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The Witch of Woodland
Laurel Snyder, author of Orphan Island, returns with a story of one girl's quest to answer the seemingly unanswerable questions about what makes us who we are.
Hi, whoever is reading this. I'm Zipporah Chava McConnell, but everyone calls me Zippy.
Things used to be simple--until a few weeks ago. Now my best friend, Bea, is acting funny; everyone at school thinks I'm weird; and my mom is making me start preparing for my bat mitzvah, even though we barely ever go to synagogue. In fact, the only thing that still seems to make sense is magic.
See, the thing is, I'm a witch. I've been casting spells since I was little. And even if no one else wants to believe in magic anymore, it's always made sense to me, always felt true. But I was still shocked the day I found a strange red book at the library and somehow...I conjured something. A girl, actually. A beautiful girl with no memory, and wings like an angel. You probably don't believe me, but I swear it's the truth.
Miriam is like no one else I've ever met. She's proof that magic is real. And, it's hard to explain this part, but I just know that we're connected. That means it's up to me to help Miriam figure out what she is and where she came from. If I can do that, maybe everything else in my life will start to make sense too.
Anyway, it's worth a try.
Hi, whoever is reading this. I'm Zipporah Chava McConnell, but everyone calls me Zippy.
Things used to be simple--until a few weeks ago. Now my best friend, Bea, is acting funny; everyone at school thinks I'm weird; and my mom is making me start preparing for my bat mitzvah, even though we barely ever go to synagogue. In fact, the only thing that still seems to make sense is magic.
See, the thing is, I'm a witch. I've been casting spells since I was little. And even if no one else wants to believe in magic anymore, it's always made sense to me, always felt true. But I was still shocked the day I found a strange red book at the library and somehow...I conjured something. A girl, actually. A beautiful girl with no memory, and wings like an angel. You probably don't believe me, but I swear it's the truth.
Miriam is like no one else I've ever met. She's proof that magic is real. And, it's hard to explain this part, but I just know that we're connected. That means it's up to me to help Miriam figure out what she is and where she came from. If I can do that, maybe everything else in my life will start to make sense too.
Anyway, it's worth a try.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published May 16, 2023
About the author
Laurel Snyder
35 books796 followersLaurel Snyder is the author of six children's novels, "Orphan Island," "Seven Stories Up," "Bigger than a Bread Box," "Penny Dreadful," "Up and Down the Scratchy Mountains OR The Search for a Suitable Princess" and "Any Which Wall" (Random House) as well as many picture books, including "Charlie & Mouse," "The Forever Garden," "Swan, the life and dance of Anna Pavlova," and "Baxter, the Pig Who Wanted to Be Kosher."
A graduate of the Iowa Writers' Workshop and a former Michener Fellow, she also writes books for grownups, and is the author of a book of poems, "The Myth of the Simple Machines" (No Tell Books) and a chapbook, "Daphne & Jim: a choose-your-own-adventure biography in verse (Burnside Review Press) and the editor of an anthology, "Half/Life: Jew-ish Tales from Interfaith Homes" (Soft Skull Press).
Though Baltimore will always be her home, she now lives happily in Atlanta.
A graduate of the Iowa Writers' Workshop and a former Michener Fellow, she also writes books for grownups, and is the author of a book of poems, "The Myth of the Simple Machines" (No Tell Books) and a chapbook, "Daphne & Jim: a choose-your-own-adventure biography in verse (Burnside Review Press) and the editor of an anthology, "Half/Life: Jew-ish Tales from Interfaith Homes" (Soft Skull Press).
Though Baltimore will always be her home, she now lives happily in Atlanta.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
July 16, 2023
This was fabulous, and went in a very different direction from what I had thought it would. It's not just a witch origin story, with a little bit of Jewishness thrown in. It's very much a "coming of age" story about a young Jewish girl who knows that she's a witch, and who is more fascinated by her "witch side" than her "Jewish side."
Zippy, who is precious and whom I instantly adored, has a lot going on. I mean, just in general: school and changing friendships and puberty . . . then to add in Hebrew lessons to prep for a bat mitzvah she isn't sure she wants and now something's finally happening with her magic. It's a whole lot to take in, especially for someone like Zippy who doesn't like surprises. (I'm with her 100%. Especially since surprises in middle school are rarely the nice kind, and more often the kind your parents spring on your for your own good.)
I will be immediately passing this on to my 14yo, and I know she's going to love it too.
Zippy, who is precious and whom I instantly adored, has a lot going on. I mean, just in general: school and changing friendships and puberty . . . then to add in Hebrew lessons to prep for a bat mitzvah she isn't sure she wants and now something's finally happening with her magic. It's a whole lot to take in, especially for someone like Zippy who doesn't like surprises. (I'm with her 100%. Especially since surprises in middle school are rarely the nice kind, and more often the kind your parents spring on your for your own good.)
I will be immediately passing this on to my 14yo, and I know she's going to love it too.
January 23, 2023
What a roller coaster this book was, in good and bad ways. I connected really strongly with Zippy's feelings of social isolation and difference from her friends; some of this could literally be ripped from the pages of my own middle school diary. Laurel Snyder just has a way of writing books that make you think about what things even mean. I have to confess that Orphan Island was a book I just didn't think was "for me"' but now I want to go back and re-read it to see if my feelings change (I bet they will).
I received an eARC copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I received an eARC copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
July 3, 2023
It took me a while to get absorbed by this story, as it starts with middle school friendship woes--one best friend wanting to leave childhood behind, the other (main character) not ready. And I found the mc a bit frustrating. But once the mc magically summons a spirit girl, the story starts roaring along, and became magical and fulfilling.
May 25, 2023
A unique and epic story of a girl who summons something that will change her life forever.
Zipporah Chava McConnell, or Zippy, a 13-year-old girl, wants to write a memoir about her exciting adventure. Everything started changing when her best friend, Bea, tried to broaden their friend group, which Zippy didn't want. And Zippy has to prepare for her upcoming Bat Mitzvah. If that wasn't enough, Zippy finds a mysterious red book at the library. Oh, I almost forgot, she is a witch! Within the red book lies a message that summons some Jewish folktale creature, and Bam! A mysterious creature appears that Zippy calls Miriam. But Miriam needs to remember who she is and where she comes from, so it's up to Zippy to help her.
What a brilliant and unique story. Each chapter starts like it's Zippy writing a book and telling us what story elements (prologue, establishing character, etc.) Zippy has to incorporate it to make a great story.
I learned new things about Judaism in this book. For example, I learned about the fall holidays and the classes needed to prepare for the Bat Mitzvah. Also, I learned a bit about Jewish folktales and Zippy's witchcraft which was very cool.
My second favorite part of this story, next to the plot, is the characters' development.
Zippy is a shy and witchy person. She is incredible at her magic and always speaks her mind. It's already hard to be 12 years old (friendship problems, coming-of-age), and she is trying to figure out her spirituality. I bond with the character Zippy. She is a relatable heroine.
Bea is your average teenager, and Miriam is a mysterious and complex character. I would have liked to know more about her.
Give this book to anyone (coming-of-age) who feels like an outsider or someone looking to learn about the Jewish faith with spiced-up magical elements.
Thank you, publishers, for sharing this excellent book.
Zipporah Chava McConnell, or Zippy, a 13-year-old girl, wants to write a memoir about her exciting adventure. Everything started changing when her best friend, Bea, tried to broaden their friend group, which Zippy didn't want. And Zippy has to prepare for her upcoming Bat Mitzvah. If that wasn't enough, Zippy finds a mysterious red book at the library. Oh, I almost forgot, she is a witch! Within the red book lies a message that summons some Jewish folktale creature, and Bam! A mysterious creature appears that Zippy calls Miriam. But Miriam needs to remember who she is and where she comes from, so it's up to Zippy to help her.
What a brilliant and unique story. Each chapter starts like it's Zippy writing a book and telling us what story elements (prologue, establishing character, etc.) Zippy has to incorporate it to make a great story.
I learned new things about Judaism in this book. For example, I learned about the fall holidays and the classes needed to prepare for the Bat Mitzvah. Also, I learned a bit about Jewish folktales and Zippy's witchcraft which was very cool.
My second favorite part of this story, next to the plot, is the characters' development.
Zippy is a shy and witchy person. She is incredible at her magic and always speaks her mind. It's already hard to be 12 years old (friendship problems, coming-of-age), and she is trying to figure out her spirituality. I bond with the character Zippy. She is a relatable heroine.
Bea is your average teenager, and Miriam is a mysterious and complex character. I would have liked to know more about her.
Give this book to anyone (coming-of-age) who feels like an outsider or someone looking to learn about the Jewish faith with spiced-up magical elements.
Thank you, publishers, for sharing this excellent book.
February 10, 2023
The Witch of Woodland captivated me, as Laurel Snyder's middle grades books always do.
Laurel writes characters that feel so viscerally present that I expect them to come banging through the front door of the bookstore to ask a question or pick out a book or just sit and chat with me. And Laurel's characters constantly remind me how difficult it really is to navigate the 11-12 year old years. Her writing makes me more compassionate with my own 12 year old daughter--and it invites me to embrace grace for who I used to be 35 years ago. And who I'm still becoming now.
Zippy's journey to understand her own spirituality and her place in Jewish life resonated with me. I was very busy trying to figure out my own spirituality at that age, too. I was an evangelical kid with a bunch of Jewish friends--so I felt out of place often. And I was entranced by the community and the sense of ritual and connection of the mundane & divine that my Jewish friends seemed to exist in. So, when Zippy shows up in this book and starts fumbling her way toward an understanding of her Jewishness--I was 100% there for it.
I learned a lot about Jewish culture/spirituality from Zippy's experience, without feeling like I was learning something (which is the best way to learn, in my opinion).
As a parent reading this book, sometimes I wanted to shake Zippy (gently, of course) and beg her to just fit in a little more (she's a witch, too--which causes a bit of a kerfuffle in the seventh grade). But that's why Laurel's writing is perfect for kids. Because Zippy isn't going to compromise--and kids, well, they get that in a way that I think most adults forget over time.
Every time I had to put this book down, I wondered how Zippy was getting along. I was in it to win it with this girl. And I absolutely powered through the last quarter of the book, unraveling the mystery/danger Zippy finds herself in. I. needed. to. know!
Zippy will capture your heart & then break it. But then you'll get the chance to cheer her on as she comes into her own--as kids so often do.
Get it from Bookish: https://bookshop.org/a/4334/978006283...
Laurel writes characters that feel so viscerally present that I expect them to come banging through the front door of the bookstore to ask a question or pick out a book or just sit and chat with me. And Laurel's characters constantly remind me how difficult it really is to navigate the 11-12 year old years. Her writing makes me more compassionate with my own 12 year old daughter--and it invites me to embrace grace for who I used to be 35 years ago. And who I'm still becoming now.
Zippy's journey to understand her own spirituality and her place in Jewish life resonated with me. I was very busy trying to figure out my own spirituality at that age, too. I was an evangelical kid with a bunch of Jewish friends--so I felt out of place often. And I was entranced by the community and the sense of ritual and connection of the mundane & divine that my Jewish friends seemed to exist in. So, when Zippy shows up in this book and starts fumbling her way toward an understanding of her Jewishness--I was 100% there for it.
I learned a lot about Jewish culture/spirituality from Zippy's experience, without feeling like I was learning something (which is the best way to learn, in my opinion).
As a parent reading this book, sometimes I wanted to shake Zippy (gently, of course) and beg her to just fit in a little more (she's a witch, too--which causes a bit of a kerfuffle in the seventh grade). But that's why Laurel's writing is perfect for kids. Because Zippy isn't going to compromise--and kids, well, they get that in a way that I think most adults forget over time.
Every time I had to put this book down, I wondered how Zippy was getting along. I was in it to win it with this girl. And I absolutely powered through the last quarter of the book, unraveling the mystery/danger Zippy finds herself in. I. needed. to. know!
Zippy will capture your heart & then break it. But then you'll get the chance to cheer her on as she comes into her own--as kids so often do.
Get it from Bookish: https://bookshop.org/a/4334/978006283...
December 10, 2022
EARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Laurel Snyder does not disappoint with her latest book. It’s perfect for middle grade readers with a main character who is working through friendship problems, is growing in her family’s faith, and stumbled upon a little magic!
Laurel Snyder does not disappoint with her latest book. It’s perfect for middle grade readers with a main character who is working through friendship problems, is growing in her family’s faith, and stumbled upon a little magic!
November 7, 2023
Sooo long, drawn out and poorly written. I understand that it’s supposed to be mock written by a middle schooler but it was a bit much.
January 25, 2024
Zippy, an insightful and unforgettable character, is writing a book about the fantastical events that have happened as she navigates middle school - the isolation, changing friendships, and learning more about what it means to be Jewish. The twist - she is a witch, and manages to summon forth a Jewish folklore creature. Absolutely fun! Lit Review Crew Laurel Snyder ❤️📚
June 18, 2023
I really enjoyed the beginning of this book, I loved how it was from a pre-teen's perspective navigating life, friends, and growth.
September 16, 2023
A delightful middle grade story of friendship and middle school and finding your own way.
Shelved as 'unfinished'
May 26, 2024I was highly enjoying the Jewish representation in this, but unfortunately, the magic aspect and especially how she received her powers was too creepy for me. I decided to DNF. ;)
February 24, 2023
Laurel Snyder’s new middle grades novel is magical! Somehow, she’s made fantasy nearly realistic. Zippy’s story seems real because the setting, description, and dialogue are all true-to-life. I’ve spent just a little time in:near Atlanta, and Snyder’s description of the heat was spot on. When she describes flying over the city at night, you can truly see scene.
As a middle school teacher, my favorite books are the ones depicting parents as they truly are - imperfect. When we see parental decisions through the eyes of a child, and the author is on the child’s “side,” it changes everything. Snyder does this so well through the decisions Zippy’s parents make about her religious upbringing. We get to see that, just maybe, kids are right when they question their parents’ decision making! I love that,
What I will remember about and love about this book forever is that it parallels the journey my best friend and I took - though ours happened later - as our friendship stretched and changed. I think so many readers will relate, and I hope this book will help save some important friendships by showing readers that we can grow without growing apart.
Finally, I really appreciated the education I received about the Jewish faith through this book. I knew very little, and I think Snyder’s motivation to write this book is admirable. I’m thankful she shared “her” story.
As a middle school teacher, my favorite books are the ones depicting parents as they truly are - imperfect. When we see parental decisions through the eyes of a child, and the author is on the child’s “side,” it changes everything. Snyder does this so well through the decisions Zippy’s parents make about her religious upbringing. We get to see that, just maybe, kids are right when they question their parents’ decision making! I love that,
What I will remember about and love about this book forever is that it parallels the journey my best friend and I took - though ours happened later - as our friendship stretched and changed. I think so many readers will relate, and I hope this book will help save some important friendships by showing readers that we can grow without growing apart.
Finally, I really appreciated the education I received about the Jewish faith through this book. I knew very little, and I think Snyder’s motivation to write this book is admirable. I’m thankful she shared “her” story.
July 1, 2024
The witch of woodland is about a girl who is a witch and her name is zippy. Zippy is a jewish girl. She summoned a spirit. But when they touch they swap memories. But when she try’s to let her go she could not because she was too sad to do it maybe it’s because her friend bee had a period and they’re not really friends anymore. But at the end of the book 📖 she did it. By mollie 🙊 (age 9)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2023
Long, informational as much as fictional. The cover doesn’t match the main character or story to me.
January 11, 2024
I was very excited when I found this to read with ny daughter because it would open up new things to talk about. But on boy is zippy annoying. I started reading and it was so so hard to force myself to keep going. I thought it was just an adult thing, so I started reading to ny daughter and she could not understand why zippy was so mean to everyone especially her best friend. My daughter asked not to finish the book. I see what was trying to be done by the author, but it just did not work.
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January 9, 2024This review first appeared on my blog BookishlyJewish Check it out for similar reviews and content.
Jewish middle grade books often feature a rite of passage called, depending on what culture the character is from, either a bat mitzvah, bar mitzvah, b'nei mitzvah or the newer phrase zerah mitzvah. Suffice it to say that all these terms are for a life cycle event celebrating the transition from immature childhood to emotional and spiritual maturity. It is a ceremony meant to mark the ability of the individual to take responsibility for their own actions while simultaneously having the community embrace and support them. This is done in different ways in different steams of Judaism, and as my own bat mitzvah was fairly low key I always enjoy reading about how other cultures and individual personalities celebrate their event. Including those, like main character Zippy from Laurel Snyder's MG fantasy The Witch of Woodland, who were not intending to celebrate at all.
Zippy, which is short for Zipporah, is an only child from a family that identifies as reform Jewish and mostly attends services for the high holidays. She has to miss school for Jewish holidays, resulting in extra school work, and does not attend Jewish after school like some other young people from her Synagouge so she is surprised when her mother decides that she is to have a bat mitzvah, including leading prayer services in Hebrew. She is specially concerned because she’s not entirely sure she believes in any of the faith aspects of Judaism. The Rabbi is encouraging, even pointing out that her questioning of faith is in itself a very Jewish concept, and encouraging Zippy to be welcomed into their community.
Turning twelve has not exactly been simple for Zippy. She feels left behind by her classmates, who are suddenly interested in dating and lip gloss, while Zippy is more interested in witchcraft and spells. She’s even losing her best friend who wants to hang out with the cool crowd and cannot understand why Zippy won’t at least try to go on this journey with her. The addition of new religious obligations isn’t helping matters. Which is why Zippy, performing a spell in desperation, manages to summon a magical winged girl named Miriam who seems to need Zippy just as much as Zippy needs a friend.
The Zippy/Miriam relationship is complicated but so is the Zippy/Torah relationship. Her bat mitzvah parsha, Mishpatim, is not what she expected. In her own words, it’s “wackadoodle” and even the grown ups in her life seem surprised and uncomfortable when they realize what they have actually asked her to read. Except the Rabbi. He handles the entire thing with aplomb, praising Zippy’s willingness to engage with the text.
Indeed Zippy’s engagement with the text is a lesson in both perspective and how grown ups underestimate teens. When Zippy discovers the sentence ��though shalt not tolerate a sorceress to live,” in her parsha her response is not the abject horror I would expect a self proclaimed witch to feel. It’s delight that the Torah acknowledges witchcraft and a mild annoyance with the people in her life for not sharing this crucial fact with her. Eventually, she gets around to dealing with why witchcraft was prohibited and how to read the Torah in a modern context. She also deals with the mysterious amnesiac magical girl with wings situation, and works things out with her best friend.
Zippy does not come around to desiring a dating life, but she does ponder why everyone else does and some of her friends are engaged in relationship both straight and queer. So if your kid is one that does not want any of the kissy stuff in the books they read, this may be a good choice for them. They may find a kindred spirit in Zippy who is in no rush to think about all that, but finds a way to still be supportive of her friends.
In the end, the story of a bat mitzvah is a story of emotional maturity, no matter what ceremony is involved. Zippy learns about community, friendship and how to be herself without cutting herself off from things those around her enjoy. It was fun to spend some time with her and read her story.
Jewish middle grade books often feature a rite of passage called, depending on what culture the character is from, either a bat mitzvah, bar mitzvah, b'nei mitzvah or the newer phrase zerah mitzvah. Suffice it to say that all these terms are for a life cycle event celebrating the transition from immature childhood to emotional and spiritual maturity. It is a ceremony meant to mark the ability of the individual to take responsibility for their own actions while simultaneously having the community embrace and support them. This is done in different ways in different steams of Judaism, and as my own bat mitzvah was fairly low key I always enjoy reading about how other cultures and individual personalities celebrate their event. Including those, like main character Zippy from Laurel Snyder's MG fantasy The Witch of Woodland, who were not intending to celebrate at all.
Zippy, which is short for Zipporah, is an only child from a family that identifies as reform Jewish and mostly attends services for the high holidays. She has to miss school for Jewish holidays, resulting in extra school work, and does not attend Jewish after school like some other young people from her Synagouge so she is surprised when her mother decides that she is to have a bat mitzvah, including leading prayer services in Hebrew. She is specially concerned because she’s not entirely sure she believes in any of the faith aspects of Judaism. The Rabbi is encouraging, even pointing out that her questioning of faith is in itself a very Jewish concept, and encouraging Zippy to be welcomed into their community.
Turning twelve has not exactly been simple for Zippy. She feels left behind by her classmates, who are suddenly interested in dating and lip gloss, while Zippy is more interested in witchcraft and spells. She’s even losing her best friend who wants to hang out with the cool crowd and cannot understand why Zippy won’t at least try to go on this journey with her. The addition of new religious obligations isn’t helping matters. Which is why Zippy, performing a spell in desperation, manages to summon a magical winged girl named Miriam who seems to need Zippy just as much as Zippy needs a friend.
The Zippy/Miriam relationship is complicated but so is the Zippy/Torah relationship. Her bat mitzvah parsha, Mishpatim, is not what she expected. In her own words, it’s “wackadoodle” and even the grown ups in her life seem surprised and uncomfortable when they realize what they have actually asked her to read. Except the Rabbi. He handles the entire thing with aplomb, praising Zippy’s willingness to engage with the text.
Indeed Zippy’s engagement with the text is a lesson in both perspective and how grown ups underestimate teens. When Zippy discovers the sentence ��though shalt not tolerate a sorceress to live,” in her parsha her response is not the abject horror I would expect a self proclaimed witch to feel. It’s delight that the Torah acknowledges witchcraft and a mild annoyance with the people in her life for not sharing this crucial fact with her. Eventually, she gets around to dealing with why witchcraft was prohibited and how to read the Torah in a modern context. She also deals with the mysterious amnesiac magical girl with wings situation, and works things out with her best friend.
Zippy does not come around to desiring a dating life, but she does ponder why everyone else does and some of her friends are engaged in relationship both straight and queer. So if your kid is one that does not want any of the kissy stuff in the books they read, this may be a good choice for them. They may find a kindred spirit in Zippy who is in no rush to think about all that, but finds a way to still be supportive of her friends.
In the end, the story of a bat mitzvah is a story of emotional maturity, no matter what ceremony is involved. Zippy learns about community, friendship and how to be herself without cutting herself off from things those around her enjoy. It was fun to spend some time with her and read her story.
September 23, 2024
There's so much to love about this book. Zippy is going through the typical middle school woes of having a best friend who wants to try new things and hang out with new people, while Zippy would prefer not to. Her feelings of being left out and left behind are super relatable. Especially because she's already an outsider (the other kids call her Zippy The Witch). So when best friend Bea is done playing witch and making up spells, Zippy truly is alone.
Zippy's parents decide she's going to have a bat mitzvah this year, which surprises Zippy since they aren't a super religious family, and they tell her she can have a big party and invite all of her nonexistent friends. The cluelessness of the parents, having no idea how alone Zippy truly is at school, rings true. I really loved that Rabbi Dan doesn't bat an eye when Zippy tells him she's a witch and does nothing to discourage her interest in the occult. He does his best to answer her questions and this is the kind of religious/spiritual leader I can truly get behind. Asking questions and being curious are good things! I was also really interested in reading about some of the Jewish traditions that were new to me.
While alone out on a farm, Zippy reads a phrase of Hebrew out loud that she finds tucked away in a book from the library, and conjures a girl with wings she eventually names Miriam. The rest of the story is about the two girls trying to figure out who Miriam is and where she came from, since she doesn't remember. I had no idea where this was going with Miriam's background. She seemed to need to drain energy from Zippy to stay alive, and later it's revealed that she looks like Zippy but blond, but I really couldn't guess what she was, once the obvious choice of angel seemed wrong.
But ultimately this book is about the power of story. Zippy narrates the whole thing, talking about how she's writing down her story like she's learned to do in English class, and she often addresses the reader directly. I love this theme of storytelling surrounding the religious/spiritual elements because most religions use story to share their teachings. And this book is Zippy's way of sharing her truth.
Zippy's parents decide she's going to have a bat mitzvah this year, which surprises Zippy since they aren't a super religious family, and they tell her she can have a big party and invite all of her nonexistent friends. The cluelessness of the parents, having no idea how alone Zippy truly is at school, rings true. I really loved that Rabbi Dan doesn't bat an eye when Zippy tells him she's a witch and does nothing to discourage her interest in the occult. He does his best to answer her questions and this is the kind of religious/spiritual leader I can truly get behind. Asking questions and being curious are good things! I was also really interested in reading about some of the Jewish traditions that were new to me.
While alone out on a farm, Zippy reads a phrase of Hebrew out loud that she finds tucked away in a book from the library, and conjures a girl with wings she eventually names Miriam. The rest of the story is about the two girls trying to figure out who Miriam is and where she came from, since she doesn't remember. I had no idea where this was going with Miriam's background. She seemed to need to drain energy from Zippy to stay alive, and later it's revealed that she looks like Zippy but blond, but I really couldn't guess what she was, once the obvious choice of angel seemed wrong.
But ultimately this book is about the power of story. Zippy narrates the whole thing, talking about how she's writing down her story like she's learned to do in English class, and she often addresses the reader directly. I love this theme of storytelling surrounding the religious/spiritual elements because most religions use story to share their teachings. And this book is Zippy's way of sharing her truth.
October 13, 2023
I'm really having trouble getting into this. So far the girl 'knows' she's a witch because, basically, sometimes when she recites a chant she coincidentally gets the little thing to happen that she was wishing for. And the theme of growing apart from one's best friend, as puberty arrives, has been done to death.
And I wonder why said friend, and mother (and apparently father but he has much less of presence) are so unsupportive of Zippy's preference for Quiet:.... The author keeps emphasizing it, as if they have no clue that telling our girl "just try it" is, basically, cruel. Otherwise they seem like good people who care and pay attention.... Maybe the author is telling introverted readers "don't blame your loved ones for not understanding your needs... it's always a challenge to deal with the expectation of extroverts...." Maybe Zippy will learn how to stick up for herself over the course of the story.
I do really like that Zippy is writing this herself. It's in true first-person, and she directs her attention to the writing process, and to the reader, explicitly & charmingly.
Anyway. That's through p. 68.
OK done.
What I said above is valid. The book does become quite a bit more interesting, but never fully successful imo. It is indeed about Zippy figuring out what she really wants and how to make that known to her friend and family. The Jewish details are much more interesting than the witchcraft details, imo. The Witches of Worm is referenced as a touchstone.
I do love that when Zippy heard someone screaming, she instinctively ran *to* them, to try to help.
"Maybe we can do wicked things without becoming wicked. I'll have to think about that."
I think that I recommend this for the interested members of the target audience. As a more experienced reader, I feel unsatisfied.
And I wonder why said friend, and mother (and apparently father but he has much less of presence) are so unsupportive of Zippy's preference for Quiet:.... The author keeps emphasizing it, as if they have no clue that telling our girl "just try it" is, basically, cruel. Otherwise they seem like good people who care and pay attention.... Maybe the author is telling introverted readers "don't blame your loved ones for not understanding your needs... it's always a challenge to deal with the expectation of extroverts...." Maybe Zippy will learn how to stick up for herself over the course of the story.
I do really like that Zippy is writing this herself. It's in true first-person, and she directs her attention to the writing process, and to the reader, explicitly & charmingly.
Anyway. That's through p. 68.
OK done.
What I said above is valid. The book does become quite a bit more interesting, but never fully successful imo. It is indeed about Zippy figuring out what she really wants and how to make that known to her friend and family. The Jewish details are much more interesting than the witchcraft details, imo. The Witches of Worm is referenced as a touchstone.
I do love that when Zippy heard someone screaming, she instinctively ran *to* them, to try to help.
"Maybe we can do wicked things without becoming wicked. I'll have to think about that."
I think that I recommend this for the interested members of the target audience. As a more experienced reader, I feel unsatisfied.
June 8, 2024
"The Witch of the Woodland" introduces readers to Zipporah Chava McConnell, affectionately known as Zippy, a young girl navigating the complexities of adolescence with a unique twist—she's a witch. As Zippy deals with the typical challenges of school and preparing for her bat mitzvah, she finds solace and identity in her magical abilities, which have always been a part of her life, though not necessarily shared or understood by others.
Zippy's world takes a turn for the extraordinary when she discovers a mysterious red book in the library that enables her to conjure Miriam, a girl with angelic wings and no memory of her past. This event confirms Zippy's belief in magic and its importance in her life. The plot thickens as Zippy takes it upon herself to help Miriam uncover her origins, believing that solving this mystery might also help her make sense of the changes in her own life, including her shifting relationship with her best friend Bea and the social challenges at school.
Set against the backdrop of Zippy's Jewish culture, the novel not only explores themes of magic and mysticism but also delves into aspects of identity and belonging, as Zippy prepares for her bat mitzvah—a significant coming-of-age ritual in her faith—despite feeling detached from the religious practices of her family.
Rated 3 out of 5, "The Witch of the Woodland" is appreciated for its quick pace and entertaining storyline. However, the novel does not stand out as exceptional within the fantasy genre. It provides a solid, enjoyable read but lacks the depth or innovation to make it particularly memorable or impactful. The elements of diversity and cultural inclusion, through the lens of a Jewish protagonist who is also a practicing witch, add a layer of interest to the narrative and offer a fresh perspective on the intersection of tradition and individuality. This book might appeal to young readers looking for a light fantasy story that combines elements of everyday life with the enchantment of the supernatural.
Zippy's world takes a turn for the extraordinary when she discovers a mysterious red book in the library that enables her to conjure Miriam, a girl with angelic wings and no memory of her past. This event confirms Zippy's belief in magic and its importance in her life. The plot thickens as Zippy takes it upon herself to help Miriam uncover her origins, believing that solving this mystery might also help her make sense of the changes in her own life, including her shifting relationship with her best friend Bea and the social challenges at school.
Set against the backdrop of Zippy's Jewish culture, the novel not only explores themes of magic and mysticism but also delves into aspects of identity and belonging, as Zippy prepares for her bat mitzvah—a significant coming-of-age ritual in her faith—despite feeling detached from the religious practices of her family.
Rated 3 out of 5, "The Witch of the Woodland" is appreciated for its quick pace and entertaining storyline. However, the novel does not stand out as exceptional within the fantasy genre. It provides a solid, enjoyable read but lacks the depth or innovation to make it particularly memorable or impactful. The elements of diversity and cultural inclusion, through the lens of a Jewish protagonist who is also a practicing witch, add a layer of interest to the narrative and offer a fresh perspective on the intersection of tradition and individuality. This book might appeal to young readers looking for a light fantasy story that combines elements of everyday life with the enchantment of the supernatural.
May 31, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up for this middle grade read that 100% surprised me. I actually thought this was purely fantasy. I had not idea it was magical realism. I had no idea I would learn so much about the Jewish religion/customs/traditions/etc and have it written in such a kid-friendly way. I had no idea this was a realistic story of friendship, one where it's not all good in the end, but it is good b/c the friends realize they are changing and their friendship needs to change too.
This is a beautiful middle grade read. Near the end there's a touch of LGBTQ, where .
I loved learning about the Jewish customs. I loved Zippy's interactions with her parents, even if they are completely flighty. I thought the rabbi was a solid character. All in all, it's a fun read.
Some fav quotes:
"It's much easier to be lonely alone than it is to be lonely with people, and that's a fact." pg 106
"Words matter more than anything else. Words are power." pg 123
"Nothing had changed in the actual world beyond the farm, but for some reason, something had shifted in me." pg 129
She's not sure she believes all the Jewish stories... "Because even if I don't believe that the stories are true or right, I've learned something really important this year. I've learned that no stories are entirely true or right. Because no stories are even finished." pg 286
"It was a wonder, what a book cook do, I thought. Even if no story was ever exactly right or finished, a book was a kind of treasure chest. A vessel." pg 289
This is a beautiful middle grade read. Near the end there's a touch of LGBTQ, where .
I loved learning about the Jewish customs. I loved Zippy's interactions with her parents, even if they are completely flighty. I thought the rabbi was a solid character. All in all, it's a fun read.
Some fav quotes:
"It's much easier to be lonely alone than it is to be lonely with people, and that's a fact." pg 106
"Words matter more than anything else. Words are power." pg 123
"Nothing had changed in the actual world beyond the farm, but for some reason, something had shifted in me." pg 129
She's not sure she believes all the Jewish stories... "Because even if I don't believe that the stories are true or right, I've learned something really important this year. I've learned that no stories are entirely true or right. Because no stories are even finished." pg 286
"It was a wonder, what a book cook do, I thought. Even if no story was ever exactly right or finished, a book was a kind of treasure chest. A vessel." pg 289
April 30, 2023
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
The thought I had through much of this book and when I finished it was that it could have been better. It just didn't seem to know what kind of story it wanted to be. Is this a story of witch craft gone wrong? A coming of age story about a young girl who doesn't seem to know where she fits in? A story about changing friendships? It's fine to have a story with elements of all of these, but the problem here is that none of them become fully developed. The best/most interesting parts were those involving Zippy's bat mitzvah and her discussions about her faith. But just as those moments really get started they're interrupted by the parts with "Miriam". I thought that Zippy was a little too flippant about being a witch. Especially since most of her "magic" seemed more like lucky coincidences. Bea was right in telling Zippy that she needed to try more things and make more efforts to be social, and although I didn't agree with her just ditching Zippy with no explanation, I understood her need to broaden her horizons. I had hoped maybe part of Zippy's character development would have involved her finding more people she could be herself with. I doubt she will stay in touch with the other kids from her bat mitzvah classes and Bea is starting to branch out. I fear Zippy will end up a very lonely high schooler. Even the parts with Miriam taking Zippy's memories weren't what they could have been but I think that is largely due to the fact that there just wasn't time to fully develop it. This book either needed more of a central focus or to be longer.
The thought I had through much of this book and when I finished it was that it could have been better. It just didn't seem to know what kind of story it wanted to be. Is this a story of witch craft gone wrong? A coming of age story about a young girl who doesn't seem to know where she fits in? A story about changing friendships? It's fine to have a story with elements of all of these, but the problem here is that none of them become fully developed. The best/most interesting parts were those involving Zippy's bat mitzvah and her discussions about her faith. But just as those moments really get started they're interrupted by the parts with "Miriam". I thought that Zippy was a little too flippant about being a witch. Especially since most of her "magic" seemed more like lucky coincidences. Bea was right in telling Zippy that she needed to try more things and make more efforts to be social, and although I didn't agree with her just ditching Zippy with no explanation, I understood her need to broaden her horizons. I had hoped maybe part of Zippy's character development would have involved her finding more people she could be herself with. I doubt she will stay in touch with the other kids from her bat mitzvah classes and Bea is starting to branch out. I fear Zippy will end up a very lonely high schooler. Even the parts with Miriam taking Zippy's memories weren't what they could have been but I think that is largely due to the fact that there just wasn't time to fully develop it. This book either needed more of a central focus or to be longer.
April 29, 2023
This book will stay with me for a long time. The writing is excellent, and the author is very confident, experienced, and bold. This is my first contact with her work and it made me a fan of whatever she will create and is already published.
It's one of the most complete and educational books with insight into Jewish culture and folklore, also Judaism showing us with subtlety great lessons of tolerance and an amazing mindset: the constant search for knowledge and answers. It doesn't force us to believe and offers us choices. The author also brings witchcraft into the mix in a very credible and complex way.
The main character has her doubts and perhaps even has depression but she is so strong and angry sometimes that makes her a credible character as well that many will relate to. I love her relationship with her parents that are also feeling with her 13 years-old.
Her growth in the novel and her journey become fantastic and I couldn't put it down. This is a very well-written novel constructed with care and creativity. No matter was addressed with superficiality.
The end is very strong and full of truth, I loved it.
Themes of: belonging to a community, where to belong? growth of social ring, identity, isolation, family, religious identity, puberty, parenting, friendship, anger, depression, seventh-grade expectations, witchcraft, magic, being an author, bar mitzvah initiation, physical identity... A book that allows us so much and gives us space for more. Congratulations.
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to give my honest opinion.
It's one of the most complete and educational books with insight into Jewish culture and folklore, also Judaism showing us with subtlety great lessons of tolerance and an amazing mindset: the constant search for knowledge and answers. It doesn't force us to believe and offers us choices. The author also brings witchcraft into the mix in a very credible and complex way.
The main character has her doubts and perhaps even has depression but she is so strong and angry sometimes that makes her a credible character as well that many will relate to. I love her relationship with her parents that are also feeling with her 13 years-old.
Her growth in the novel and her journey become fantastic and I couldn't put it down. This is a very well-written novel constructed with care and creativity. No matter was addressed with superficiality.
The end is very strong and full of truth, I loved it.
Themes of: belonging to a community, where to belong? growth of social ring, identity, isolation, family, religious identity, puberty, parenting, friendship, anger, depression, seventh-grade expectations, witchcraft, magic, being an author, bar mitzvah initiation, physical identity... A book that allows us so much and gives us space for more. Congratulations.
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to give my honest opinion.
February 8, 2024
7th grader Zippy (short for Zipporah) has a lot going on. Her best friend Bea is interested in going to the school dance, but Zippy doesn't want to, and it causes a rift in their lifelong friendship. Zippy's mom has scheduled Zippy's Bat Mitzvah for the spring, but Zippy isn't even sure she believes in all of that stuff. Her family hardly ever goes to synagogue, and she's never been to Hebrew school. And while Zippy has long considered herself to be a witch, she's never felt her power so strongly as the day she apparently conjures up Miriam, a sad, almost transparent girl with beautiful wings and no memories of her past. Is she a ghost? An angel? Some kind of Jewish spirit? Or something more dangerous?
This story starts along the familiar path of middle-grade friendship woes: "My friend has different interests/is making new friends/is entering adolescence faster than me! Oh noes! Will we not be friends any more?" But then it gets more interesting with the Bat Mitzvah plotline and the witchcraft plotline. Snyder does a great job of winding them together well -- because of the friendship breakup, Zippy doesn't have anyone to confide in about Miriam, but because of the Bat Mitzvah prep, she is able to ask the rabbi some questions about Jewish folklore that help her learn more about what Miriam might be. Zippy's voice is engaging, and there's good representation here for kids who belong to a religion but don't practice it all the time. For some reason I didn't totally love it, but I can't put my finger on why, so if it sounds intriguing, you should definitely check it out.
This story starts along the familiar path of middle-grade friendship woes: "My friend has different interests/is making new friends/is entering adolescence faster than me! Oh noes! Will we not be friends any more?" But then it gets more interesting with the Bat Mitzvah plotline and the witchcraft plotline. Snyder does a great job of winding them together well -- because of the friendship breakup, Zippy doesn't have anyone to confide in about Miriam, but because of the Bat Mitzvah prep, she is able to ask the rabbi some questions about Jewish folklore that help her learn more about what Miriam might be. Zippy's voice is engaging, and there's good representation here for kids who belong to a religion but don't practice it all the time. For some reason I didn't totally love it, but I can't put my finger on why, so if it sounds intriguing, you should definitely check it out.
April 26, 2023
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Bea and Zippy have been friends for a long time, but recently they have been growing apart as Bea is more interested in boys, make up, and being popular, and Zippy just wants to write. Zippy's mother wants her to have a bat mitzvah and arranges with the local Rabbi to give her lessons, since the family hasn't attended religious services frequently and Zippy hasn't received religious instruction. Zippy has lots of questions for Rabbi Dan, and isn't thrilled about the process, but goes through with it to make her mother happy. The tensions with Bea increase as Bea complains that Zippy hates everyone. She also dresses in black, and thinks she has magical control over the universe. When real magic occurs and Zippy seems to summon Miriam, whom she thinks at first is a ghost but who turns out to be a dybbuk, Zippy has to reevaluate many things in her life and decide what is important.
I loved that this had Jewish representation, but that Zippy's family only practiced their religion on holidays, since that is the relationship that so many people have with religion. This is a good choice for readers who want more information on dybbuks, which also appear in Lowe's Aviva vs. the Dybbuk (where the family is on the very religious end of the spectrum), Panitch's The Two Wrong Halfs of Ruby Taylor and Markell's The Ghost in Apartment 2R.
Bea and Zippy have been friends for a long time, but recently they have been growing apart as Bea is more interested in boys, make up, and being popular, and Zippy just wants to write. Zippy's mother wants her to have a bat mitzvah and arranges with the local Rabbi to give her lessons, since the family hasn't attended religious services frequently and Zippy hasn't received religious instruction. Zippy has lots of questions for Rabbi Dan, and isn't thrilled about the process, but goes through with it to make her mother happy. The tensions with Bea increase as Bea complains that Zippy hates everyone. She also dresses in black, and thinks she has magical control over the universe. When real magic occurs and Zippy seems to summon Miriam, whom she thinks at first is a ghost but who turns out to be a dybbuk, Zippy has to reevaluate many things in her life and decide what is important.
I loved that this had Jewish representation, but that Zippy's family only practiced their religion on holidays, since that is the relationship that so many people have with religion. This is a good choice for readers who want more information on dybbuks, which also appear in Lowe's Aviva vs. the Dybbuk (where the family is on the very religious end of the spectrum), Panitch's The Two Wrong Halfs of Ruby Taylor and Markell's The Ghost in Apartment 2R.
April 8, 2023
This is not your typical wordy, complex MG story with a precocious and mature main character. The beauty of this book is that it’s perfect for kids who want that connection to a realistic 12-year-old who isn’t in a hurry to grow up just because everyone else around her is. Yes, Zippy has a lot going on and she’s trying to come to grips with what things she’s always taken for granted now mean to her.
With her bat mitzvah soon approaching, Zippy contemplates the importance of religion in her life. It’s refreshing to read how she questions everything and a peek into her family’s more modern adaptation of Judaism. What really made this stand out, though, was bringing magic into the mix (she IS a witch, after all!) and the use of that to help her make meaning out of her religion.
Another unique aspect I enjoyed was the story’s structure. It is actually Zippy writing a book, chapter by chapter, trying to incorporate important literary arts elements taught at school. Zippy addresses the young reader directly with words like “I don’t know how they do it at your school, but at mine….” Her honest and simple voice will speak to even the most reluctant readers.
With her bat mitzvah soon approaching, Zippy contemplates the importance of religion in her life. It’s refreshing to read how she questions everything and a peek into her family’s more modern adaptation of Judaism. What really made this stand out, though, was bringing magic into the mix (she IS a witch, after all!) and the use of that to help her make meaning out of her religion.
Another unique aspect I enjoyed was the story’s structure. It is actually Zippy writing a book, chapter by chapter, trying to incorporate important literary arts elements taught at school. Zippy addresses the young reader directly with words like “I don’t know how they do it at your school, but at mine….” Her honest and simple voice will speak to even the most reluctant readers.
June 6, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It's hard to categorize which I like. Zippy is on the cusp of so many things in her 12 year old life. And she takes them all so seriously. You can't help but love her willingness to grapple. Things I loved: the very real relationships in the book--especially between Zippy and Bea and Zippy and her mother, Zippy and Miriam (Paula); the whole concept of feeling welcome by a group be it a Jewish synagogue, a group of adolescent girls, yourself. I loved Rabbi Dan. So much.
Some of the things I didn't like as much; the title--Woodland seems superfluous. The witch part makes sense, but not Woodland. I would have liked it more if it somehow acknowledged the Bat Mitzvah part more directly since that's such a big part. I wish that it wasn't such a girl book. I felt like the reference to Bea getting her period and Bea's crush on Liv were throw-aways. Not necessary and eliminated the book as an interest to many. Those two tiny parts make me wonder if it really is an elementary book. Not that fifth graders don't get their periods or have crushes. I need books in my collection to appeal to more than one grade.
Some of the things I didn't like as much; the title--Woodland seems superfluous. The witch part makes sense, but not Woodland. I would have liked it more if it somehow acknowledged the Bat Mitzvah part more directly since that's such a big part. I wish that it wasn't such a girl book. I felt like the reference to Bea getting her period and Bea's crush on Liv were throw-aways. Not necessary and eliminated the book as an interest to many. Those two tiny parts make me wonder if it really is an elementary book. Not that fifth graders don't get their periods or have crushes. I need books in my collection to appeal to more than one grade.
September 27, 2024
Coming of age isn’t easy — not even or especially when you are expected to learn (or fake/memorize things in) a different language and chant it in front of family, friends, and strangers. Add best-friend struggles and a magical “oops” that nobody else would believe or recognize, and Zippy is off to a turbulent start of 7th grade and prep for a Bat Mitzvah she hasn’t been studying for like the others in her cohort.
As a once-twelve-year-old, I tried to relate to Zippy from this perspective, but I never had a best friend like she does. Like her, though, I didn’t understand any of my classmates’ desire to be popular or be seen. And I still want to know the world through that lens she calls “witch” and I think of as mystical.
I love how the story follows the days of awe from the birthday of the world — newness and creation at the beginning — to the weighty atonement of Yom Kippur, and the notion of brokenness, repair, and forgiveness. For Zippy it is a moment of growing up, of finding herself in, around, and through Jewish ritual and her own experiences and beliefs.
As a once-twelve-year-old, I tried to relate to Zippy from this perspective, but I never had a best friend like she does. Like her, though, I didn’t understand any of my classmates’ desire to be popular or be seen. And I still want to know the world through that lens she calls “witch” and I think of as mystical.
I love how the story follows the days of awe from the birthday of the world — newness and creation at the beginning — to the weighty atonement of Yom Kippur, and the notion of brokenness, repair, and forgiveness. For Zippy it is a moment of growing up, of finding herself in, around, and through Jewish ritual and her own experiences and beliefs.
February 17, 2023
This book was amazing and I’m so glad I had the chance to read it!
Zippy’s experience with Judaism was incredibly relatable for me and I image would be for a lot of Ashkenazi Jews who grew up in minimally religious households. I had a bit more involvement growing up than Zippy did, but a lot of the “othering” she feels from being Jewish and for being a witch felt very familiar.
I liked that this book discussed Judaism in a way that was relatable for someone who is Jewish but was also well explained for a reader who might not know anything about Judaism.
The amount of middle grade and YA books I’ve read this year that have Jewish main characters makes me so happy, especially knowing there’s more representation out here for kids that wasn’t there when I was a kid.
Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!
Zippy’s experience with Judaism was incredibly relatable for me and I image would be for a lot of Ashkenazi Jews who grew up in minimally religious households. I had a bit more involvement growing up than Zippy did, but a lot of the “othering” she feels from being Jewish and for being a witch felt very familiar.
I liked that this book discussed Judaism in a way that was relatable for someone who is Jewish but was also well explained for a reader who might not know anything about Judaism.
The amount of middle grade and YA books I’ve read this year that have Jewish main characters makes me so happy, especially knowing there’s more representation out here for kids that wasn’t there when I was a kid.
Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!
December 30, 2023
I liked the way this book addressed preadolescent feelings of being a misfit, trying to be an individual and meet others' expectations. It was a nice blend of realistic fiction, and Jewish representation both in terms of liberal American Jewish practice and Jewish fantasy. I didn't always love the meta style of writing, where the character narrating the story, Zippy, talks about her writing, but that's just a personal thing on my part. It worked all in all. Also, I loved that the editors bothered to include some actual Hebrew characters. If only the name of the Torah portion were spelled correctly with the final mem form, rather than a regular mem. It was spelled משפטימ rather than משפטים . A small error, but if you're going to do this wonderful step, do it right! All in all, a good middle-grade novel!
June 2, 2024
Ratings:
Goodreads: 4/5
Storygraph: 4/5
My Rating: 4/5
My Review:
A young Jewish witch quickly discovers not only her powers as a witch but about her Jewish heritage and mythology. The Witch of Woodland is a sweet story of self discovery and learning about friendship.
For a kid’s book, I quite enjoyed this book. Zipporah, also known as Zippy, is having complications with her friendship with her best friend, Bea. Bea and Zippy keep having small arguments that cause distancing between the two. Bea starts to hang out with another group that leaves Zippy alone. At first, it bothers Zippy but with her focus on witchcraft and her Bat Mitzvah, she quickly discovers Miriam.
This was a sweet book. I thought the read was sweet and I am starting to cherish children’s books again. If you’re looking for simple reads, try some children’s books. You might end up surprised!
Happy Reading.
Goodreads: 4/5
Storygraph: 4/5
My Rating: 4/5
My Review:
A young Jewish witch quickly discovers not only her powers as a witch but about her Jewish heritage and mythology. The Witch of Woodland is a sweet story of self discovery and learning about friendship.
For a kid’s book, I quite enjoyed this book. Zipporah, also known as Zippy, is having complications with her friendship with her best friend, Bea. Bea and Zippy keep having small arguments that cause distancing between the two. Bea starts to hang out with another group that leaves Zippy alone. At first, it bothers Zippy but with her focus on witchcraft and her Bat Mitzvah, she quickly discovers Miriam.
This was a sweet book. I thought the read was sweet and I am starting to cherish children’s books again. If you’re looking for simple reads, try some children’s books. You might end up surprised!
Happy Reading.
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