For generations, witches have cast a spell over children’s literature, captivating young imaginations with their magical powers, fascinating familiars, and thrilling broomstick adventures. Whether cackling with wicked intent or sparkling with kind magic, these characters offer young minds a fascinating gateway to explore themes of power, self-discovery, and the timeless battle between good and evil.
If you’re ready to dive into tales of spells, potions, and magical mishaps, this collection gathers the most captivating children’s book about a witches. Featuring everything from enchanting picture books for the youngest spellcasters to thrilling chapter books for older adventurers, these stories are sure to bewitch hearts and minds alike.
The Magic of Witch Characters in Children’s Literature
Witches hold a truly special place in children’s hearts for a powerful reason. These enchanting characters offer young readers a safe way to explore complex emotions about power and fear within the pages of a story. The evolution of witch portrayals over time—moving from the purely wicked figures of classic fairy tales to the complex. Sometimes, even heroic witches appear in modern tales. It beautifully mirrors our own changing understanding of differences and cultural values.
Stepping into worlds of magic, witch stories often serve as a thrilling first introduction to fantasy literature for many children. The witch is a figure found in folktales across the globe, giving these stories a magic that feels universally familiar. Whether they’re bubbling potions, soaring on broomsticks, or weaving intricate spells, witches continue to ignite imaginations and share timeless lessons about courage, kindness, and acceptance.
20 Best Children’s Books About a Witch
1. Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson
This delightful picture book tells the story of a kind witch who keeps making room on her broom for various animal friends. When danger strikes, her newfound companions come to her rescue. With its rhythmic text and colorful illustrations, this book teaches young readers about friendship and generosity.
2. The Worst Witch series by Jill Murphy
Following the misadventures of Mildred Hubble at Miss Cackle’s Academy for Witches, this beloved series has enchanted generations of young readers. Mildred’s well-intentioned mishaps and struggles to master her magical abilities resonate with anyone who has ever felt like they don’t quite fit in. Perfect for elementary school readers.
3. Little Witch by Anna Elizabeth Bennett
This charming novel follows nine-year-old Minx, a little witch who would rather go to school with ordinary children than learn spells from her mean witch mother. It’s a heartwarming tale about following your path, even when it differs from family expectations.
4. Witches by Roald Dahl
In this classic tale, Dahl introduces readers to witches who look like ordinary women but harbor a deadly hatred for children. When a young boy and his grandmother uncover a witch convention, they must use their wits to defeat the Grand High Witch’s evil plan. Though some elements may be scary for very young readers, this book remains a thrilling adventure for middle-grade children.
5. Kiki’s Delivery Service by Eiko Kadono
Made famous by the Studio Ghibli film, this Japanese children’s novel follows young witch Kiki as she sets out on her own at age 13, starting a delivery service using her flying ability. It’s a sweet coming-of-age story about independence, finding your talents, and building community.
6. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
This Newbery Medal-winning fantasy novel tells the story of Luna, a girl accidentally filled with moon magic as a baby and raised by a kind witch named Xan. As Luna approaches her thirteenth birthday, her magic begins to emerge with unexpected consequences. This lyrical, complex tale is perfect for older elementary and middle school readers.
7. Witch Boy by Molly Knox Ostertag
In this graphic novel, thirteen-year-old Aster breaks with tradition by pursuing witchcraft instead of becoming a shapeshifter like the other boys in his family. When danger threatens his community, Aster must use his forbidden witch knowledge to save the day. This book sensitively explores gender roles and finding your authentic self.
8. Witches of Brooklyn by Sophie Escabasse
This graphic novel follows Effie, who discovers she comes from a family of witches after moving in with her eccentric aunts in Brooklyn. As Effie learns to navigate her newfound magical abilities, she also processes grief and finds a new sense of belonging. The diverse characters and urban setting make this a refreshing addition to witch literature.
9. Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch by Julie Abe
Eva has only a pinch of magic, but she’s determined to pass her witch’s test and save her seaside town from a mysterious darkness. This Japanese-inspired fantasy celebrates perseverance and finding strength in what makes you different. Perfect for fans of gentle fantasy with heart.
10. Love Sugar Magic series by Anna Meriano
When Leo Logroño discovers her family’s bakery uses actual magic in their recipes, she can’t wait to join the family tradition. Unfortunately, as the youngest, she must wait until she’s older—unless she experiments on her own. This series weaves together Mexican American culture, magic, and family dynamics in a delightful coming-of-age story.
11. Meg and Mog series by Helen Nicoll and Jan Pieńkowski
These boldly illustrated picture books follow witch Meg and her cat Mog through simple, colorful adventures perfect for preschoolers. The striking visuals and straightforward stories make these books excellent choices for very young readers just discovering the world of witches.
12. Heckedy Peg by Audrey Wood
In this suspenseful picture book, a mother must save her children after they’ve been kidnapped and transformed into food by a wicked witch. The dark fairy tale elements are balanced by the mother’s devotion and cleverness, creating a thrilling read-aloud experience for brave young listeners.
13. Strega Nona by Tomie dePaola
Strega Nona (“Grandma Witch” in Italian) is a beloved healer who helps her community with magical remedies. When her assistant Big Anthony misuses her magic pasta pot, chaos ensues. This Caldecott Honor book introduces children to a benevolent witch character while teaching responsibility.
14. The Witches of Benevento series by John Bemelmans Marciano
Set in a small Italian village famous for its witches, this chapter book series follows five cousins as they encounter various magical beings. Richly illustrated and steeped in Italian folklore, these books bring historical witch legends to life for young readers.
15. The Apprentice Witch by James Nicol
When Arianwyn fails her witch’s evaluation, she’s still sent to the remote town of Lull as their resident witch. Despite her “apprentice” status, she must face dark forces threatening the community. This coming-of-age story emphasizes perseverance and self-belief.
16. Amelia Fang and the Memory Thief by Laura Ellen Anderson
Part of a charming series set in the world of Nocturia, this book features Amelia Fang—a vampire girl—and her friend Florence the yeti witch. When memories start disappearing throughout their world, they must solve the mystery. The witch elements are woven into a delightful supernatural universe perfect for early chapter book readers.
17. The Power of Poppy Pendle by Natasha Lowe
Poppy Pendle has extraordinary magical powers but would rather bake than cast spells. When her parents force her to attend witch school, Poppy runs away to pursue her passion. This sweet novel explores following your dreams even when they don’t match others’ expectations.
18. Polly and Buster: The Wayward Witch by Sally Rippin
Polly (a witch) and Buster (a monster) maintain a forbidden friendship in a world where witches and monsters are enemies. This heartwarming chapter book series explores themes of prejudice and courage while celebrating the power of friendship to overcome barriers.
19. The Witch’s Guide to Cooking with Children by Keith McGowan
In this modern retelling of “Hansel and Gretel,” siblings Sol and Connie discover their neighbor is a witch with a taste for children. With its dark humor and clever protagonists, this book appeals to middle-grade readers who enjoy a spine-tingling tale with a twist.
20. Diary of a Pug: Pug’s Snow Day by Kyla May
Part of the “Diary of a Pug” series, this early reader book features Bub the pug, whose owner is a witch named Bella. When Bella creates magical snow that won’t melt, Bub must help solve the resulting problems. The witch elements are a gentle background for this accessible early chapter book.
Frequently Asked Questions
What books are based on the discovery of witches?
Several children’s books feature characters discovering they are witches. Notable titles include:
- Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch by Julie Abe
- The Power of Poppy Pendle by Natasha Lowe
- Love Sugar Magic by Anna Meriano
- The Apprentice Witch by James Nicol
- Witches of Brooklyn by Sophie Escabasse
What are some non-scary witch books for young children?
Many witch books for preschoolers and young children are not scary. Examples include:
- Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson
- Meg and Mog series by Helen Nicoll
- Little Witch series by Deborah Hautzig
- The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything by Linda Williams
What is the book series about witches in school?
The most famous children’s witch school series is The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy. It follows Mildred Hubble’s adventures at Miss Cackle’s Academy. The Apprentice Witch by James Nicol is another series involving magical training.
What is a book about autistic girls and witches?
There is no single widely known children’s book explicitly about an autistic girl and witches. Recent children’s literature does feature more neurodivergent characters or those who perceive the world uniquely in magical settings, such as in books like The Witch Boy by Molly Knox Ostertag.
What is a children’s book about a witch and a pumpkin?
Children’s picture books featuring witches and pumpkins, often for Halloween, include:
- The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything by Linda Williams
- The Roll-Away Pumpkin by Junia Wonders
- Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson (often associated with Halloween)
What is the story behind witches and black cats?
The association between witches and black cats dates back to medieval Europe. During witch hunts, women with cat companions were suspected. This evolved in literature to the witch’s familiar trope—a magical animal companion, seen in books like Meg and Mog.
Who is a famous author of children’s witch books?
A very famous author of children’s witch books is Jill Murphy, known for The Worst Witch series. Julia Donaldson is also well-known for picture books featuring friendly witches, like Room on the Broom.
What Netflix series is based on witchcraft books for children?
Netflix has an adaptation of The Worst Witch children’s book series by Jill Murphy. The more teen-focused Chilling Adventures of Sabrina is also based on witchcraft comics.
What age are the Worst Witch books for?
The Worst Witch books by Jill Murphy are recommended for children ages 7 to 11. They feature relatable school settings and mild magical adventures suitable for this age group.
Conclusion
Which characters in children’s literature have evolved from one-dimensional villains to complex individuals with unique personalities, challenges, and gifts? This transformation reflects our society’s growing appreciation for diversity and understanding of differences.
The best witch books for children balance magical elements with relatable themes: finding your place, discovering your talents, overcoming obstacles, and building relationships. Whether your child is drawn to spooky stories, magical adventures, or tales of friendship, there’s a witch book that will cast its spell on them.
When selecting witch books for your young reader, consider their age, reading level, and sensitivity to scary elements. The books on this list range from gentle picture books suitable for preschoolers to more complex novels for middle-grade readers, ensuring every child can find their perfect magical match.
Happy reading, and may these enchanting tales work their magic on your child’s imagination!
