A Spell for Disaster (The Witches of Anderson House #1)

Elderly former broomstick-flying champion Myrtle Stormwhisper no longer practices magic, opting instead to while away the rest of her days among the other retired witches living in Anderson House at the end of Broomhall Road. When young neighbor Henry implores her to use her abilities to locate his missing guinea pig, however, she can’t resist the challenge. But her magic is rusty, and after a spell gone wrong shakes her confidence, she suggests that Henry ask a “younger witch” for help. Myrtle’s fellow retirees don’t allow her to wallow, reminding her that “age is merely a number.” From an enchanted toad that was once a human mail carrier, to a cat with excellent eyesight, everyone assists Myrtle as she jumps hurdle after hurdle in her search for Henry’s guinea pig. Skillful worldbuilding is enriched by chaotically cluttered, whimsically detailed illustrations, including a map of the delightfully witchy town, Anderson House floor plans, and portraits of each retired witch, depicted with various skin tones, and their quirky familiars. Themes of building (and rebuilding) self-confidence ring true in this laugh-out-loud early chapter book roller coaster by Poh (Where Did TJ Go?) and Lowe (Rocket), who assert that one is never too young—or too old—to bask in the wonders of friendship and new experiences. Ages 5–7. Agents: (for Poh) Nicky Lander, Bright Agency; (for Lowe) Alex Adsett, Alex Adsett Literary. (Sept.)