LitPick Review
Zadie is a little witch with a big heart. She often finds herself being a smart witch and kind sister, even when her two older sisters act selfishly and unkindly. Her greatest wish is to be the best witch she can be. So, Zadie is thrilled when an invitation to be picked at the Witch's Tea party to become an assistant to the most powerful witch in the land arrives at her house. At least she is thrilled until her older sisters tell her that she is not good enough and is too small to go to the party. Luckily, Zadie's Fairy Godspider shows up and saves the day, making it possible for Zadie to make it to the tea party despite her sisters' demands and discouragements. Zadie is much like a Cinderella character in this story and finds that listening to the encouragement of her Fairy Godspider is enough to push her towards believing in herself and pursuing her dreams. Will Zadie be chosen to become the most powerful witch's assistant? You will have to read this charming picturebook to find out.
Opinion:
This story has many of the things that young children love: Halloween themed characters-witches, spiders, etc. and a magical twist on a classic fairytale story. The illustrations are whimsical, vibrantly colorful, and completely transporting, as the pictures make this book come together in a way that invites you into the magic of a world where you can feel like you are a little witch following your dreams. I loved also that the author of this book reads her books at schools and encourages children to read through her literary presentations. The author, Gayle C. Krause, is a true storyteller who children will find engaging and inspiring as her books and workshops encourage a love of reading and imagination.
