The Witch's Boy

Author: Kelly Barnhill

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy

What this book is about: The Witch's Boy is about a young boy who has always been told he's the "wrong" boy. His twin died when they were both young, in a river that almost drowned him. Ned's mother, Sister Witch, is the hero of the village. She controls the magic. But now the magic wants control. When she helps someone, it sort of drains her strength and energy. The queen comes to the village one day, in need of help. Sister Witch heals her, but she is in bed for more than 3 days! She is invited later to a ceremony, hosted by the queen herself, recognizing her for her brave and amazing efforts. She has one request of Ned: keep the magic safe. A herd of bandits comes by, hoping to get the magic. They have kidnapped Ned's father. Ned is afraid. To heed his mother's request, and keep the magic safe, he will have to bind it to himself. It's painful. There will be consequences....

Aine is a practical girl. After her mother's death, she is left with her father. He is overcome with grief and sorrow, so he suggests they move into the woods. They do. Even there, she is haunted by her mother's last words: "The wrong boy will save your life. And you will save his. And the wolf-". What boy? What wolf? What was the end of her sentence? Her father has changed. He has an eye-shaped necklace and is now the king of the bandits. He no longer cares about her much. The necklace comes with a curse. When Aine realizes that she can stand him no longer, she leaves, meeting Ned along the way. And they aren't alone......the stones are watching.

Your opinion: I really liked the book, but it was kind of confusing at the beginning. It was good, but not on my top 5 favorite Bookworm books list. (I am Malala, Rain Reign, and Hook's Revenge are the only ones so far.) 

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Who would like this book: I think people who like magic, fantasy, bandits, queens and kings, and mystery-like chapters would enjoy this.

Reviewed by: ST