The Witch Boy

Ostertag Knox ( 2017). The Witch Boy: New York, NY: Scholastic Inc 224 pages, Grade 4-7, Graphic Novel / Non-Fiction, ISBN 9781338089516

Aster was a young boy who was always interested in learning witch magic. He would hide while the girls were taking witch lessons so he can take notes and learn. He would instead go to where the girls are at so that he would listen what they learn and continue to take notes. Aster would sometimes hide and practice the witch magic he learned from listening to the lady who taught the girls witch powers. The place where Aster lives do not allow boys to learn witch magic but only stick to learn shapeshifting which is to call the spirit and turn into a type of animal. While Aster wonders around, he found a new friend named Charlotte. One day the boys were out at night trying to call on the spirits, but months Aster was not able to shapeshift. One of Aster’s cousin disappeared and later appeared and acted differently. A red dragon seemed to Aster and told him about a deal to help him just like what he did to Aster’s cousins about shapeshift. Later, Aster found out some witch magic and spells with the help of his friend Charlotte. Mikasi was the red looking dragoon. He was a twin of Aster’s grandmother. He was basically just like Aster wanted to learn witch magic. Aster made the witch spell and the curse was broken from Mikasi. The family were surprised that it was the lost boy from long time ago. Soon after, the families agreed that there should not only be girls who can learn witch magic but boys too because Aster should them the magic he had from witch power.

I really like the book. It is very interesting. I think it is an excellent history of how girls were not the only witch from a long time ago. They were not the only ones who could possess the power. I think the book is suitable for maybe young kids from grade 4 to middle school. I think to teach it in class might not be necessary. I think maybe giving out a topic and the student can just learn it at home or even reading it in class but individual reading. I think it is not really social work relatable but it is in some ways especially talking about history and culture. The history of how the culture changes from only witch women to also men. I think the author did an excellent job with fewer words and pictures. The illustration is beautiful and very clear. I think kids would love to read this book. It is fun and exciting.

Reviewed by: Emylyn Walter