Story by Roald Dahl – reviewed by Circe Aguiar
The Witches is a thrilling and slightly spooky tale that blends fantasy, danger, and cleverness in the most Roald Dahl way. The story follows a young boy who goes to live with his kind, cigar-smoking Norwegian grandmother after his parents die in a car accident. She tells him strange and scary stories about witches—not the type with broomsticks and pointy hats, but real witches, who look like ordinary women and hate children more than anything else.
In Dahl’s story, real witches wear gloves to hide their claws, wigs to cover their bald heads, and shoes to fit their toeless feet. They’re everywhere, blending into society, always plotting how to get rid of children. While on holiday at a seaside hotel, the boy accidentally discovers that the Grand High Witch herself is leading a secret meeting there. Her latest evil plan? Turning every child in England into mice using a magic potion.
When the boy is caught and transformed into a mouse, he doesn’t give up. With the help of his brave and resourceful grandmother, he hatches a daring plan to stop the witches and save other children. Even though he stays a mouse, he learns to face life with courage, hope, and wit.
The story is packed with suspense, dark humor, and bold ideas. Roald Dahl doesn’t sugarcoat the danger, which is part of what makes the book so exciting and unforgettable. At its heart, The Witchesis about being brave in the face of evil, using your mind to outsmart your enemies, and finding strength even when you feel small.
It’s a book that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, and with Quentin Blake’s wild illustrations, it’s both creepy and fun. The Witches reminds us that even the smallest child—or mouse—can make a big difference.