Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween!!

(this is my not-so-subtle way of saying I reckon the libraries I work in are ***HAUNTED***)

The Witching Hour is Nigh!

Some of you may be getting dressed up around about now, some of you might be stuffing your face pre-emptively with sweets and some of you are getting cosy and planning to watch Hocus Pocus (I know I am 😉). Wherever you are, I think we can all agree that we need some spooctacular book recommendations! And what better topic than talking about *witches*? Yup- I’m giving you a list of some of my favourite witchy books! (NB I had to resist the urge to not just tell you to reread Harry Potter, cos obviously that’s an option… but I guess I kinda just did that… ah well 😉) Without further ado, pick up your broomsticks and let’s get this kicked off!

Wicked Deep– one of my favourite spooky reads last year, this spellbinding, atmospheric read with a historical edge definitely cast its spell over me!

Winter of the Witch– such a captivating series set in medieval Rus! Though I could’ve picked any of the books in this series, but this is where Vasya has fully come into her powers, journeys through Midnight and shines in her greatest glory. This is how to tell a witchy tale!

The Witch’s Daughter– this fantastical take on historical fiction was fun and brimming with entertainment!

The Crucible– if you’re on the hunt for something about the Salem witch trials, then look no further! Well, I say that, but this isn’t really about that at all 😉 It’s very intense and will transport you in time though!

Circe– there’s something utterly bewitching about this book- it’s the perfect retelling of Odysseus, the characters shine and the writing is exquisite. Most importantly for this list, it has one of the most unique takes on witches I have ever seen.

Northern Lights– speaking of unique takes, everything about Lyra’s Oxford (and extended world) is different and interesting. So, it’s no surprise that his take on witches is *brilliant*.

Doomspell– I always vividly remember this book as well for its *stand out* witches. Although, be prepared for things to get a little creepier… And on that note…

The Witches– yes, this list wouldn’t be complete without Dahl’s Witches. Terrifying to adults and children alike, these are the kinds of witches to keep you up at night!

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe– another absolute *classic* book starring a witch! In this case, the White Witch is the epitome of evil, enticing you in with Turkish Delight… only to try and turn you to stone if she gets the chance!

Good Omens– of course, however, if you (like me) prefer your spooky reads not-so-spooky, then look no further. This quirky and hilarious book has everything spooky from witches to the devil to the four horseman of the apocalypse… and yet miraculously manages to be a good time!

Equal Rites– sticking with the fun vibes, this was one of the first Discworld books I ever read and it completely charmed me! The humour and the characters were top notch- and this is definitely a great starting point for people looking for some girl power! And just so you know, the series gets better and better! (Maskerade is probably my favourite!) Pratchett always draws brilliantly on classics as well, which brings me to…

Macbeth– hubble bubble toil and trouble… this is the quintessential play with witches! Whether you’ve seen it/read it/heard about it vaguely- you can’t go wrong with this ambitious drama!

The Worst Witch– and finally, I thought the best way to end out this list would be to talk about a fun family friendly witch… who happens to not be very good at it. Though she may not fail in the Shakespearean sense, it’s rather comforting (and hella entertaining) to read about a heroine who struggles to *shine* and whose finest quality is her big heart.

And that’s all I’ve got for tonight! Have you read any of these? Do you have any other witchy reads to add? Let me know in the comments! And Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween!