A Bad Spell for the Worst Witch
Jill Murphy
A Bad Spell for the Worst Witch
Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide
by Jill Murphy
The text is written at a 4th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content is gentle with no concerning themes.
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About This Book
Mildred Hubble is not just any trainee witch—she’s officially the worst at Miss Cackle’s Academy! No matter how hard she tries, her spells go haywire and her tabby cat causes more trouble than magic. What will happen when everything starts spinning out of control?
Quick Assessment
This middle-grade fantasy follows Mildred Hubble, a well-meaning but clumsy trainee witch determined to overcome her reputation as the worst witch at her academy. The story balances humor with themes of perseverance and self-acceptance, making it suitable for children ages 9-12. Mildred's magical mishaps are lighthearted and presented in a way that encourages resilience without any intense content.
For Parents
Content Intensity
9LE — Light — EmotionalNo conflict beyond everyday childhood experiences. Safe for sensitive readers.
Was our "Gentle" content intensity rating accurate for this book?
Reading Insights
Hook Factor
3/10A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.
Discussion Potential
1/10A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.
Book DNA
Multi-dimensional content fingerprint
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Details
Book Length
- ISBN
- 9781855492325
- Pages
- 110
- Publisher
- Penguin UK
- Published
- January 1996
- Type
- Fiction