100% in my top 10 books of all time. Because it's awesome. I read this book every Halloween without fail! Honestly, I can not find a single fault; it's fantastically written (it's Eva Ibbotson, goes without saying really!), has a brilliantly funny and magical storyline and it's perfect for the young and old alike. One thing I love about it is that I can recommend it with confidence to readers just starting to get confident with reading bigger chapter books but may be put off by reading a book that's "too long/big" but also to anyone who is looking for a fun read full of magic that is still surprisingly realistic despite the presence of familiars, bottomless holes and princesses turned into swans! Just trust me and read it!

If you're getting sick of Roald Dahl you should really try Eva Ibbotson. I love any kids story with a witch in it, and this has a whole coven. I love the different characters and the plot of this book plays out like a reality TV show for wizard and witch dating (but don't worry kid friendly). The only problem is pitting witch against witch, all fighting for the wizard prize, which feels a bit old fashioned. But I can forgive it for all the other weird and wonderful things that happen. Love it and in the process of reading everything else she's ever written!