A Very Brave Witch

A young witch lives in a world where witches fear humans and avoid contact with them. Unlike her peers, this curious witch wants to learn more about humans and ventures out on Halloween night to observe them up close. The story unfolds on Halloween, when costumed children fill the streets for trick-or-treating. Through a series of mishaps and chance encounters, the witch finds herself interacting with human children who assume she is just another trick-or-treater. The illustrations by Harry Bliss use watercolors to create a Halloween atmosphere that balances spooky elements with warmth and whimsy. Released in 2006 by Simon & Schuster, the book has appeared on the New York Times Bestseller List and was later adapted into an audiobook narrated by Elle Fanning. The story explores themes of overcoming prejudices and finding friendship in unexpected places, showing young readers how preconceptions can dissolve through direct experience and open-mindedness.

Readers describe this as a gentle Halloween story that helps address children's fears. Parents report their 4-7 year olds request repeated readings during October. Readers appreciate: - The humor, especially the witch's misconceptions about humans - Simple illustrations that aren't too scary - Message about overcoming prejudices and making friends - Short length suitable for bedtime reading Common criticisms: - Story feels rushed toward the end - Some found it too basic for older elementary students - A few mention the black cat could be hard to see against dark backgrounds Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (190+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.7/5 (25+ ratings) One teacher noted: "Perfect for kindergarteners learning about assumptions and stereotypes." A parent wrote: "My daughter loved pointing out all the witch's funny mistakes about human customs."

Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson The tale follows a witch who builds friendship with different animals during a Halloween adventure, sharing themes of acceptance and togetherness.

Only a Witch Can Fly by Alison McGhee This story captures a young witch's determination to achieve her dream of flying on Halloween night.

The Little Witch by Anna Elizabeth Bennett A novice witch learns to use her powers while navigating school life and friendship with non-magical children.

Strega Nona by Tomie dePaola The story features a witch who uses her magic to help her community while teaching responsibility through her apprentice's misadventures.

The Witch's Hand by Peter Utton A witch and her cat discover the meaning of friendship through a Halloween night encounter with neighborhood children.

🎃 Harry Bliss, the illustrator of this book, is also a renowned cartoonist for The New Yorker magazine and has illustrated over 20 children's books 🧙‍♀️ Author Alison McGhee has written for all ages - from picture books to adult novels - and her books have been translated into more than 20 languages 🌙 The history of associating witches with broomsticks dates back to the Middle Ages, when women would use special ointments applied with broom handles for medicinal purposes 🍬 The tradition of trick-or-treating began in medieval Britain and Ireland, where children and poor adults would go "souling" - collecting soul cakes in exchange for prayers 🎨 The book's watercolor illustration style was specifically chosen to create a less scary, more approachable version of traditional Halloween imagery for young readers