The Witch Boy is a graphic novel written and illustrated by Molly Ostertag. It tells the story of Aster, a young boy growing up in a magical family where only girls are allowed to practice witchcraft, while boys are expected to become shapeshifters. However, Aster has no interest in shapeshifting and finds himself drawn to the world of witchcraft. In this society, boys are considered weak and vulnerable, while girls are seen as powerful and able to defend their communities from evil spirits. Aster's nonconformity to these gender roles causes tension within his family and community, leading to his isolation and feelings of inadequacy. When a mysterious danger threatens Aster's family and his community, he secretly begins studying witchcraft in order to prove himself and protect the ones he loves.
Esther Keller is the librarian at JHS 278, Marine Park in Brooklyn, NY. There she started the library's first graphic novel collection and strongly advocated for using comics in the classroom. She also curates the Graphic Novel collection for the NYC DOE Citywide Digital Library. She started her career at the Brooklyn Public Library and later jumped ship to the school system so she could have summer vacation and a job that would align with a growing family's schedule. On the side, she is a mother of 4 and regularly reviews for SLJ and School Library Connection (formerly LMC). In her past life, she served on the Great Graphic Novels for Teens Committee where she solidified her love and dedication to comics.
Aster, a boy, hasn t been able to shift, and he has an intense interest in witchcraft, but whenever he tries to learn, he s shunned and sent out to play or be with the other boys of his clan. The plot is compelling; issues of gender, identity, and fitting in with your family are explored but in a way that is accessible for younger audiences.
When a mysterious danger threatens Aster's family and his community, he secretly begins studying witchcraft in order to prove himself and protect the ones he loves. Along the way, he encounters new friends, questions societal norms, and challenges the established rules of his magical world. The Witch Boy is a poignant exploration of gender roles, self-discovery, and the power of embracing one's true identity.
Review: The Witch Boy
On the surface, Witch Boy is a fantasy story about a reclusive family who practice magic. But below the surface, it’s a story of gender roles. Whether or not readers will dig that deep is entirely up to them. Whether or not they discuss it, again, is up to them. But young readers will have an exciting adventure story to enjoy. The Witch Boy By Molly Knox Ostertag.
Scholastic Graphix. 2018. ISBN 9781338089516
PBK, $12.99. 218pp.
Grades 4 and up In Aster’s clan, the girls practice witchcraft and the boys shapeshift. Aster, a boy, hasn’t been able to shift, and he has an intense interest in witchcraft, but whenever he tries to learn, he’s shunned and sent out to play or be with the other boys of his clan.
When a shapeshifting ceremony goes awry, and Aster’s cousin goes missing, Aster uses some of the witchcraft he’s picked up on to help find him. While his cousin is missing, Aster goes out walking and befriends Charlie, a young girl from a nonmagical family who has broken her leg. Aster feels comfortable with Charlie and is able to share his deepest thoughts and secrets with her, including his magical gifts. But when the demon monster reaches out to Aster, he will have to show his family that his true desire is witchcraft. Will they come to terms?
While the storytelling feels a bit rushed in the end, overall this is a really sweet and exciting story. The rich artwork and lush colors lay the groundwork for an eerie and magical setting. Readers will feel Aster’s discomfort and his out-of-sorts feeling with his drive to find a place he fits in. The strong part of this story is Charlie and her friendship with Aster. This is a solid choice for reading. Filed under: Graphic Novels, Reviews
SHARE:About Esther Keller
Esther Keller is the librarian at JHS 278, Marine Park in Brooklyn, NY. There she started the library's first graphic novel collection and strongly advocated for using comics in the classroom. She also curates the Graphic Novel collection for the NYC DOE Citywide Digital Library. She started her career at the Brooklyn Public Library and later jumped ship to the school system so she could have summer vacation and a job that would align with a growing family's schedule. On the side, she is a mother of 4 and regularly reviews for SLJ and School Library Connection (formerly LMC). In her past life, she served on the Great Graphic Novels for Teens Committee where she solidified her love and dedication to comics.
On the surface, Witch Boy is a fantasy story about a reclusive family who practice magic. But below the surface, it’s a story of gender roles. Whether or not readers will dig that deep is entirely up to them. Whether or not they discuss it, again, is up to them. But young readers will have an exciting adventure story to enjoy. The Witch Boy By Molly Knox Ostertag.
Scholastic Graphix. 2018. ISBN 9781338089516
PBK, $12.99. 218pp.
Grades 4 and up In Aster’s clan, the girls practice witchcraft and the boys shapeshift. Aster, a boy, hasn’t been able to shift, and he has an intense interest in witchcraft, but whenever he tries to learn, he’s shunned and sent out to play or be with the other boys of his clan.
It discusses the limitations imposed by societal norms and the importance of breaking free from them to pursue one's passions and talents. Through Molly Ostertag's expressive illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, readers are taken on a journey of self-acceptance, self-expression, and the pursuit of one's dreams, regardless of societal expectations. The Witch Boy reminds us that it is the individual's choices and actions that define their worth, not their adherence to predefined gender roles or expectations. In conclusion, The Witch Boy is a powerful and thought-provoking graphic novel that encourages readers to challenge societal norms, embrace their true selves, and follow their own path. It serves as a reminder that gender should not limit one's abilities or dreams and that everyone deserves the freedom to be who they truly are..
Reviews for "The Qwitch Boy: A Hero or a Villain?"
1. Sarah - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "The Witch Boy". The story lacked depth and the characters were flat. I felt like I was reading a watered-down version of better fantasy novels. The protagonist, Aster, had potential to be an interesting character struggling against societal norms, but instead, his journey felt predictable and uninspiring. Overall, it was a forgettable read that failed to deliver on its promising premise.
2. Michael - 1 star - "The Witch Boy" was a complete waste of time. The writing was amateurish, and the plot was incredibly predictable. I found myself rolling my eyes at the repetitive themes of gender roles and stereotypes. The author had an opportunity to tackle important issues but instead opted for a simplistic and unoriginal approach. I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for a thought-provoking or engaging read.
3. Emily - 2 stars - I thought "The Witch Boy" had potential, but it fell flat for me. The pacing was off, making it difficult to stay engaged. The magical elements felt cliché and did not add anything new or exciting to the story. Additionally, the supporting characters lacked depth and were forgettable. It's a shame because the concept of a boy breaking gender norms in a magical world had so much potential. However, the execution left much to be desired. Overall, I was underwhelmed and would not recommend this book to others.
4. David - 1 star - I found "The Witch Boy" to be a tedious and predictable read. The story seemed to drag on without any real purpose or resolution. The world-building was lacking, leaving me feeling disconnected from the setting and its inhabitants. The dialogue also felt forced and unnatural, making it difficult to connect with the characters. Unfortunately, I cannot find any redeeming qualities in this book and would not recommend it to anyone seeking a captivating fantasy read.