BOOK REVIEW: Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch

Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch by Julie Abe
Publication Date: August 4th, 2020

Calling all fans of Kiki’s Delivery Service! Do I have a book for you! Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch by Julie Abe is the perfect coming-of-age magical witch story. A young witch striking out on her own to prove herself in her craft. I must be a sucker for this trope, because I was instantly pulled in by Eva’s plight of being the only semi-magical witch in existence. The world building and writing were also so extensive that I mostly forgot it was written for middle grade readers (and not my 25 year old self).  I really have nothing bad to say about this book. So get ready for some serious fangirling and anticipation for the rest of the series.

What I Liked:

• As a huge Studio Ghibli/Miyazaki fan, I thoroughly enjoyed reading a story reminiscent of Kiki’s Delivery Service, with all the soft, underpowered witchy vibes. But this is almost better because it’s being written as a book series, which means I get more world-building of this magical, witchy, questing type of world. (Got any other recs? Please comment the below!)
• Speaking of world-building, I really enjoyed the introduction to Eva’s world via the town of Auteri. It, and all of its citizen’s, were endearing if a bit begrudging at first. I can’t wait for Eva’s adventures to take her all over her world & to see what other unique wonders Julie Abe can create.
• I really loved the entire cast of characters! They were all over the map, and yet each was a fantastic addition to the book. I am excited to follow up with them in future books.
• I loved the magic of the world, but also the interesting tweak to Eva’s unique type of magic. I truly cannot wait to see how her magic will grow further on in the series. Also, her magic just works in really weird, bizarre, funky ways and the end result is always interesting.
• Thoroughly enjoyed the fact this middle grade read didn’t include a romance plot to muddle the waters. It was a refreshing balance of plot, magical mishaps, & personal growth. (I should really read more middle grade books.)

What I Didn’t Like:

• If I really have to gripe about one thing, I wish we had seen Eva using her pinch of magic slightly more. The magical mishaps she manages to blunder into are equally entertaining and ingenious. I would have loved to see way more of them happen, but I guess that’s what the rest of the series is for, no?

Recap

Basically, I recommend picking up Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch if you’re in the mood for a fantastically whimsical, coming-of-age witch story. Or just picking it up period. From the magic, to the characters, & the funny little mishaps, the book is endearing to its core. I will be only too excited to pick up all future additions to this series.

5/5 stars

xoxo, Bree