Unexpected Visitors (Diary of an Accidental Witch, #7)

Diary of an Accidental Witch #7 Unexpected Visitors is a high-energy, fast-paced story for early chapter book readers. The illustrations add so much humor and interest to the story. The diary format keeps the plot moving and gives the story a personable tone. The diary format does hinder the book from having more in-depth or emotional scenes as much of the play-by-play action is skipped, and we are only given the recap, as you would expect in a diary. This is the seventh book in the series, but the first one I have read, and there are a few references to past occurrences while still being easy to jump right into this book’s adventure. The book ends on a cliffhanger that makes readers want to immediately start the next book. Overall, this is an engaging chapter book that is great for readers who are ready for longer text but need illustrative support to keep their attention for longer spans of time.

UNEXPECTED VISITORS is a fun new installment in the DIARY OF AN ACCIDENTAL WITCH chapter book series! Bea is thrilled that her father has agreed that they can stay in Little Spellshire and that she can continue attending her school. At school, there is a lot of commotion for some VIWs who are going to be visit. As rumors run rampant and everyone tries to get the school into tip-top shape, things seem to keep going awry.

What I loved: This is another charming and humorous installment in a highly engaging chapter book series. The unique format adds to the fun with the story being told through Bea's diary entries as well as various paper items, such as newspaper articles. As such, it is really designed to be read independently rather than being read aloud, and the engaging writing really pulls young readers into the story. This installment is another fun one with plenty of comedy as things go awry and heartfelt moments with Bea and her father, as well as with friends and some teachers.

These books are continuous, so while readers could pick one up, they do work best when read in order. Bea is a compelling and endearing character, who doesn't always get everything right but really tries her best. Her friends are likewise as heartfelt, and even her enemies have their moments. Stan the frog is a particular favorite, and he frequently steals the scene.

The illustrations are fantastic and frequent throughout the book. They have a great quality that feels like they could have been sketched alongside the diary, but they are also expressive and detailed. They help to bring the story to life and break up text for budding independent readers.

Final verdict: UNEXPECTED VISITORS is another clever and heartfelt chapter book in a beloved series! Highly recommend picking this whole series up if you enjoy magic, humor, and fantastic characters!