Backyard Witch: Sadie's Story

Reviewed by: Terri Bauld - Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library, Kennebunkport, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: May 9, 2016

Review

Sadie's Story is the first book in a great new series aimed at children who are just becoming independent readers. With short chapters, plenty of charming black & white illustrations to highlight the text, this series will appeal to readers of Clementine, Ivy and Bean, and Digby O'Day.

Left back home, while her two best friends are away together, Sadie is feeling out of sorts and lonely. Alerted by Wilson, her cat, could it be smoke coming from her playhouse roof? A touch of magic perhaps? Smoke indeed, provided by a friendly, endearing witch. A kindly witch who would love to be her friend. A friend who has many important life lessons and hobbies to share.

Young readers who have felt left out will immediately relate to Sadie. This book also provides interesting information on bird watching, which is one of the activities encouraged by the friendly backyard witch. The back pages include information on bird watching and encourage readers to start a journal and try it out.

A strong recommendation for all libraries.

Overall Book Score: excellent