EMMA AND THE LOVE SPELL

A powerful young witch grows the confidence to manage difficult emotions and wield her magic.

Two years have passed since Korean American Emma and her white adoptive parents moved to their small town, and Emma still has only one friend—one with whom she’s fallen in love. So, when Avangeline (who reads white) shares that she’ll be moving across the country due to her parents’ divorce, Emma is devastated. But she can’t express her pain freely, because her feelings have consequences: When she’s joyful, flowers bloom; when she’s upset, there’s lightning. Emma’s nonmagical parents try to suppress her magic with a “Just Act Normal” strategy that leaves her feeling fragmented, ashamed, and afraid of herself. If only someone other than talking animals could guide her so she could use her magic for something good—like making Avangeline’s parents fall back in love. With her parents leaving for a few days, Emma has a chance to try, but babysitter Mrs. Cornwall spots her practicing and reveals that she, too, is a witch. Should Emma trust her suspicions about Mrs. Cornwall, or has she found a helpful mentor? Clear, descriptive storytelling elucidates complex emotions and relationships with care and the right pacing. Readers will resonate with Emma’s struggle for authenticity as she considers the risks of conflict or rejection if she exposes hidden parts of herself.

A satisfying story of emotional growth that will leave readers hoping for more magical adventures.