This graphic novel will appeal to younger middle grade readers. They’ll find a fun story emphasizing the importance of individuality.

Jazzy is not alone in being a witch. The small town where she lives is full of them and her family has their own broom making shop. But Jazzy isn’t feeling the magic of flying a broom. Rather than flying on one she rather be a cyclist, maybe being in a race someday. She’s sure this normal non-witch behavior of bicycle riding will not go over well with her parents.

Jazzy pushes forth anyway, ignoring her responsibility of learning how to ride and fly on a broom. Instead, she puts together a bicycle from spare parts so she can practice her new passion.

This causes disagreements with her best friend who doesn’t want to be her friend anymore. There’s also an upcoming parade where young witches will show off their flying skills. Without having practiced, Jazzy is for sure going to fail and be in big trouble with her family.

The colorful, bold illustrations add to the page turning quality of the story. JAZZY THE WITCH in BROOM DOOM is a nice choice for those who enjoy graphic novels with an engaging plot.

PAGE COUNT: 232 BOOK BIRTHDAY: July 15, 2025

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: JAZZY THE WITCH in BROOM DOOM by Jessixa Bagley

1. Jazzy’s pet bat, Fiona, has many lighthearted comments and cringe worthy comebacks. A fun addition to the story.
2. Her family really shined in their reaction after finding out how Jazzy felt about all this witch stuff.
3. The variety in how pages were laid out from 5-6 panels on a page to several pages having just one panel. No eye strain reading this cute story.
4. Pursuing your passion is the positive message.
5. After “The End” there are some interactive pages where the fun continues. Learn how to put together a Besom, a unique type of broom, and make some spore prints. There’s also a sneak preview of the next book in the series: Jazzy the Witch in Friend Fiasco.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jessixa Bagley is a children’s book author-illustrator with a background in fine art and comics. She has had work featured in publications such as New American Paintings, Highlights Magazine, The Stranger, and Illustoria Magazine. She’s also the author of the middle grade graphic novels Duel and Dear Jackie (illustrated by Aaron Bagley) and the author-illustrator of the middle grade graphic novel series Jazzy the Witch. Jessixa is a two-time Washington State Book Award recipient; first in 2016 for her debut picture book, Boats for Papa, and again in 2024 for her graphic novel, Duel. Jessixa also received a 2018 Ezra Jack Keats Honor Award for picture book Laundry Day. Many of her books are Junior Library Guild Selections. In her work, she’s drawn to animals and emotional themes often inspired by her own experiences. Jessixa also teaches and speaks about writing and illustration. She often illustrates for other writers and artistically collaborates with her husband, Aaron Bagley. Jessixa lives in Seattle with her husband and son. (author website)

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW! AND BE SURE TO VISIT ALL THE OTHER BLOGGERS ON TODAY’S MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY!