In children’s literature, witches – whether they are good or bad, have long been mainstay figures, especially during October – the Halloween season. These enchantress’ range from the playful portrayals of kindly hags to mischievous sorceresses. Picture books that feature witches invite their young readers into worlds of wonder, magic and friendship. These Halloween stories, with their softly glowing jack-o’-lanterns and starry nights, ensure that young page turners have gentle fun thrills rather than real scares. With whimsical rhyming text and vibrant artwork, they spark excitement without causing frightful nightmares, making them ideal reading for cosy bedtime story times. One of these fun picture books is the modern classic Room on the Broom by Julia Donalson and Axel Scheffler (first published in 2001).
Room on the Broom is a perfect example of witch-themed storytelling for young children. With its rhythmic verse and heart-warming message of inclusion and friendship, combined with colourfully vibrant and enchanting illustrations, they capture everything that makes a Halloween picture-book magic, charming and smiley fun.
Room on the Broom is a children’s picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. The story follows a cheerful witch, who wears a very tall hat and her loyal cat as they soar through the autumn skies on a creaky old broom. But autumn is a windy season and when the wind inevitably blows her hat, bow, and wand away, the witch happily stops to retrieve each lost object and picks up a new friend each time. A helpful dog, bird and frog join the airborne procession, trading small favours for broom space. But when a fearsome dragon appears, the witch’s broom snaps in half and the dragon is looking at dinner. But her new companions’ brave teamwork comes to her rescue.
Overall, Room on the Broom is a fantastically fun adventure that plays out in jaunty rhyme which just rolls off the tongue, making the story a joy to read aloud. But she isn’t a spellcasting evil witch, she is more warm-hearted and generous, more sharing and caring. The story keeps young readers on the edge of their seats as on her journey she keeps losing things and making new friends along the way who find them. By the books end, kindness and collaboration triumph, leaving children with the satisfying message that everyone deserves a place on the broom.
The story has a range of fun characters – the witch who we have already met, her trusty cat who is her sidekick, the dog, bird and frog who each bring their own unique personality and the dragon, a delightfully exaggerated villain. The cast of characters add humour, anticipation and help teach about diversity, cooperation, collaboration and problem-solving.
As with any picture book there are of course wonderful illustrations. Axel Scheffler’s expressive artwork transforms the rhyming text into a world of swirling autumn leaves, glowing lanterns and expressive faces. With a rich use of colour; oranges, purples and midnight blues, he captures Halloween’s palette while ensuring every page bursts with detail – it really brings the story to imaginative life.
This story is lots of gentle fun. With friends helping the witch defeating the dramatic dragon, it provides just the right amount of thrill for children aged three to seven. Yet despite the scary dragon there’s no lasting fear as the dragon’s comical defeat leaves everyone smiling.
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Room on the Broom remains an essential Halloween picture book. With its elegant rhyme, unforgettable characters and heart-warming message of inclusion it is a favourite for parents, teachers and young page turners.
Room on the Broom is an excellent story told in rhyme that has a playful narrative around inclusion, friendships and empathy.
Rating: 5/5
RRP: £7.99 (Paperback)
Available to buy from Amazon here.
