Spelling

Spelling is an illustrated book for children set in a land of witches and wizards. Students must learn to cast effective "spells" in order to become full members of their community. Not everyone passes, and the consequences of failure can be dire.

Thalia can talk to her animal friends, but can't cast a single spell. She refuses to eat meat or use it in any potion. If she doesn't pass her "spelling" test, she won't become a witch like her mother and her teacher; she'll become human. Her parents and teacher try to trick her into eating meat so that she can pass.

Steve Barish is the author of several mysteries and adventures, most recently, After the Fox, and Invasive Species.