LILLA THE ACCIDENTAL WITCH

Finding out she’s a witch isn’t the only revelation Lilla has about her identity while she’s away from home.

Thirteen-year-old Lilla and her older sister, Dani, fly to Italy to spend time with their aunt. For Dani, this means reuniting with the Italian boy she likes, but Lilla feels uncomfortable thinking about boys and love: She has always felt different, but she’s shocked when a mysterious book magically appears and reveals she’s a witch. The book helps her learn to use her new powers and teaches her about supernatural beings. What she doesn’t know is that something dangerous is lurking, and the only way to be safe will be to accept truths about herself and everything that encompasses who she is. This gentle yet somewhat spooky story deftly balances realistic plotlines of sisterhood, growing up, and sexual orientation with fantasy elements of magic and unusual creatures. The Italian setting, with bits of the language peppered in, is richly portrayed. Muted colors fill crisp, unlined panels on white pages that match the soft tone of the story, and minimalistic facial features highlight the characters’ emotions. The magical moments are particularly visually compelling with their glowy light. A hopeful, joyous ending makes this story one to savor. Main characters read as White; the sisters’ aunt’s boyfriend is Black.

Growing up and coming out are slightly scary but wonderfully magical in this appealing and optimistic tale.