This modern fantasy, early chapter book is about an eight year old girl who is secretly a witch. She has to learn to live like a normal kid and hide her powers, but unfortunately she is bullied at school by Melanie. Heidi decides to get even with Melanie when Melanie is cast as Dorthy in the school play and Heidi is cast as a scary tree. Heidi prepares a spell so Melanie forgets her lines in the play. ( )

Heidi Hecklebeck is a young witch and she is being bullied by Melanie at school. Heidi wants to cast a spell to get even. The book captures the fun spirit, but not the storyline, of the Practical Magic film (before it gets serious) with a wise aunt, silly spell ingredients, and a fearless heroine. The story is clearly geared towards teaching a lesson about responsibility and even though bullying is talked about in the book, it is never actually addressed. Illustrations are done in black and white watercolor. This book is aimed at children more towards third grade than Kindergarten. Vocabulary is somewhat complex and there is a lot of it. The pictures will help young readers with words and ideas that they might be struggling with though this is not strictly a picture book. Children, especially girls, who like magic or who are having trouble in school with bullies will probably like this book. This book is part of a series, but it can easily standalone. Recommended. ( )