colombian folk tales

Magical guidance is a central theme in the works of Alice Hoffman, a renowned American author known for her picturesque storytelling and enchanting narratives. Through her novels, Hoffman explores the idea of magical guidance as a transformative force that guides individuals on their life's journey. Her books are often set in a world infused with magical realism, where ordinary events are interconnected with extraordinary occurrences. Hoffman's novels present characters who are touched by a magical element that shapes their lives and leads them on a path of self-discovery. This magical guidance can take various forms, such as mystical objects, supernatural beings, or innate powers possessed by the characters themselves. The protagonists in her stories are often ordinary individuals who find themselves grappling with personal challenges, and it is through the intervention of magic that they are able to navigate these obstacles and find their true selves.

From the creator of the acclaimed graphic novel The Witch Boy comes a new adventure set in the world of magic and shapeshifting -- and ordinary kids just trying to make friends.

Molly Knox Ostertag is the New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of the acclaimed Witch Boy trilogy The Witch Boy , The Hidden Witch , and The Midwinter Witch , as well as a writer for animation. Praise for The Witch Boy Ostertag s story is straightforward, acting as a parable for gender conformity that s pitched just right to middle-grade audiences.

The protagonists in her stories are often ordinary individuals who find themselves grappling with personal challenges, and it is through the intervention of magic that they are able to navigate these obstacles and find their true selves. One of Hoffman's most well-known works, "Practical Magic," explores the lives of the Owens sisters, Gillian and Sally, who come from a long line of witches. The sisters' lives are intertwined with a spell cast by their ancestor, Maria Owens, which ensures that the women in their family will never find true love.

The Hidden Witch (Witch Boy #2)

Aster and his family are adjusting to his unconventional talent for witchery; unlike the other boys in his family, he isn't a shapeshifter. He's taking classes with his grandmother and helping to keep an eye on his great-uncle whose corrupted magic wreaked havoc on the family. Meanwhile, Aster's friend from the non-magical part of town, Charlie, is having problems of her own -- a curse has tried to attach itself to her. She runs to Aster and escapes it, but now the friends must find the source of the curse before more people -- normal and magical alike -- get hurt.

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School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-In this adventurous sequel to The Witch Boy, Aster is finally allowed to learn witchery alongside the girls in his family, while his best friend Charlie is excited by the prospect of a new friendship at (nonmagic) school with shy, guarded Ariel. But mysterious happenings pick up quickly when Charlie is visited by a malevolent spirit and when magic meddles in her first basketball game. Meanwhile, in return for extra lessons, Aster helps his grandmother heal the monster who endangered his life and who, deep down, is also his great-uncle Mikasi. Ostertag skillfully develops the setting and action while tackling topics such as friendship, jealousy, bullying, and identity. Themes of embracing differences and the long-term effects of intolerance carry over from the previous installment, as readers are introduced to a diverse, expanding cast. The bold art is inviting; clear-cut, brightly colored panels with warm autumnal tones keep scenes moving and shift into muted shades to enhance the creep factor. Depictions of Mikasi's dragon-esque form and foreboding shadow shapes are the perfect level of spooky for the target audience. VERDICT An exciting continuation of Aster's supernatural journey, whose coming-of-age messages will resonate with middle graders.--Ashleigh Williams, School Library Journal

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Review quotes

Ostertag's story is straightforward, acting as a parable for gender conformity that's pitched just right to middle-grade audiences. Her panels are clear, colorful, and friendly, and her worldbuilding flawless. With charming artwork, interesting supporting characters, natural-feeling diversity, and peeks of a richly developed world, this book leaves readers wishing for more. — Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Thrilling. Ostertag is one of comics' brightest new voices. — Hope Larson, author of Compass South
Ostertag is creating worlds and witches for the modern young reader. — Lucy Knisley, author of Something New and Relish
Dazzling. a contemporary fantasy for anyone who's struggled with defining themselves. — Marika McCoola, author of Baba Yaga's Assistant

Molly Knox Ostertag is the New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of the acclaimed Witch Boy trilogy: The Witch Boy, The Hidden Witch, and The Midwinter Witch, as well as a writer for animation. A graduate of the School of Visual Arts, Molly was featured in the Forbes 30 Under 30: Media list in 2020. She's married to another writer and artist, and they live in Los Angeles with two cats and a very cuddly dog. You can visit her online at mollyostertag.com.

Molly Knox Ostertag is the New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of the acclaimed Witch Boy trilogy: The Witch Boy, The Hidden Witch, and The Midwinter Witch, as well as a writer for animation. A graduate of the School of Visual Arts, Molly was featured in the Forbes 30 Under 30: Media list in 2020. She's married to another writer and artist, and they live in Los Angeles with two cats and a very cuddly dog. You can visit her online at mollyostertag.com.

However, it is through their magical abilities and the support of each other that Gillian and Sally are able to overcome this curse and find happiness. In "The Rules of Magic," a prequel to "Practical Magic," Hoffman delves deeper into the magical world of the Owens family. The novel follows the lives of three siblings, Franny, Jet, and Vincent, as they grapple with their own unique magical abilities and face the challenges that come with their heritage. Their magical guidance comes in the form of their Aunt Isabelle, a wise and eccentric woman who helps them navigate their supernatural powers and teaches them the importance of embracing their true selves. Hoffman's novels not only showcase the transformative power of magical guidance but also explore themes of love, loss, and resilience. Through her vivid descriptions and lyrical writing style, she transports readers into a world where magic is both an external force and an internal compass. Her stories remind us that, in the face of adversity, it is often through embracing the inexplicable and the mystical that we can find our true purpose and achieve personal growth. In conclusion, Alice Hoffman's exploration of magical guidance through her novels invites readers to suspend disbelief and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Her enchanting narratives and vibrant characters showcase the transformative power of magic, guiding individuals on a path of resilience and personal growth. Through her evocative storytelling, Hoffman reminds us of the importance of embracing the unknown and tapping into our own inner magic..

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colombian folk tales