Picture Book

Wizzil by William Steig (author) and Quentin Blake (illustrator). New York: Square Fish, 2015.

Summary: Wizzil tells the story of a bored witch named Wizzil and her parrot Beatrice, who decide to torment the Frimp family on a nearby farm. The book follows a series of humorous antics to a surprising ending.

Awards: 2000 Booklist Starred Review

Target Audience: Ages 4-8

Strengths: Humorous story and engaging watercolor illustrations; fun and colorful language; introduces young readers to complex characters through relatable situations

Weaknesses: Some language may be too advanced for the recommended age group (examples: "incognito" and "lit on his bald pate"); problematic character arc wherein the mean, nasty witch is transformed into a nice, feminine lady through the love of a man

Meaningful/Creative Uses: This book would be a good option for teaching metaphors, similes, alliteration, and other figures of speech. It might also generate a discussion on the concepts of kindness, boredom, naivete, and forgiveness.

Read-alikes

Sylvester and the Magic Pebble (30th Anniversary Edition) by William Steig. New York: Scholastic, 1999.

Originally published by Simon & Schuster in 1969, this book is written and illustrated by Steig and includes magical elements similar to Wizzil. It tells the story of Sylvester who discovers a magical pebble and learns the lesson to be careful what you wish for. Winner of the 1970 Caldecott Medal. For ages 5-8.

Mister Magnolia by Quentin Blake. London: Red Fox, 2020.

Winner of the Kate Greenaway Medal in 1980, Mister Magnolia is a picture book written and illustrated by Wizzil illustrator Quentin Blake. Through rhyme, it tells the story of a man who has a wonderful life except for one problem - he has only one boot. Includes similar illustrations and humor to Wizzil. For ages 5-8.

Hansel & Gretel by Bethan Woollvin. Atlanta: Peachtree Publishing Company, 2018.

From award-winning author/illustrator Bethan Woollvin comes a subversive retelling of the Hansel and Gretel fairy tale from the witch's perspective. Striking illustrations and a humorous twist make it a good companion to Wizzel. For ages 5-9.