In folklore and various mythologies, witches are often portrayed as malevolent beings with supernatural powers. They are commonly associated with dark magic, spells, curses, and the ability to shape-shift into animals or fly on broomsticks. Witches are known for their cackling laughter, pointy hats, and black clothing. They are often depicted as hunchbacked old women with warts and long, crooked noses. On the other hand, a heaper is a much lesser-known creature that is often confused with a witch due to some similarities in their appearance and behavior. The term "heaper" is derived from the word "heap," as these creatures are said to dwell in heaps of leaves, sticks, or other natural materials.
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Published by: Candlewick Press
Release Date: March, 2022
Pages: 304
ISBN13: 9781536219562
Nancy Werlin s first story for middle-grade readers tackles and transcends traditional fantasy tropes can a young woman gifted with magic learn to manage her powers and claim her strength without violence. Sylvie and her mother and grandmother are beloved, trusted healers in their medieval French village, though some whisper that fifteen-year-old Sylvie and her grand-mere deal in more than herbs and medicines.
The term "heaper" is derived from the word "heap," as these creatures are said to dwell in heaps of leaves, sticks, or other natural materials. They have a hunchbacked posture like witches and are usually seen wearing tattered, earth-toned clothing. Unlike witches, heapers are not associated with dark magic or evil intentions.
Healer and Witch by Nancy Werlin
After eleven young-adult novels, best-selling and award-winning author Nancy Werlin casts a brilliant new spell in a middle-grade historical fantasy for fans of classic fare.
Nancy Werlin’s first story for middle-grade readers tackles and transcends traditional fantasy tropes: can a young woman gifted with magic learn to manage her powers—and claim her strength—without violence? Sylvie and her mother and grandmother are beloved, trusted healers in their medieval French village, though some whisper that fifteen-year-old Sylvie and her grand-mere deal in more than herbs and medicines. Perhaps they’re a bit . . . witchy? After her grandmother dies, and an attempt to use magic to heal her mother’s grief brooks tragic consequences, Sylvie leaves her village in search of a teacher. The journey subjects her to strange alliances, powerful temptations, danger, and deceit. In the end, there may be only one wise woman Sylvie can trust in a world that would define her limits: herself. Beautifully crafted, this quietly powerful work for younger readers assures a whole new audience for an established author.
Review
1530s France isn’t the safest time to gain magic powers and lose the grandmother who intended to teach you. Sylvie, named after her grandmother, tries to erase her mother’s grief and discovers why “Find & Delete” is such a dangerous function. She leaves her tiny village in search of a new teacher.
I love how Healer and Witch uses the historical setting to establish obsticles in Sylvie’s quest. She considers herself a good Catholic and believes her magic is a gift from God, but the church and average layperson consider it witchcraft and think it comes from the Devil. Locating someone else with magic to train her is difficult because they also need to hide for their own safety.
Sylvie is accompanied on her journey by Martin, a nine-year-old boy from her village. He’s likeable and helpful but only seems to exist to push the story along and reveal information when Sylvie needs it. If it turned out he was special somehow I could forgive more of the contrivances but as is I find him frustrating.
Convenient child aside, Healer and Witch is a lovely story about finding ones place in the world while retaining freedom.
About Rachel Banzhaf
I am a cat mom and person mom, ages 2 (x3 - kitten multipack), 10, and 13 (the human). I work in accounting and listen to audiobooks while doing the numbers thing. I enjoy low-stress cozy fantasy novels and LitRPG primarily, often wandering into middle grade territory. In constant search of the next great fantasy farming, magical girl, and pretentious Regency England fantasy story.
A delightful page-turner that will entice readers of historical fiction and fantasy alike. It’s a refreshing stand-alone novel with a resilient protagonist who realizes the greatest magic of all is being true to oneself. . . . Thoroughly enjoyable and engaging, filled with magic, mystery, strength, and love.
—Kirkus Reviews
They are believed to be guardians of nature and have an affinity for the forest and its inhabitants. It is said that heapers possess the ability to communicate with animals and have a deep understanding of plant life. They are known for their healing abilities and are often sought out by those in need of herbal remedies. While witches are often feared and seen as a threat, heapers are seen as benevolent and wise creatures. They are said to offer guidance and protection to those who show them respect and kindness. Stories of encounters with heapers often involve acts of compassion and a deep connection with nature. In conclusion, although witches and heapers share some similarities in their appearance, they represent different beings in folklore and mythology. While witches are associated with dark magic and malicious intent, heapers are seen as guardians of nature with healing abilities. These two mythical creatures serve as contrasting examples of how folklore often portrays supernatural beings..
Reviews for "The Wicked Witch Stereotype: Debunking Myths and Misconceptions"
1. Emma - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Heaper and Witch". The storyline was confusing and hard to follow. The characters were one-dimensional and lacked depth. There was no emotional connection with any of them. The writing style was also disjointed and hard to read. Overall, I found this book to be unengaging and uninteresting.
2. Alex - 1 star - I couldn't even finish "Heaper and Witch". The plot was predictable and filled with clichés. The dialogue felt forced and unnatural. The pacing was incredibly slow, and I lost interest within the first few chapters. The world-building was also inconsistent and confusing. I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for an engaging and well-written story.
3. Lisa - 2 stars - "Heaper and Witch" had potential, but it fell flat for me. The characters were underdeveloped, and I couldn't connect with any of them. The plot lacked depth and was filled with plot holes. The writing style was also repetitive and lacked creativity. I kept waiting for something exciting to happen, but it never did. Overall, this book was a disappointment for me.
4. Michael - 2 stars - I struggled to get through "Heaper and Witch". The pacing was incredibly slow, and the story failed to capture my attention. The descriptions were overly detailed and unnecessary, making the read tedious. The dialogue felt awkward and forced, and the plot lacked originality. I was left feeling underwhelmed and unsatisfied with this book.
5. Samantha - 1 star - "Heaper and Witch" was a waste of my time. The characters were flat and uninteresting, and the world-building was lacking. The pacing was off, with long stretches of nothing happening followed by rushed and confusing scenes. The writing style was also dull and uninspiring. I struggled to finish this book and would not recommend it to anyone.