Elizabeth Falconer

Homity, Cromerty and Molly-blobs were three little witch sisters who lived in a cottage in a "deep dark wood." Sleeping during the day and attending Granny Mumbles' Spell School in the evening, they got into a bit of trouble when they tested their teacher's vanishing spell and Molly-blobs disappeared. The little witches enjoyed playing tricks on each other, and transforming into various animals, but their favorite lesson was flying...

Part of Collins' "Picture Lions" collection, Three Little Witches is an entertaining little witchy tale, pairing a fairly standard witch story - the witch school, the spells gone wrong, the broomstick flying - with cute, cartoon-style illustrations. Witchy picture-books and early readers are a pet project of mine, and I've read a great many titles in this vein, so it takes something special to impress me. I can't say that Elizabeth Falconer's book particularly stood out to me, but it was enjoyable. Recommended to picture-book readers in the market for something witchy.… (more)

Another book given to me by Irena that she had bought from the League of Friends sale. An enjoyable read, particularly in the description of the French countryside and lifestyle. Idyllic. The Transhumance that Emma went on was fascinating. And Emma's talent at painting murals, nearly lost in her attempt to follow her mother's wishes to become a nun. Apart from the tragedy of Chloe's death, the only thing that spoiled the idyllic lifestyle of all was Flavia, who should have been a nun from the start instead of foisting her religious zeal upon every member of her family, driving them all away or into despair. A happy ending all round thought, thank goodness!… (more)