Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch

Another middle grade fantasy, Eva Evergreen: Semi-Magical Witch, follows a young girl trying to prove herself even with a lack of magical ability.

Though away from her parents, Eva’s not alone. Her trusty companion throughout her journey to help the residents of Auteri and earn her title never leaves her side. And, what’s more, is her animal companion is one I hadn’t seen before reading this book—it's a flamefox.

The flamefox, better known as Ember, loves food but loves her person, Eva, more—something that will resonate with people who love pets (and people who just love, well, love)!  

This book is the perfect cozy read, which I feel like I really need right now. It follows Eva, a young witch with only a pinch of magic, who has to undertake a quest in order to earn the rank of Novice Witch. The book is filled with lovable characters, inventive problem-solving, and delicious descriptions (especially of food!). I could snuggle up in this world forever.

While this book doesn’t necessarily feature any mythological characters or retellings, it is a whimsical window into a magical secondary world, with many inspirations from Japanese culture. The best part about Julie Abe’s writing is her imaginary food, the way she’s able to draw from her own culture to make delicious masterpieces that I wish existed in real life! Eva, the book’s main character, is such an adorable person who is eager to learn and face the challenges presented to her, and the connections with new friends she makes along the way are beautifully told. 

I glanced at my broomstick propped in the corner. I’d told Conroy that I could fly, but that was a bit of a stretch. Like my magic, I’d practiced and practiced but never quite gotten the hang of it.

This book is like a love letter to Kiki’s Delivery Service, striking upon similar themes and notes, but forging its own path with distinctive characters and a strong system of magic. Readers are going to love the flamefox (I did)! There’s also a sequel.