Ivy Newt and the Storm Witch

It is Ivy Newt’s birthday – but it is not going to be a happy one. A storm has prevented her friends from coming to her party. Never mind, her parents have prepared a real surprise – a magic disappearing act. Except they seem to have really disappeared. It is up to Ivy with the help of her familiar, Tom to find out what is going on…

This is a fast moving, enjoyable story from the pen of a well-established author. The plot gallops along, Ivy and shape-changing Tom are recognisable children who will engage their young audience and there is a satisfying mix of jeopardy and laughter. The wicked witch Clawdelia is suitably nasty. There are problems to face – but cake at the end. Keilty’s sure touch ensures the humour shines through without overwhelming the action. His prose is brisk and contemporary, his vocabulary rich.  Magda Brol’s lively illustrations and page decorations capture the spirit of the prose, adding a welcome visual element to the narrative. This would be ideal for confident KS1 readers as well as KS2 where well written extended texts that are fun and imaginative are important. It could also be a good book to share aloud. I hope we will see more of Ivy Newt and Tom.