Unfamiliar

Gr 7 Up–This graphic novel adaptation of a webcomic follows a kitchen witch named Planchette, who is great at using magic to create incredible food, but not so great at getting ghosts out of her new home. This story is set in a world filled with paranormal creatures like sirens and ghosts, as well as cute witches and their even cuter familiars. While several characters have internal and external problems that are holding them back, their friendships make them stronger and help them to overcome those problems. Readers will see how Planchette and her new friends help to solve one another’s problems, like learning how to go beyond garlic and holy water and actually talking to the ghosts to figure out how to help them move on. Newsome’s artwork is colorful, cartoony, and whimsical, filled with stars and sparkles, and it gives this story even more appeal. Reading this sweet, funny, and uplifting story will feel like curling up under a warm blanket, and it will be a soothing balm for readers who want to escape from their own problems for a while.