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The Book of Spells

A Private Prequel
by Kate Brian
334p. 978-1-44241-236-1.
COPY ISBN
Gr 3-6 These hefty, oversize editions of childhood classics include congenial paintings executed by Foreman in previous decades. The artwork is pleasant, but not really dominant here. Though inflated in size, the books employ a traditional layout of illustrated novels with thoughtful, sparing placement of pictures and uninterrupted flow of the original texts. Gentle, often humorous interpretations of characters and events appear in one full-page scene in most chapters; occasional small views and set pieces open and conclude chapters. With paintings that beautifully complement the enduring stories, these might be welcome new editions. Not visually lavish by today's standards, but still showy, they will serve as gift items or for reading aloud in some situations. Libraries with a particular interest in Foreman's work will definitely want them.-"Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston" Copyright 2010 Media Source Inc.
Set in 1915 at the Billings School for Girls, this prequel to the Private series follows Eliza as she and her friends form a coven. At first they try relatively harmless spells, but when a girl dies, Eliza discovers that supernatural actions can have unintended consequences. The setting is evocative and the sense that some characters have secrets adds to the tension.

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