Reviews

Le garçon sorcière by Molly Knox Ostertag

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onlyapples's review against another edition

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emotional inspiring fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

I teared up at the end. This middle grade graphic novel is well-paced, simple, and inspiring.

readingrainheaux's review against another edition

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adventurous lighthearted mysterious fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

john_the_captain's review against another edition

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4.0

This is a quick read about boy (Aster) who is different. In his World of witchcraft and magic women are witches and the men are shpeshifters ... the protectors of the clan.

Of course Aster is different. He wants to cast spells and can't shapeshift like all the other boys. This is a sweet story about a boy being different and a new friend he makes Charlie (who is pissed that in her school there are no co-ed sports) has two dads of which there is no big thing made out of which I thought was really nice (and "normalizing" even though I hate using that word).

A fun quick read for ages 9+. Available in libraries in Ireland.

faerywillow's review against another edition

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adventurous mysterious fast-paced

4.75

rydrangea's review against another edition

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adventurous hopeful lighthearted reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

kerameia's review against another edition

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5.0

Though the main character is 13, I think that his story and experiences are accessible to a variety of ages. The very personal, intimate look we have into Aster's experience as a boy who's supposed to shape-shift, but feels more inclined/is gifted to witchery, makes this story very powerful and evocative. I couldn't help but be drawn into the narrative and feel Aster's loneliness, small comforts in the form of practicing witchery and meeting Charlie, and his rise in self-confidence.

The story is a good blend of experience, reflection, and action; there is little violence or blood, because the focus is more on Aster's decision-making and strategizing, rather than a gory battle, to solve the issues.

The artwork is colorful, open and welcoming, detailed yet not overwhelming. I think the author/illustrator does a wonderful job of visually depicting events that cannot otherwise be explained, such as when Aster feels confused about something or when he loses his voice.

Definitely recommend for middle grade + students!