THE WORST WITCH TO THE RESCUE

How can anyone resist a talking tortoise and a good-hearted young witch?

For the first time in many years, American readers can read more adventures of Mildred Hubble, the lovable, accident-prone young witch. Returning for her second term at Miss Cackle’s Academy for Witches, Mildred is uncharacteristically optimistic about a fresh start. Her big idea for creating a spell that makes animals talk (at least for a little while) is unique, creative and impressive. Her notes are in order, and she is excited to present her project to the demanding Miss Hardbloom. But innocent Mildred shares her idea with her enemy, the slippery and conniving Ethel Hallow, and things go bad quickly. Her optimism disappears with her notes when evil Ethel presents Mildred’s idea as her own. Readers will cheer for the bighearted Mildred when she takes huge risks to save Einstein, her tortoise friend, and he in turn saves her. An old-fashioned tone combines with Briticisms and sophisticated vocabulary to make this a fine step up from early chapter books. Distinctively detailed black-and-white illustrations grace each spread, adding humor and information to the narrative. Mildred’s innocent expressions juxtaposed with Miss Hardbloom’s harsh eyebrows will keep young readers engaged and amused.

Heartwarming magic with just the right touch of talking toads and tortoises. (Fantasy. 8-12)