My Books
A Pinch of Magic
Middle Grade
WATERSTONES CHILDREN’S BOOK OF THE MONTH 2019 (UK)
BARNES & NOBLE YOUNG READERS PICK OF THE MONTH 2021 (US)
WINNER: DUTCH BRONZE PEN AWARD 2022
Shortlisted for THE BRITISH BOOK AWARDS 2020
Shortlisted for THE SEFTON SUPER READS 2020
On the isle of Crowstone, set upon eerie marshes with a prison as its closest neighbour, the Widdershins sisters: Betty, Fliss and Charlie, set out to break a deadly curse which has haunted their family for generations.
But the curse isn’t the only unusual thing about the Widdershins. Each of them possesses a magical object that’s been passed down the family. A scruffy carpet bag, a set of wooden nesting dolls and a gilt-framed mirror . . . none of them is what they seem.
Will they be enough to break the curse? Or will the sisters have better luck with the mysterious prisoner who claims he can help them – for a price?
RESOURCES:
Widdershins gingerbread recipe
US edition: cover by Grace Kum
Reviews of A Pinch of Magic
‘A good choice for middle grade fairy-tale fans craving something with an occasionally dark twist, and some sisterly double crossing.’
School Library Journal
‘In a coming-of-age journey that is emotional, dramatic, and magical, A Pinch of Magic packs more than a pinch of heart, exploring the love of three sisters, as well as curses, imprisonment and adventure.’
Booklist
‘A gripping, atmospheric tale of sorcery, secrets and sisterhood, infused with the titular pinch of magic.’
Kirkus
‘This is wonderful, edge-of-your-seat excitement . . . A pinch of magic indeed.’
Daily Mail
‘What a glorious book this is! I was utterly captivated by the Widdershins sisters.’
Lisa Thompson (author of THE GOLDFISH BOY)
‘A mesmerising magical quest with freedom and sisterly love at its heart.’
The Bookseller
‘A delight of a story with family at its heart, magic covering its pages and important messages laced through its chapters.’
The Bookbag
‘Sumptuously magical . . . prepare to fall under the spell of the story everyone will be wanting to read in 2019.’
The Reader Teacher
‘A total masterclass in middle-grade fantasy adventure. BRILLIANT.’
Emma Carroll (author of LETTERS FROM THE LIGHTHOUSE)
‘Wonderful.’
Cerrie Burnell (author of THE GIRL WITH SHARK’S TEETH)
Gallery of all editions
