Come and Dance, Wicked Witch

PreS-Gr 2—The animals of the forest are planning a party, and they invite everyone— even the wicked witch. Despite the fears of the hedgehog and owl, the hare insists that she would not bewitch them, "not at a party." The grumpy witch curtly refuses their invitation, but when the big night arrives, she absently hums along with the jolly music, causing her poisonous spell to go awry. In anger, she marches off to confront the partygoers, fully intending to punish them, but the hare welcomes her sincerely, the owl offers her treats, and the other animals sing for her. Whisked into a dance by the hare, the witch loosens up and uses her magic to create a huge, colorful cake for all to enjoy. Originally published in the Netherlands, this is a story about including everyone, giving those who behave poorly a chance to redeem themselves, and using deliberate kindness to bring out the best in others. The expressive, delicate ink and watercolor illustrations convey a sense of movement and joy. However, Bonny Becker's A Visitor for Bear and A Birthday for Bear express a similar message with more wit and charm.