Only a Witch Can Fly

Chocolate and mint block prints that evoke 1960s-era picture books and lyrical prose tell the story of a girl who dreams of flying her broom across the sky. Dressed in classic witch attire—striped socks, a black cape and a bandana—and accompanied by her loyal black cat, she tries again and again without success. “How awful it is not to fly in the sky,” laments the text as she tumbles to the ground. But determination pays off, and the girl finally takes off into a grainy green night (“Above you the night birds circle and croon./ Did you ever know you could fly so high?”). Beneath the vintage spooky setting lies a subtle message about perseverance and individuality. Ages 4–8. (Aug.)