The apprentice-magician puppies confront an exciting new challenge.
Now that Hocus and Pocus have adjusted to their forever home, their ruby-haired, brown-skinned witch caregiver, Jinx, decides to help them get to know their new neighborhood. They plan a “potion drop”—a sort of reverse trick-or-treating activity. They go door to door giving out helpful mixtures and in return receive pickles, pies, socks, and firewood; their fellow witches even give them some spells. Extroverted Hocus is having a great time, but shy Pocus feels overwhelmed. When they learn that the wizard next door is having trouble with his new pet—a dragon named Bye-Bye who keeps setting things on fire—Pocus is naturally terrified, so the pups try to make “a not-scary spell,” with an incantation involving some decidedly un-scary words, like zoomies and lap naps. Pocus feels braver, but when the pups attempt to visit Bye-Bye, they find the dragon cowering in a cave. Bye-Bye’s also anxious—and unfortunately doesn’t speak dog. Hijinks, including shape-shifting, ensue as Hocus tries out another potion in an attempt to communicate with Bye-Bye. Just as engaging as its predecessor, this tale artfully blends magic and whimsy. Pocus’ trajectory from fearful to more confident—though still a bit uncertain—is both relatable and realistic. Clear, bright illustrations complement the text well; Hocus’ gift for prediction should prophecy success for the series.
Charming, quirky, and sweet—this one contains the magical ingredients for an absorbing read.
(Chapter book. 5-8)