Common Sense Media Review
Too young for Harry? Try this fun witch series.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
Mildred Hubble is excited about her first year of witch school, but soon discovers the lessons to be more challenging than expected -- making mistakes and getting into trouble seem to come easier to her than making the grade. But when she find out that rogue witches are plotting against the school, Mildred may just manage to save the day.
Is It Any Good?
This makes a great read-alone or read-aloud for pre-Potter kids; the author's great characters and worthwhile lessons are ideal for this age group.
Mildred Hubble is your average, awkward, school-age kid who has adventures with her friends, but also faces challenges. Kids will find her a relatable character right away (with the added fun that she's a witch), and will enjoy her unique friends Maud and Enid. Maud wears glasses, is short and stocky, and tends to play it safe. Enid is tall and big-boned, also awkward, and likes mischief.
First published in 1974 when the author was just 18 years old, it's since been adapted as a movie and TV series.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Mildred's challenges. Can readers relate to her awkwardness physically, as well as in social and academic situations? What about Mildred is so likeable? Does she bring this trouble on herself, and if so, how? Is she a problem-solver and, if not, what skills does she need to work on?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Jill Murphy
- Genre : Adventure
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Candlewick Press
- Publication date : June 12, 2007
- Number of pages : 175
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate