Mischief Season

A parent would reach for this book when their child is navigating the space between childhood play and the nervous thrill of the unknown. It is perfect for children who love folklore and spooky secrets but may feel easily overwhelmed by darker horror. Set in the ancient Italian town of Benevento, the story follows five cousins as they use their wits to outsmart various local witches during the Mischief Season. It highlights the power of sibling and cousin bonds while celebrating cleverness over brute strength. At its heart, this book is about bravery and the realization that even things that seem scary can be understood or outmaneuvered with a little teamwork. The 128-page format with illustrations makes it a gentle bridge for young readers transitioning into longer chapter books. It offers a wonderful way to discuss heritage, as it is steeped in real Italian folklore, providing a magical lens through which children can view history and family traditions.