Scrutinize Earwig and the Witch is a renowned novel that was written by Diana Wynne Jones. It tells the story of Earwig, an orphaned girl who is adopted by a witch named Bella Yaga. The novel's main idea revolves around the theme of power and cunning. Earwig, the protagonist, is a resourceful and clever girl. She uses her wit and intelligence to navigate the strange and often dangerous world of witches. Despite her young age, Earwig is not intimidated by Bella Yaga's magical abilities.
What you need to know: A Black girl with prowess in the kitchen on top of newly discovered magic fights to save her magical school from closing. A super fun read packed with delicious food and family.
Contact us here if you d like to inquire about Chris joining your conversation to answer questions about the book or explore other topics around parenting and teaching middle schoolers. What you need to know This series tells the origin story of The School for Good and Evil and the two brothers tasked with maintaining a balance between good and evil magic.
Despite her young age, Earwig is not intimidated by Bella Yaga's magical abilities. Instead, she uses her craftiness to manipulate the witch and get what she wants. Bella Yaga, on the other hand, initially sees Earwig as a useful assistant.
Middle School Magic: Box
If you’re looking for a middle school play that has it all, look no further than Box by Lindsay Price. Flexible casting, small scene and monologue opportunities, and dealing with issues that middle-schoolers can relate to, this vignette play is not to be missed.
Sometimes we choose the way the world sees us. Black box – indestructible. Jewelry box – plain on the outside, shiny on the inside. Sometimes our box is defined by others – our parents, our friends, our enemies. A box built by others can feel small, confined, impossible.
How do we handle the boxes imposed upon us because of our gender? Our race? From peer pressure? From parent pressure? Do we have to live with our box for the rest of our lives? Can we change?
Director Sally Vopnfjord was thrilled to share the success of the amazing student performers at Kipling Collegiate Institute in Toronto, Ontario, who were able to create and share their own middle-school magic:
Our school recently performed BOX as part of the National Theatre School Drama Festival (formerly Sears Drama Fest). Despite competing in the festival for the first time and featuring first-time actors – we won! We were selected as one of the top 3 shows in our district. BOX will now be performed in the Toronto Regionals at Hart House – fingers crossed that we can take this show all the way to the Provincial Finals.
Congratulations on your success, Kipling Collegiate!
Get a copy of the play Box now!
If you would like to be considered for an upcoming production feature, click here to submit your Theatrefolk play story.
However, she soon realizes that she has met her match. Earwig challenges Bella Yaga's authority and refuses to be controlled by her. The power struggle between the two characters forms the backbone of the story. The novel also explores the contrast between good and evil. While Bella Yaga is portrayed as a wicked witch, Earwig is not entirely virtuous either. She is opportunistic and self-serving, using her intelligence to further her own needs. This gray area between good and evil adds depth to the characters and creates an interesting dynamic. The writing style of Diana Wynne Jones is engaging and immersive. She creates a vivid and fantastical world that captures the reader's imagination. The story is filled with magic, mystery, and humor. The author's skillful storytelling keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end. Scrutinize Earwig and the Witch is a captivating novel that explores themes of power, cunning, and the contrast between good and evil. Diana Wynne Jones weaves a compelling story that is sure to enchant readers of all ages..
Reviews for "A Playful Adventure: The Humorous Elements of "Earwig and the Witch"
1. Jessica - 2/5
I was really disappointed with "Scrutinize Earwig and the Witch". As a longtime fan of Studio Ghibli, I had high expectations for this film, but it fell flat for me. The animation style was different from what I'm used to from Ghibli films, and it just didn't have the same magic and charm as classics like "Spirited Away" or "My Neighbor Totoro". The story also felt underdeveloped and rushed, and the characters were not as endearing as I had hoped. Overall, it felt like a missed opportunity by Studio Ghibli.
2. Michael - 1/5
I simply don't understand why people are praising "Scrutinize Earwig and the Witch". The animation was lackluster, the plot was confusing and hard to follow, and the characters were forgettable. It felt like a cheap imitation of a typical Studio Ghibli film. I was expecting something much better from such a renowned studio. This film was a major disappointment and I would not recommend it to anyone.
3. Sarah - 2/5
I have to admit, "Scrutinize Earwig and the Witch" did not live up to my expectations. The story felt disjointed and the pacing was off. The main character, Earwig, was unlikeable and it was difficult to root for her. The voice acting was also subpar, lacking the emotion and depth that I've come to expect from Ghibli films. Overall, it just didn't capture my attention or leave a lasting impression like other films from the studio have done.