What the Hex?!

Gr 3-7–Brooklyn’s community of witches expands as Effie, who appears to be Asian, officially joins her aunts’ circle. Beyond magic and spells, the members of this inclusive group “all have one thing in common.... They’re all people taking care of people.” Effie’s social life includes Oliver, who is white; Berrit, who is tan; and a new classmate from France, Garance, who is Black. Garance’s quick and easy popularity vexes Effie and distracts her from her studies, whether in school or the magic arts. Self-centered frustration gives way to reflection as Effie eventually welcomes Garance into her community. Escabasse’s artwork depicts many kinds of magic throughout wintry Brooklyn, whether in the form of a goose-shaped seeing-eye cane, meditation circle, transformations, or communication between spirits. The cast’s many coats and sweaters keep them and the visuals bright and cozy.