Format: Chapter book

Wands Away is a charming early chapter book series. Fans of Isadora Moon will feel right at home with this format, offering a perfectly pitched entry point for newly independent readers.

This story is one of gentle magic. The magical world here is grounded in the everyday, proving that even witches have to deal with back-to-school nerves, lost wellies and soggy school runs! Ramona and her friends are relatable characters who model positive ways to handle worries and puzzles as they learn that patience and practice are the keys to mastering any skill – magic or otherwise. Whether the group is solving scavenger hunt riddles or giving mossy trolls a clean up, the focus remains positively on finding solutions and the strength of working together as a friendship group or community.

We enjoyed the low-peril, high-optimism tone of this short chapter book, and it will prove a real asset to KS1 classrooms, primary libraries or home bookshelves catering for newly independent readers aged 5-8. Emma Farrarons’ joyful purple-and-grey illustrations keep the charm level high. The artwork is full of character, capturing stylish details like oversized glasses and jubilant facial expressions as well as the sparkling energy of the target age group.

High in fun, the plot is packed with celebratory togetherness, like fireworks, water fights and shared hot chocolate moments. With the added fun of spell badges to keep in each book, this is a positive series with high collectability potential.