The Sweetest Witch Around

Eight years after A Very Brave Witch, McGhee and Bliss return with a companion story that sees the brave heroine of that book educating her younger sister, Witchling, about humans, whom most witches fear. “Study the humans and learn their mysterious ways,” the young witch tells her sister in full-on teacher mode. “They love dressing up on Halloween. Especially like us.” However, the poison apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, and, like her sister, Witchling shows uncommon bravery. She dives headlong into trick-or-treating—unlike most witches, Witchling thinks candy is great—while her older sister tries to “rescue” her. McGhee’s knack for sharp, funny dialogue is a major asset in a story that unfolds entirely through speech and thought balloons. Bliss’s ink-and-watercolors illustrations provide plenty of humor, too, especially as Witchling struggles with the massive haul of candy she takes in. Ages 4–8. Agent: Holly McGhee, Pippin Properties. (Aug.)