A Bewitching novel

Recently, I had the pleasure of reading Alex Flinn's novel, Bewitching. It is the behind the scenes story of Kendra, the witch responsible for the beastly transformation of Kyle Kingston in Beastly (also by Alex Flinn). This book, however, takes a look at the trials of a girl named Emma. Her life is turned upside down when her stepfather's daughter moves into their house. From here the novel just becomes more interesting. Supposed friends of Emma's turn their back on her and focus on Lisette, Emma's stepsister who puts on a friendly facade while hatching evil plans. Throughout this book, additional tales from Kendra's life are interwoven seamlessly to demonstrate the different dimensions of human character present when it comes to treating people differently depending upon their looks. This gives the story a different levels of intensity and action, entertaining the reader to the very end.

At the beginning of the book, the plot introduces the untold back-story of how Kendra became a witch. This story takes the reader back to England in 1666. Throughout the tale, Kendra shows how strong her character is and how she really wishes to do people no harm. This communicates to the reader that at times, one must act not out of self-benefit, but in a charitable fashion to ensure that others are taken care of. From this story, it is also shown how Kendra became used to acting out of needs of self preservation not only for herself, but for her family. It really makes one think about what they would do if their family was faced by a tragic accident.

From here, Emma and Lisette are introduced. Emma is the stereotypical nerd who likes to read and memorize lines from the book. She is interested in her grades because they never treat her badly like the people in her life. Lisette, on the other hand, is the run of the mill beauty queen. Her skinny frame, shiny blonde hair, and blue eyes trap anyone who sets their eyes upon her. The bad thing about this is that Lisette knows and understands the effects her beauty has upon people and uses it to her advantage. She learns how to make people feel bad for her, love her, and is a master a blackmailing Emma. This becomes the main focus of the book, the impact a person's appearance can have on how they are treated and how they treat others. The battle between these two girls captures the reader and makes the story seem so lifelike at times.

Sub-stories included via Kendra's memory are historically based and reinforce the events of the main plot between Emma and Lisette. These tales range from Louis, Dauphin of France, and his romantic obstacles of the early 1700s to the sinking of the "unsinkable" vessel Titanic in 1912. In these stories, a couple of love crossed lovers are focused on, and the lessons learned from their experiences are applied to the main plot of Emma and Lisette. It is a very inventive way to communicate different lessons to the reader without being boorish.

In the end, Bewitching is an exciting book that will satisfy readers nationwide. It may not end with a glass slipper that fits a specific foot or a ring on the finger, but it's ending gives hope to girls out there who have yet to find their prince charming.