Review Detail

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!