What did Granny Wendy learn about trying new things, even when they are hard?

This is a discussion prompt for Wendy the Witch by Karen Dolby. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

How did George and Lottie show they loved their granny?

This is a discussion prompt for Wendy the Witch by Karen Dolby. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Have you ever had to help someone learn something new? What was it like?

This is a discussion prompt for Wendy the Witch by Karen Dolby. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What kind of spell would you try to learn if you went to Spell School?

This is a discussion prompt for Wendy the Witch by Karen Dolby. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Find on Amazon

Wendy the Witch

Name: Wendy the Witch
ISBN: 9780746027790

by Karen Dolby

Granny Wendy is struggling at witch school. Her grandkids and black cat help her master spells to save her witchy hat in this funny magical adventure.

About This Book

Granny Wendy is only halfway through her Learn to be a Witch Course, and she is not doing very well. In fact, unless she can start performing spells correctly, she might find herself expelled from Spell School altogether and lose her witchy hat and special spellbook. Her two grandchildren, George and Lottie, and her black cat, Felix, set out to help her.

Concepts

Resilience & Perseverance Love & Family Teamwork & Collaboration Self-Confidence & Identity Empathy & Kindness Joy & Gratitude Growing Up Fantasy & Magic Family & Siblings Cats Puzzles & Games

Wonderlit Review

Wendy the Witch is a sweet, accessible chapter book that centers on the endearing struggle of Granny Wendy, a witch-in-training who is not quite getting the hang of her spells. The narrative quickly establishes the stakes: Granny Wendy faces expulsion from Spell School if she can't improve. This gentle tension is immediately resolved by the loving intervention of her grandchildren, George and Lottie, and her cat, Felix, who become her dedicated helpers. The book handles the theme of struggle and perseverance with a light, humorous touch, making it relatable for young readers who might be facing their own learning challenges. The emotional arc is consistently uplifting, starting with a minor setback and moving towards a hopeful resolution through family support. This book is ideal for children aged 4-7 as a read-aloud, and 7-11 as an independent read, particularly those who enjoy stories about magic, family bonds, and overcoming challenges. A parent might reach for this when their child is feeling discouraged about learning a new skill or when they want to emphasize the importance of helping family members. There are no sensitive topics to preview; the tone is consistently warm and encouraging. Younger children will enjoy the silly spell mishaps and the idea of a witchy granny, while older children can appreciate the teamwork and the message of not giving up. Its focus on intergenerational support and the lighthearted approach to magical mishaps sets it apart from more intense fantasy stories.