Abbott, Zoey. This Year, a Witch! Zoey Abbott, Illus. Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy, 07/2025. [40]pp. Picture Book. Trade $19.99. 978-1-6659-5602-4. GRADES Preschool–2. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
Sometimes the way we see ourselves doesn’t match what the mirror reflects. This seems to be the case for the aspiring witch in Abbott’s latest picture book. The story follows a girl (who presents as Asian) as she prepares to shed her “adorable” Halloween costumes of years past, and embrace the witch she is by “growing out witchy locks… [and] whipping up spells” with her cat. The true allure lies in Abbott’s boldly sketched illustrations, which contrast dark, thick lines with bright colors to depict various Halloween endeavors among a diverse cast of characters. The images, created using multimedia and Risograph illustrations, often enhance the straightforward narrative, providing opportunities to ask what is happening. Abbott’s book makes a fun Halloween read, best enjoyed with a little in your lap.
Alexandra Pantazes—Mountain View Public Library