Cute first chapter book. A touch of magic and its consequences. I think this would be a fun series for a child just beginning to read chapter books. I liked that the brother and sister worked well together as a team. Allowing each other room to make mistakes, but not holding the results against them. A little simple for my taste, but I haven't been reading a lot for this reading level. ( )

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Apparently this is one of Chew's later 'eccentric witch' stories. It's written carefully, and shows the author's depth of experience. For example, the reason the children don't tell their parents about the mysterious events is (briefly), rather than just based on children's (supposed natural) sense of privacy. I also liked learning about mulberry trees - I only knew them from the rhyme when I was a child, and now that I live in CC NV I see some lawns have them... but this little story reveals that those fruits that look like blackberries are indeed good to eat.

Anyway, Chew was also careful to make this book's reading level only 2.2. The interest level is definitely age 5-10, but the lower reading level means that more kids will read this, and hopefully then pick up her other books, too.

It is, like her others, more than just a paranormal adventure. Themes of courage, honesty, and animal rights are present in this one.

I will continue to search thrift stores for more books by Chew. They are probably usually worth about 3.5 stars, but I just love 'em. ( )