The Okay Witch by Emma Steinkellner

The Okay Witch by Emma Steinkellner

My Rating: ★★★★★

I received a copy from Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Moth Hush has never fit in her small town. It’s okay because she has her mom, but she wishes she could make a friend or at least finally fit in enough to stop getting picked on by her peers. Everything changes on one glorious Halloween. Not only does she make a friend, but she discovers that she’s a witch! Coming into the magic she didn’t know runs through her family is the coolest thing that’s ever happened to her. Unfortunately, her mom swore off magic before she was born and doesn’t want to teach Moth a thing. In fact, she has a no magic rule. Falling face first into very real centuries old witch hunt, things quickly get out of control and she comes into her own right in the middle of it all.

I’m a huge fan of all things witches so I was very excited when I saw this book because it sounded cute, inspiring, and right up my alley. I was not disappointed because Emma Steinkellner had me glued to every page and ready to see what happens next. I love Moth as a character. She doesn’t fit in and she’s lonely, but she marches to the beat of her own drum and doesn’t let it get in the way of her interests.

The storytelling and artwork go hand in hand and tell a beautiful story about a 13-year-old girl finding who she is at an age where everyone is still confused about who they are and who they want to be. Moth is extremely relatable, and I think that any kid who has been picked on or bullied can see a piece of themselves in Moth. I love that she’s outspoken, thoughtful, and makes mistakes along the way.

Alongside Moth is a great cast of characters ranging from her mom and new friend to a helpful ghost and a group of witches who just want fellow witches to be safe and happy. I love the way that Moth’s family history, which is tied into the true history of her small town, are presented and explained through a series of flashbacks. I was so absorbed in the story at this point that my phone rang, scaring me, and I was waiting for that call when I started reading!

At its core, this is a story of friendship, family, and compromising rather than trying to force love ones to do what one thinks is best for them. I loved seeing Moth and company become a strong unit as she comes into her own and finds the confidence and strength to help and save the people she loves. I absolutely love the story and the artwork and I am looking forward to reading more of Steinkellner’s work in the future.