Wacky Witches and Their Peculiar Familiars

Via couplets and detailed line drawings, Suddendorf celebrates 17 witches and “their peculiar familiars” in this magic-filled book. An opening preamble establishes the choose-a-pet conceit: “These witches know a thing or two/ About recruiting someone who/ Will serve as lackey, consort, friend,/ As trusted ally till the end.” Ensuing poems profile a range of animalian companions, including a macaque, a parrot, and a yak (“Izara plays the violin/ In concert with her PANGOLIN”). The featured witches include individuals of various abilities and skin tones occupying a range of environments, from undersea to underground. Morgan, a mermaid, gets assistance from a crab; Sorceress Ro, barefoot and clad in overalls, resides with “helpful worms”; and tattooed Joan dusts with aid from a squirrel. Depictions offer an alternative to conventional witch portrayals, going beyond standard holiday fare. Ages 4–8. (Sept.)