The Extraordinary History of Witches

Ages 8 to 12, Grades 3 to 7

Discover the spellbinding history of witches.

Travel through time and across the globe to uncover a rich tapestry, woven from bewitching tales of historical witch trials, magical folklore, and potions, spells, and relics.

Featuring immersive storytelling from expert author Hazel Atkinson and enchanting illustrations from Camelia Pham, this book covers everything from the origin of the word “witch” to the modern-day beliefs of Wiccans. Meet magical women from history such as Baba Yaga who lives in a hut standing on chicken legs, learn how to concoct potions from flowers, plants, and magical creatures, and hear about the different forms of magic across the world, from Ancient Egyptian Heka to South American Brujeria.

This book isn’t afraid to go beyond other titles on witchcraft, and delve into the ways women have been unfairly treated throughout history for supposedly practicing magic. Subjects such as witch hunts and trials from around the world are covered sensitively and appropriately for the age group.

Stunning illustrated portraits and scenes, fascinating photos of historical artefacts, and riveting stories and facts, will leave readers totally charmed.

About the Author

Hazel Atkinson is a British writer based in Newcastle. With a background in History and Classics, her work draws on folklore and classical myth. She has been placed in several competitions over the past few years, including the V S Pritchett Memorial prize and the H G Wells Short Story Competition.

Professor Diane Purkiss is an Australian historian who is Professor of English Literature at Oxford and fellow of Keble College, Oxford. Her interests include the supernatural, especially witchcraft; food and food history; children’s literature; folklore and fairytale.

Camelia Pham is a Vietnamese illustrator and art director based in Hanoi. Her work focuses on bold colors, and decorative frames. She has won numerous prizes for her illustrations, including the Batsford Prize 2018.