WITCH FOR HIRE

Witches face many obstacles in life: fear, prejudice, and sitting at the unpopular table in high school are just a few.

Witches aren’t part of the A squad, as new high schooler Cody learns when her popular upperclassman sister, Bryce, dismisses her to the cafeteria table that is a lunchroom waystation for people who haven’t yet found their place in the social hierarchy. It’s there she meets Faye, the table’s only permanent resident and the school’s resident witch. Cody’s desire to move on brings her into digital contact with shy_shelbi, a social media account that promises to make your dreams come true. Most of those dreams, however, turn out to be nightmares, and it’s up to Faye to begrudgingly save her classmates’ lives. Faye is a mysterious character who brings a lot of baggage with her, some of which is addressed in the book and some of which is hopefully being saved for future stories. The ending hints at a new path for the young witch, and readers who identify with feeling a little out of place in school or life will be begging to learn when the adventure continues. Many will appreciate the messages centered around popularity, acceptance, self-confidence, and the influence of social media. The expressive artwork enhances the mood through heavy use of black and shades of glowing orange and atmospheric teal. Main characters are White-presenting; there is diversity in the background cast.

Spooky and fun, with substance as well.