
Reach for this book when your child is beginning to crave more independence but still finds comfort in the cozy safety of home. It is a perfect choice for the young reader who looks at everyday objects, like an old ring or a stray cat, and wonders if there might be a secret world hidden just out of sight. The story balances the thrill of magic with the grounded reality of sibling dynamics and the importance of taking care of what we find. In this gentle adventure, a brother and sister discover a magic ring that introduces them to a mysterious witch and her clever cat. Unlike many high-stakes fantasy novels, the magic here is manageable and domestic, focusing on the responsibility that comes with power. It is an ideal bridge for children moving from early readers to longer chapter books, offering a sense of wonder without overwhelming them with darkness or complex world-building.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewThe book is entirely secular and lighthearted. There are no heavy themes of grief or trauma. The witch is a traditional, slightly mischievous figure rather than a dark or occult presence. Potential peril is resolved quickly and hopefully.
An 8-year-old who loves animal stories and is starting to enjoy light 'urban fantasy' where magic happens in a normal house. It's especially good for siblings who need to see a model of cooperative problem-solving.
The book can be read cold. It is a classic Scholastic-era fantasy that relies on whimsical logic rather than complex rules. Parents might want to discuss the idea of 'finders keepers' versus responsibility. A parent might choose this after seeing their child become obsessed with 'secrets' or after noticing the child is ready for a longer story but gets easily scared by intense villains.
Younger children (7) will focus on the magic and the cat, Shadow. Older children (9-10) will appreciate the humor in the witch's personality and the logistical challenges the siblings face while keeping magic a secret from adults.
Ruth Chew is a master of 'matter-of-fact magic.' Unlike epic fantasy, this book makes magic feel like something that could actually happen in your own neighborhood tomorrow morning.
Siblings find a mysterious ring that grants wishes and summons a witch named Volumnia and her cat, Shadow. The children must navigate the consequences of their magical discoveries, learning how to handle power and the unpredictable nature of an eccentric witch who isn't always easy to manage.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.