The Hidden Witch: A Graphic Novel (The Witch Boy Trilogy #2)

Product Description

From the creator of the acclaimed graphic novel
The Witch Boy comes a new adventure set in the world of magic and shapeshifting — and ordinary kids just trying to make friends.
Aster and his family are adjusting to his unconventional talent for witchery; unlike the other boys in his family, he isn’t a shapeshifter. He’s taking classes with his grandmother and helping to keep an eye on his great-uncle whose corrupted magic wreaked havoc on the family. Meanwhile, Aster’s friend from the non-magical part of town, Charlie, is having problems of her own — a curse has tried to attach itself to her. She runs to Aster and escapes it, but now the friends must find the source of the curse before more people — normal and magical alike — get hurt.

From School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-In this adventurous sequel to The Witch Boy, Aster is finally allowed to learn witchery alongside the girls in his family, while his best friend Charlie is excited by the prospect of a new friendship at (nonmagic) school with shy, guarded Ariel. But mysterious happenings pick up quickly when Charlie is visited by a malevolent spirit and when magic meddles in her first basketball game. Meanwhile, in return for extra lessons, Aster helps his grandmother heal the monster who endangered his life and who, deep down, is also his great-uncle Mikasi. Ostertag skillfully develops the setting and action while tackling topics such as friendship, jealousy, bullying, and identity. Themes of embracing differences and the long-term effects of intolerance carry over from the previous installment, as readers are introduced to a diverse, expanding cast. The bold art is inviting; clear-cut, brightly colored panels with warm autumnal tones keep scenes moving and shift into muted shades to enhance the creep factor. Depictions of Mikasi’s dragon-esque form and foreboding shadow shapes are the perfect level of spooky for the target audience. VERDICT An exciting continuation of Aster’s supernatural journey, whose coming-of-age messages will resonate with middle graders.-Ashleigh Williams, School Library Journalα(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Review

Praise for The Witch Boy:”Ostertag’s story is straightforward, acting as a parable for gender conformity that’s pitched just right to middle-grade audiences. Her panels are clear, colorful, and friendly, and her worldbuilding flawless…With charming artwork, interesting supporting characters, natural-feeling diversity, and peeks of a richly developed world, this book leaves readers wishing for more.” —
Kirkus Reviews, starred review”Thrilling. Ostertag is one of comics’ brightest new voices.” — Hope Larson, author of
Compass South”Ostertag is creating worlds and witches for the modern young reader.” — Lucy Knisley, author of
Something New and
Relish”Dazzling…a contemporary fantasy for anyone who’s struggled with defining themselves.” — Marika McCoola, author of
Baba Yaga’s Assistant

Praise for The Witch Boy:”Ostertag’s story is straightforward, acting as a parable for gender conformity that’s pitched just right to middle-grade audiences. Her panels are clear, colorful, and friendly, and her worldbuilding flawless…With charming artwork, interesting supporting characters, natural-feeling diversity, and peeks of a richly developed world, this book leaves readers wishing for more.” —
Kirkus Reviews, starred review”Thrilling. Ostertag is one of comics’ brightest new voices.” — Hope Larson, author of
Compass South”Ostertag is creating worlds and witches for the modern young reader.” — Lucy Knisley, author of
Something New and
Relish”Dazzling…a contemporary fantasy for anyone who’s struggled with defining themselves.” — Marika McCoola, author of
Baba Yaga’s Assistant

About the Author

Molly Knox Ostertag is the
New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of the acclaimed Witch Boy trilogy:
The Wit