Not Just a Witch
on Goodreads (105)
What’s inside...
Not Just a Witch is about a witch named Heckie who is not just any witch, but a good witch who wants to make the world a better place. Dial a Ghost is a crazy, hilarious adventure filled with eccentric spirits and bizarre human characters. This volume contains two of the author's stories, making it a delightful read for ages 7 and up.
Age
3-7
Length
123 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Hecate "Heckie" Tenbury-Smith
Daniel
Dora Mayberry
Lionel Knacksap
Discussion points
What do you think Hilda and Hexy learned about friendship by the end of the story?
How would you feel if you had magic powers like the characters in the book?
Why do you think it was important that Hilda and Hexy worked together?
Which character did you like the most and why?
How would you use magic to help others if you could?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think deeply about the characters and their actions. Ask them how they would act in similar situations. Relate the magic in the story to real-world scenarios where teamwork and understanding are essential. Praise your child’s responses to foster confidence in expressing their thoughts and feelings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: In 'Not Just a Witch', the characters demonstrate the value of forming and maintaining strong bonds with others despite differences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to appreciate and respect the uniqueness of each individual, helping them build stronger relationships.
Example Lesson: The power of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters work together to solve problems, highlighting how collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Young readers can see the benefits of working in groups at school or in sports, understanding that combined efforts often yield better results.
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist faces numerous challenges but keeps striving to overcome them, portraying determination.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to keep trying in the face of difficulties, whether it be in learning new skills or dealing with personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences
Explanation: Actions taken by characters in the story show direct consequences, teaching the importance of thinking before acting.
Real-World Application: This can help kids think critically about the consequences of their actions in daily life, fostering responsible decision-making.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: Characters in the book learn to understand and feel for others' situations, which is a crucial part of their development.
Real-World Application: Children learn to empathize with their peers, enabling them to be more supportive and kind-hearted in real-world social settings.