The Worst Witch

With the roaring success of Harry Potter, it’s easy to forget more classic novels that fit the bill. The Worst Witch has been part of children’s upbringings for generations, spurring TV spinoffs and more. Firstly, though, it’s worth noting that this is a children’s book. It’s not one that makes an attempt to appeal to a wider audience or introduce wordy prose. Jill Murphy’s writing style is simplistic and linear, and that’s part of what makes it so good. The Worst Witchis the perfect book for reluctant readers, and particularly those who are often in trouble. Mildred is a witch in her first year at Cackle’s Academy, but she’s not like all the others. She’s clumsy, has a white cat, and can’t ride a broom to save her life. Through the course of the book, all that changes. It’s a sweet, predictable story about a child that finds her confidence and place in the world, with plenty of lessons to be learned. It’s soft, entertaining story will undoubtedly live on for many more years.