Lauren Magaziner soars onto the scene with a story that has echoes of the classics but is completely original.
In the coastal witch town of Gliverstoll, 11-year-old Rupert Campbell often finds himself on the receiving end of his fifth grade teacher Mrs. Frabbleknacker's punishments. Her latest threat, to kick him to the witches' doorstep, doesn't seem so bad, especially since he's never met one. But when Rupert finds an ad in the newspaper for a witch's apprentice, he thinks it's "beyond perfect." Witchling Two needs help mastering her spells before her upcoming Bar Exam to become a full-fledged witch. If she fails, she'll be exiled forever.
This hilarious and tenderhearted debut about friendship will keep readers laughing at Witchling Two's many backfired spells, lollipop addiction and amusing musings. The climactic battle with an evil witch is one for the ages. Roald Dahl fans, look no further for your next charming read! --Adam Silvera, children's bookseller