Recent Reads: When the Witch Wrote Back by Nathan Christopher

Source: From Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

When the Witch Wrote Back by Nathan Christopher, Illustrated by
Pablo Pino
Publisher: Sourcebooks Wonderland
Publication Date:  July 28, 2026

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Trick or Treat! Experience the magic of Halloween as never before with this picture book packed with spooky fun and a meaningful lesson, perfect for kids ages 4-10!

A new neighbor has moved in next door, and Jake is pretty sure that only one kind of neighbor would be unpacking a cauldron, a broomstick, and a black cat. Then Jake gets an idea…who better to help him plan, prepare, and clean for his big upcoming Halloween party?! When he writes letters to The Witch requesting magic to save him from doing his chores, will Jake get all that he hopes for? Or will the Witch use her powers to teach him a valuable lesson in this delightfully charming story about the Halloween…when the Witch wrote back!

With clever and fun-to-read rhymes as well as engaging art, hilarious fall fun, and an important message of putting in the hard work, When the Witch Wrote Back! is the perfect Halloween gift or boo basket stuffer for kids! Complete with a bonus spread of tips from Jake on how to have a happy Halloween, this story is the perfect way to celebrate the spooky season! 

Dear Witch,

You think you can fool me, but I've seen the proof

• Your chimney pours potions all over your roof, 
• Your mailbox is barking and chasing a mouse, 
• And some sorta goblins are painting your house! 

You might as well help me! Let's whip up a spell

To clean up my clothing, take care of that smell,

Then hang decorations. How long will that take?

My parents might cancel the party!

From Jake

Review: 

I absolutely loved this one! 

From the first pages, I was obsessed with the illustrations. The artwork is so detailed, and there are so many little things to find (I could honestly stare at each page forever). The colors are bright and things seem to be glowing, and the whole book has such a fun, magical Halloween vibe.

Jake needs help cleaning his room before his Halloween party, and when a new neighbor moves in next door with a cauldron, broomstick, and black cat, Jake is pretty sure she's a witch. Naturally, he decides she's exactly who he needs to help him get everything done!

I loved that Jake wasn't scared of the Witch at all. Instead, he asks for help - "You're a witch? Great! Can you help me?" The Witch tries to help, but Jake keeps taking shortcuts and not quite following her instructions, and somehow every attempt leaves him with an even bigger mess.

It was so funny and playful, and I really enjoyed watching everything go completely wrong. The rhymes were fun to read, too. I also really loved the message about putting in the work instead of always looking for the easiest way out. It was a great lesson for kids without feeling overly nagging about it.

This was such a cute and fun Halloween read! I loved the artwork, the humor, the Halloween magic, and Jake's whole attitude toward the Witch. Definitely one I'd recommend for a spooky-season read!