Julie Hodgson

Reviewed by Carla Trueheart for Readers' Favorite

Lilly Peppertree: Lilly’s Spell by author Julie Hodgson is an enchanting book for children that has easily become one of my new favorite books. Lilly Peppertree loses her beloved mother to what she is told is an accident, but after living with her grandfather for some time, Lilly begins to have dreams about her mom. These dreams prompt her to follow a verbal message left behind, find a crow’s feather, and locate a spellbook. Young Lilly also learns about the Dying Tree, where accused witches are hanged, and witnesses a witch trial in town where an obviously innocent woman is sentenced to death. Lilly then begins her own journey, making potions and fulfilling a destiny of non-evil witchcraft. But there is a girl in town who wants nothing more than to accuse innocent people of witchcraft, and Lilly meets some unexpected complications that threaten to tear apart what is left of her family.

Author Julie Hodgson has created a world that begs readers to curl up and settle in for a bewitching tale. The writing in Lilly Peppertree: Lilly’s Spell is spellbinding and lyrical, the characters are authentic, and the plot is imaginative and fun. Lilly’s relationship with not only her grandfather but also everyone around her is endearing, and the reader can’t help but fall in love with Lilly’s gold heart and her quests and difficulties. The book highlights what true witchcraft is really about, and I was completely absorbed in the story at all times, reading the book in one sitting. Lilly Peppertree: Lilly’s Spell is recommended to fans of children’s books about witchcraft and magic, and it will be a welcome addition to any library.… (mehr)