The Witch Boy – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

The Witch Boy

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

book2017

86%

WISE Score

4.7

Amazon

A boy who wants to be a witch in a family where only girls cast spells—gender roles meet magic in this charming graphic novel.

The Witch Boy

book

2017

86%

WISE Score

4.7

Amazon

A boy who wants to be a witch in a family where only girls cast spells—gender roles meet magic in this charming graphic novel.

4.7

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Screenwise Verdict

This is exactly what middle-grade graphic novels should be—accessible, meaningful, and genuinely enjoyable. The Witch Boy uses a magical world to explore gender expectations and self-acceptance without being didactic or heavy-handed. Aster's journey from hiding his witch abilities to saving his family with them is satisfying and age-appropriate.

The graphic novel format is clutch here—it makes the magic visually engaging and keeps reluctant readers hooked. Parents love it for good reason: it handles identity themes with warmth and nuance, showing kids that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is be yourself, even when your family doesn't understand at first.

The plot is admittedly a bit thin (reviewers note it's 'light on plot'), but for this age group, that's not a dealbreaker. The character work and world-building carry it. This is a great pick for kids who loved Amulet or Nimona, or any kid who's ever felt like they don't quite fit the mold their family expected.

Age Fit

Perfect for ages 8-13, especially kids who love graphic novels or are thinking about identity and fitting in. The fantasy framework makes complex themes accessible for upper elementary readers, while the emotional depth keeps middle schoolers engaged.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Models courage, self-acceptance, and friendship in the face of rigid family expectations. Aster's journey to embrace his identity as a witch despite gender norms is handled with warmth and age-appropriate emotional depth. Charlie's non-magical, non-conforming friendship provides healthy support. The story balances family tension with resolution, showing that being true to yourself can ultimately strengthen relationships. No gratuitous conflict or mean-spirited dynamics.

Imaginative

A magical world with clear rules—girls become witches, boys become shapeshifters—creates an engaging framework that's both familiar and fresh. The graphic novel format brings the magic to life visually. The premise invites kids to think about breaking boundaries and questioning 'the way things have always been.' However, reviews note the plot is 'a little light,' suggesting it's more charming than deeply inventive. Still, it's a solid supernatural fantasy that sparks curiosity about identity and magic systems.

Safe

Extremely safe for middle-grade readers. No violence beyond the 'mysterious danger' that threatens other boys (handled age-appropriately). No sexuality, gore, or disturbing content. The gender identity themes are explored through fantasy metaphor in an accessible, non-preachy way. Parent reviews confirm it's appropriate for younger audiences. The only mild tension comes from family conflict and the threat Aster must face, both standard middle-grade fare. Amazon rating of 4.7 suggests broad parent approval.

Enriching

Tackles meaningful themes—gender roles, family expectations, self-acceptance, courage—through an accessible fantasy lens. Kids can explore what it means to be different in your family and find the courage to be yourself. Charlie's role as a supportive friend models good allyship. The story shows that sometimes the 'wrong' path is actually the right one. Parent reviews highlight how well it handles identity issues for younger audiences. It's both entertaining and thought-provoking without being heavy-handed.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Tackles gender expectations and self-acceptance through an engaging fantasy world that feels fresh without being preachy
Graphic novel format makes it accessible for reluctant readers while still delivering emotional depth
Charlie's friendship with Aster shows what good allyship looks like—supporting someone to be themselves
The magic system (witches vs. shapeshifters) is clear and compelling, giving kids a framework to think about arbitrary rules
Satisfying ending where being yourself actually saves the day—not just accepted but celebrated

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What to Watch For

Gender non-conformity is the central theme—Aster is a boy who wants to practice 'girls' magic,' which is clearly a metaphor for broader identity exploration
Some family conflict and tension as Aster faces potential exile for crossing gender lines
Plot is a bit light according to reviewers—more character-driven than action-packed
The 'mysterious danger' that threatens other boys is age-appropriate but does create some stakes

Conversation Starters

"Why do you think Aster's family has such strict rules about who can be a witch? Do we have any rules like that in our world?"
"What would you do if you were really good at something but people told you it wasn't for you?"
"Charlie doesn't have magic but still helps Aster. What makes someone a good friend?"
"If you could choose between being a witch or a shapeshifter, which would you pick and why?"

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