Witch Catcher

In this spooky middle grade story, when her widower father inherits a castlelike estate in the mountains of West Virginia, 12-year-old Jen is thrilled. It seems like a wish come true. But she quickly realizes that not all change is positive. Her dad has a mysterious new girlfriend, Moura, who slowly drives a wedge between Jen and her father. Furthermore, Moura has an unusually strong—almost obsessive—interest in the antiques that fill the mansion, especially a beautiful glass globe that Jen finds hanging in a window. When Jen’s cat accidentally breaks the globe, which Moura calls a “witch catcher,” strange things begin to happen. . . .

   An odd-looking girl wearing a torn dress appears, seemingly out of nowhere, and Moura’s behavior becomes more sinister, leading Jen to believe that her father is a pawn in an evil scheme. Soon Jen finds herself caught in the midst of a supernatural war between witches and fairies, with the fate of an enchanted race—and her family—at stake.

   Inspired by the age-old legend of witch catchers, Mary Downing Hahn brings a magical cast of characters to life in this compelling fantasy adventure. Author’s note.

• Perfect for Halloween reading
• Features light scares
• A charming cozy seasonal pick

"An intriguing read." —Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"Page-turning suspense." —School Library Journal

"An original fantasy/horror adventure...Hahn's fans and devotees of Emily Rodda's many series will be heartily pleased." —Kirkus Reviews

"A fast-paced, suspenseful fantasy in which an appealing heroine stands against forces seemingly beyond her control." —Booklist, ALA

"Hahn's many fans will come right along on this author's first foray into magical fantasy." —Horn Book

"An excellent start for uninitiated fantasy readers." —Horn Book Guide, Pointer