Not Just a Witch (by Eva Ibbotson)
common sense media says
Magic and humor mix with dark details for strange brew.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that the younger readers might be sucked in by the title and fun premise here -- but the author mentions a number of fairly brutal crimes, which makes this book a better fit for older kids. One pretty major character is found beaten and bloody by an adult, while a girl remembers her cousin beaten by white supremist thugs, for example. The witches at the heart of this story, Heckie and Dora, try to do the right thing, and ultimately learn to use their powers in gentle ways. They also model some lovely lessons about forgiveness and the strength of true friendship.
Educational value:
This book does have plenty of action and entertainment to keep readers sucked in -- and can lead to some compelling discussions about how we judge people. See our "Families Can Talk About" section for some ideas.
Positive role models:
Heckie and Dora try to do good, though they are sometimes misguided. They also model some lovely lessons about forgiveness and the strength of true friendship.
Violence:
An old woman is bashed in the head, a boy is found beaten and bloody, and mention is made of an abusive nursing home, animal cruelty, and other intense crimes. A girl remembers her cousin who was beaten by white supremist thugs. A woman is shot during a bank robbery, etc.
Sex:
Not applicable.
Language:
Some mentions of God, and an Indian girl recalls how racists had called her cousin a racist name.
Consumerism:
Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
A drunken wife-beater is mentioned, certainly not glamorized. An evil schemer drinks a lot of wine with dinner.
More on Not Just a Witch
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Most useful reviews by all members
Angela Tuson
parent of 5 year old
parent of 5 year old
Not Just a Good Read, but a Good Think too!
This is one of the two very best of Eva Ibbottson's excellent books. It would be a pity for any adult who cares about children, animals and respect toward the vulnerable and marginalized to miss out on one of her books. Referring to violence as being a bad choice is one of the things responsible adults DO do for children. Although the book IS lighthearted, the message is clear; kindness, tolerance, and thinking before acting are all preferable actions. Kindness to those who may not be like yourself, or who may not fit the general description of pretty or powerful is even better. Above all, think for yourself, and think lovingly are the messages of this book (and all her books). She should be required reading for all children (and their loving adult guardians/parents/care-givers/teachers).
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Kashana
teen, 15 years old
teen, 15 years old
NOT FOR ME
I THINK ITS THE BOMB LIKE TICK TICK BOOM
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A Tuson
parent of 5 year old
parent of 5 year old
Not just a Good Read, a Good Think too!
Excellent messages: kindness, think for yourself and always think lovingly. Children, animals and those who are marginalized are always her themes; Ibbottson should be required reading for children and their loving guardians/parents/teachers.
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