
Lulu Witch begins to change her mind about her pesky baby sister when she thinks that one of her magic spells has made the baby disappear.
65 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1986
6 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
Jane O'Connor
280 books355 followersSince the publication of Fancy Nancy, Jane O'Connor's closet now boasts so many boas, tiaras, and sparkly ensembles that sometimes friends do not recognize her on the street. She still resides (that's a fancy word for lives) in New York City with her family and their canine companion, Arrow. --from the publisher's website
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 22, 2023
Lulu and the Witch Baby, illustrated by Emily Arnold McCully
The first of two I Can Read Books devoted to the adventures of Lulu Witch - the second being Lulu Goes to Witch School - this title follows its eponymous heroine through a somewhat rocky period of adjustment to her new infant sister, Witch Baby. Angry and jealous, resentful of all the attention that Witch Baby is getting, and feeling ignored, Lulu Witch casts a spell to get rid of her new sibling, while Mama Witch is out at the market. But when Witch Baby does disappear, Lulu begins to worry. What will Mama Witch think? And what will happen to her little sister, who is, after all, just a baby...?
Emily Arnold McCully fans will be interested in this early title, which she illustrated under the name "Emily McCully," as will beginning readers who enjoy witchy tales. Like Bruce Degen's The Little Witch and the Riddle , also read as part of my recent "witchy-witches" project, Jane O'Connor's narrative features magical accoutrements, but is centered on a common human experience: in this case, adjusting to a new sibling. Unfortunately, although I can see Lulu and the Witch Baby really appealing to some beginning readers, it just wasn't my cup of tea. The story didn't particularly impress me, and the rather blurry artwork wasn't to my taste. Still, mileage varies, so if you've got a young reader who's a big Fancy Nancy fan, and wants to try out other books by the same author, you might give this a try.
The first of two I Can Read Books devoted to the adventures of Lulu Witch - the second being Lulu Goes to Witch School - this title follows its eponymous heroine through a somewhat rocky period of adjustment to her new infant sister, Witch Baby. Angry and jealous, resentful of all the attention that Witch Baby is getting, and feeling ignored, Lulu Witch casts a spell to get rid of her new sibling, while Mama Witch is out at the market. But when Witch Baby does disappear, Lulu begins to worry. What will Mama Witch think? And what will happen to her little sister, who is, after all, just a baby...?
Emily Arnold McCully fans will be interested in this early title, which she illustrated under the name "Emily McCully," as will beginning readers who enjoy witchy tales. Like Bruce Degen's The Little Witch and the Riddle , also read as part of my recent "witchy-witches" project, Jane O'Connor's narrative features magical accoutrements, but is centered on a common human experience: in this case, adjusting to a new sibling. Unfortunately, although I can see Lulu and the Witch Baby really appealing to some beginning readers, it just wasn't my cup of tea. The story didn't particularly impress me, and the rather blurry artwork wasn't to my taste. Still, mileage varies, so if you've got a young reader who's a big Fancy Nancy fan, and wants to try out other books by the same author, you might give this a try.
October 26, 2017
This book provides an enjoyable read for children while teaching them an important lesson. This book is about a little witch in her family that is dealing with her baby sibling called "Witch Baby." Throughout the book she deals with all the attention being focused on her sibling and With Baby destroying most of her creations. The little witch wants the Witch Baby gone so bad that she takes it upon herself to try and create a spell to get rid of her sibling! In the end she thinks her spell works, but she worries about how her mother will miss the Witch Baby. However, the Witch Baby never disappeared but was gone with the mother the whole time. The little witch feels bad that she felt that way about her sibling and realizes that she is older and wiser than the Witch Baby.
This book does a great job explaining a concept that most toddlers go through when having a new sibling. The lesson is clear and even though the characters are fantasy like witches, it is very easy for a child to relate this to their life. Although the story line and lesson was realistic I could not fine anything extraordinary about this particular book. The plot was not fun to read and the pictures were just average. Therefore, I would definitely recommend this read for an older sibling dealing with a newborn sibling however, this is not a good enough read for the classroom.
This book does a great job explaining a concept that most toddlers go through when having a new sibling. The lesson is clear and even though the characters are fantasy like witches, it is very easy for a child to relate this to their life. Although the story line and lesson was realistic I could not fine anything extraordinary about this particular book. The plot was not fun to read and the pictures were just average. Therefore, I would definitely recommend this read for an older sibling dealing with a newborn sibling however, this is not a good enough read for the classroom.
July 28, 2024
Julianna read this book. She completed the box read with a flashlight for Hemsptead town bingo sheet. She gives the book 5 stars. I didn't like what the character did so I didn't like the book. I'd give it 2 stars. Julianna disagrees.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2022
Enjoyed on Open Library. Interesting that there's a Papa Witch, but he doesn't do much. Dated in style and vibe, and in the lack of nuance, and in the fact that Lulu is left alone to babysit. I don't think it's a bad book, but I just didn't get much out of it and don't think today's kids would, either.
August 22, 2019
I love this little book. The illustrations are adorable and the story is great for kids who have a new baby sibling in the house.
October 22, 2023
Lulu and the Witch Baby, illustrated by Bella Sinclair
As her new sister, Witchy Baby, begins to take up all of the attention of the grown-ups around her, from parents to aunts and uncles, little witch Lulu grows ever more resentful, especially when her own attempts to gain a little of her parents' time prove unsuccessful. Matters are not improved by Witch Baby's tendency to make a mess, and to destroy Lulu's things. When Mama Witch is out on an errand, Lulu reaches her boiling point, using a spell to make Witch Baby disappear. But is this really what she wants...?
The first of two beginning readers devoted to the adventures of the eponymous witch, Lulu and the Witch Baby was originally published in 1986, with artwork done by Emily Arnold McCully. This new revised edition was published in 2014, with artwork from Bella Sinclair, and on the whole, I prefer the newer version. Unfortunately, I did not have the original to hand, so I cannot compare the specific ways in which the story has been changed, but on this reading, I found the book far more engaging than I did when reading the original. I also preferred the artwork here, compared to that done by McCully. Bella Sinclair's illustrations are very cute, with a cartoon-like style that is suited to the story, I think. I particularly liked the scenes in the magic room, with all of the witchy accoutrements. Recommended to beginning readers with a taste for witchy fare, as well as those who might be contending with a new baby sibling themselves.
As her new sister, Witchy Baby, begins to take up all of the attention of the grown-ups around her, from parents to aunts and uncles, little witch Lulu grows ever more resentful, especially when her own attempts to gain a little of her parents' time prove unsuccessful. Matters are not improved by Witch Baby's tendency to make a mess, and to destroy Lulu's things. When Mama Witch is out on an errand, Lulu reaches her boiling point, using a spell to make Witch Baby disappear. But is this really what she wants...?
The first of two beginning readers devoted to the adventures of the eponymous witch, Lulu and the Witch Baby was originally published in 1986, with artwork done by Emily Arnold McCully. This new revised edition was published in 2014, with artwork from Bella Sinclair, and on the whole, I prefer the newer version. Unfortunately, I did not have the original to hand, so I cannot compare the specific ways in which the story has been changed, but on this reading, I found the book far more engaging than I did when reading the original. I also preferred the artwork here, compared to that done by McCully. Bella Sinclair's illustrations are very cute, with a cartoon-like style that is suited to the story, I think. I particularly liked the scenes in the magic room, with all of the witchy accoutrements. Recommended to beginning readers with a taste for witchy fare, as well as those who might be contending with a new baby sibling themselves.
October 8, 2018
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A humorous and adorable tale about a little witch who does not get along with her baby sister.
I feel like this is such a relatable story, wanting your baby sister/brother to disappear. I personally don't have siblings, but I have read enough books and seen enough movies to know that at some point, most kids feel this way.
This is a considered an I Can Read! level 2 book for developing readers. Personally, it seems kind of lengthy. The sentences and story are simple, but it is a very long book. From what I can tell, this is an older book that was readapted and given a super cute makeover. This version appears to be much cuter than the original.
Since this book was already written then given a level rating (as apposed to writing the book with the plan of it being a level 2), it makes sense that the length doesn't quite fit. I think it still works, just be aware that it may be best to read the book in parts instead of all at once.
Adorable illustrations and a fun story. I actually really enjoyed this witchy tale.
A humorous and adorable tale about a little witch who does not get along with her baby sister.
I feel like this is such a relatable story, wanting your baby sister/brother to disappear. I personally don't have siblings, but I have read enough books and seen enough movies to know that at some point, most kids feel this way.
This is a considered an I Can Read! level 2 book for developing readers. Personally, it seems kind of lengthy. The sentences and story are simple, but it is a very long book. From what I can tell, this is an older book that was readapted and given a super cute makeover. This version appears to be much cuter than the original.
Since this book was already written then given a level rating (as apposed to writing the book with the plan of it being a level 2), it makes sense that the length doesn't quite fit. I think it still works, just be aware that it may be best to read the book in parts instead of all at once.
Adorable illustrations and a fun story. I actually really enjoyed this witchy tale.
November 4, 2017
My copy had updated illustrations.
The story was a typical older sibling doesn’t like the attention the baby of the family gets. She also doesn’t like that baby’s can seemingly get away with breaking rules without consequences. So one day when Lulu is left alone to babysit her baby sister, she tries a witch’s spell which is against the rules. It doesn’t work. When Mama asks her what she did, she doesn’t tell the truth. Her mother doesn’t find out. Lulu feels badly for how she tried to make her sister disappear. Kids liked it because it was “Halloween” related.
The story was a typical older sibling doesn’t like the attention the baby of the family gets. She also doesn’t like that baby’s can seemingly get away with breaking rules without consequences. So one day when Lulu is left alone to babysit her baby sister, she tries a witch’s spell which is against the rules. It doesn’t work. When Mama asks her what she did, she doesn’t tell the truth. Her mother doesn’t find out. Lulu feels badly for how she tried to make her sister disappear. Kids liked it because it was “Halloween” related.
September 1, 2018
Granted this isn't the best writing, but for an early reader book, it is quite entertaining. My 3 yr old isn't reading yet, but she loves this Lulu Witch series of books. And I must admit I'm a sucker for them too. The story is adorable and I'm sure very relatable for some kids. The illustrations are just too cute. Can't wait to pick these up some more when my little one is reading.
December 30, 2022
I found this book while reading to my granddaughter, who is six. I had as much fun reading it as she did reading along and laughing. The author is the same as the author of the "Fancy Nancy' books.
Lulu is suffering from a serious case of jealousy about the Witch Baby because she gets all of the attention.
It's a humorous book, and very relatable. I highly recommend it!
Lulu is suffering from a serious case of jealousy about the Witch Baby because she gets all of the attention.
It's a humorous book, and very relatable. I highly recommend it!
July 6, 2018
What a adorable book. Anything witch like Im totally in!!
November 12, 2022
Simple sentences and adorable illustrations. For ages 4-8. Reading with Help (Level 2) - part of I Can Read.
October 19, 2025
Undermines its own moral as it encourages lying.
March 1, 2016
This is a cute “I Can Read” book by Jane O’Connor, who is the author of the Fancy Nancy books. Lulu Witch has a new baby sister, Witch Baby. Witch Baby is getting all kinds of presents from her family: a bat rattle, a witch doll and a Dracula-in-the-box. No one really has time for Lulu Witch anymore because they are busy with the baby. Witch Baby always makes a mess, but she never gets in trouble for it. One day Mama Witch needed to go to the store and Lulu Witch needed to babysit her little sister. Lulu Witch decided to create a spell to make Baby Witch disappear. Lulu got her wish and then she felt really bad. She tried to reverse the spell and thought she failed. Fortunately, when she got upstairs she saw Baby Witch with Mama Witch and all was well. The spell was not quite right and Lulu realized she loved her baby sister.
This is a perfect book for young readers who have been gifted with a new baby brother or sister. The illustrations are not scary at all and the Witch family looks very lovable. The illustrator, Bella Sinclair, did a really nice job by making really cute pencil sketches. The colors are bright and appealing to young readers. This is a good book to have in a school library in the “I Can Read” section. It’s a level 2. It’s a good book to show off in a Halloween themed book display. It’s also a good book to share with teachers and counselors if a young student is struggling with a new addition to the family. It will also introduce new readers to Jane O’Connor. This book was originally copyrighted in 1986. It looks as though it was re-released in 2014 with a few small changes.
This is a perfect book for young readers who have been gifted with a new baby brother or sister. The illustrations are not scary at all and the Witch family looks very lovable. The illustrator, Bella Sinclair, did a really nice job by making really cute pencil sketches. The colors are bright and appealing to young readers. This is a good book to have in a school library in the “I Can Read” section. It’s a level 2. It’s a good book to show off in a Halloween themed book display. It’s also a good book to share with teachers and counselors if a young student is struggling with a new addition to the family. It will also introduce new readers to Jane O’Connor. This book was originally copyrighted in 1986. It looks as though it was re-released in 2014 with a few small changes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2014
Lulu doesn't like Witch Baby. She makes messes and ruins things. One day when Mama leaves Lulu in charge, she decides to make a spell to make Witch Baby disappear. Lulu experiences what is a common reaction to having a new baby in the family, jealousy. Since some of her ingredients for her spell are missing, it doesn’t work. She eventually is glad to have Witch Baby for a sister, which is a pleasing ending to a fun story.
This is a new edition of this classic story. It also has new illustrations by Bella Sinclair. The full color illustrations are well done and they are a nice addition to the clever text. This edition’s illustrations are softer than Emily McCully’s more angular and monster like depiction from 1986. Lulu and the Witch baby are drawn more angelic, with rounded cheeks and wavy black hair that make them almost cherub like. I can’t say that I prefer one over the other; it’s just an interesting comparison of artistic interpretation of the story for those who may be interested in the history of the book.
This is an I Can Read, Level 2 easy-reader. The text is meant for developing readers who would be looking for a good story. It will appeal to children in grades 1-2.
I would recommend this book for purchase for school and public libraries.
This book was provided by the publisher for review by SWON Libraries.
This is a new edition of this classic story. It also has new illustrations by Bella Sinclair. The full color illustrations are well done and they are a nice addition to the clever text. This edition’s illustrations are softer than Emily McCully’s more angular and monster like depiction from 1986. Lulu and the Witch baby are drawn more angelic, with rounded cheeks and wavy black hair that make them almost cherub like. I can’t say that I prefer one over the other; it’s just an interesting comparison of artistic interpretation of the story for those who may be interested in the history of the book.
This is an I Can Read, Level 2 easy-reader. The text is meant for developing readers who would be looking for a good story. It will appeal to children in grades 1-2.
I would recommend this book for purchase for school and public libraries.
This book was provided by the publisher for review by SWON Libraries.
October 10, 2014
Lulu's little sister, Witch Baby, gets all of the attention and never gets in trouble. Lulu uses a magic spell to make Witch Baby disappear when Mama Witch goes shopping. Lulu immediately regrets her decision and tries to find a way to make Witch Baby come back. Lulu runs upstairs to find that Mama Witch was in the bathroom washing Witch Baby.
This book would be appropriate for readers that are beginning to read independently between the ages of four and six. Young readers may need help with some of the words, but will be able to read most of the book independently. Readers that enjoy fantasy or have new siblings may also enjoy the story.
This book would be appropriate for readers that are beginning to read independently between the ages of four and six. Young readers may need help with some of the words, but will be able to read most of the book independently. Readers that enjoy fantasy or have new siblings may also enjoy the story.
October 18, 2012
I think this is an enjoyable, solid easy reader with a witch theme. My second-grade daughter read it to me and we enjoyed the story together. Lulu Witch is very believable and acts the way most children would when a younger sibling destroys their stuff. She gets mad and says that she hates Witch Baby and then sneaks into the forbidden magic room to try to find a spell to make Witch Baby disappear. She later regrets this after her anger has cooled. I think most kids could relate to Lulu and her adventure. My daughter liked it well enough to ask for the second story, Lulu Goes to Witch School.
July 22, 2014
Little witch Lulu isn't too fond of her new baby sister and schemes to find a way to make her disappear. When she's left home to babysit her sister, she tries her hand at magic, but finds herself second-guessing her actions.
Solid easy reader title that's full of fun witchy details alongside realistic and relatable emotions regarding a new sibling. Recommended for grades 1-3.
Solid easy reader title that's full of fun witchy details alongside realistic and relatable emotions regarding a new sibling. Recommended for grades 1-3.
September 21, 2016
A great beginner reader book with a Halloween theme. The vocabulary is rather simple, but introduces some holiday specific terminology that kids hear around this time. The pictures are engaging and help kids to follow along the text. A good message about being the older sibling and learning to love the new baby in the house.
Read
May 8, 2019This is the story about a young little witch who wants to make her new troublesome witch sister disappear. Just as she thinks her spell had worked, she starts to regret making her sister disappear and is relieved to find her baby sister in the living room. A story that no matter how upset our siblings make us, we still love them and care for them dearly!
October 12, 2021
This is a cute story to read about witches for Halloween that is not scary. Lulu has a baby sister that can do no wrong and gets all of the attention. Lulu does not like it. And being a witch, she can do something about it. But should she try a magic spell to fix her Witch Baby problem? Or could a little bit of patience help her?
Want to read
August 23, 2012Laura Demoreuille's childhood favorite
August 10, 2014
I really prefer the original illustrations by Emily Arnold McCully.
September 19, 2014
Lulu the Witch is the first book I remember loving - I dressed up as her for Halloween when I was little once...fun to revisit.
November 5, 2016
Creepy, but I guess that was the intent.
Read
June 2, 2019Read. Not reviewed.
November 28, 2020
The illustrations are really cute. I love the witchy-ness in the book, but story wise it was alright. This is an easy reader book Level 2 for children that can read with help.
March 19, 2009
I didn't like the attitudes. The little girl tells her little sister that she hates her.
Read
December 27, 2018Mommy read this to me in October but forgot to update Goodreads for awhile. This was a cute book we got from the library to read to get in the spirit of Halloween.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews