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The Witching Wind
From Natalie Lloyd, bestselling author of A Snicker of Magic and Hummingbird, comes a heart-expanding adventure about the magic of family, friendship, and the lengths we go for the people we love.
Eleven-year-old Roxie was excited to start sixth grade... until a mortifying incident at a pool party turns her into a middle school laughingstock. Roxie can't imagine enduring a full year of bullying and body shaming, so when her country music star Granny invites Roxie to join her on tour, she jumps at the chance to leave her troubles behind. But then Granny--who's been struggling with memory loss--goes missing, leaving Roxie without an escape plan... and without her best friend.
Grayson doesn't mind being sent to yet another foster home. Her older sister, Beanie, is about to turn eighteen, which means she'll be able to become Grayson's guardian. It won't be long until they live in the same house again. It won't be long until they get to be a real family. But when Beanie's birthday finally arrives, she doesn't show up to collect Grayson. She doesn't respond to calls or texts. It's almost like she's just... vanished.
Roxie knows Granny would never leave without saying goodbye. And Grayson is certain Beanie would never abandon her. So when the new friend learn about the Witching Wind that "steals" what people love most, Roxie and Grayson are certain they've discovered the truth. Granny and Beanie didn't just disappear--they were taken. And it's up to Roxie and Grayson to outwit the Witching Wind before it's too late.
Eleven-year-old Roxie was excited to start sixth grade... until a mortifying incident at a pool party turns her into a middle school laughingstock. Roxie can't imagine enduring a full year of bullying and body shaming, so when her country music star Granny invites Roxie to join her on tour, she jumps at the chance to leave her troubles behind. But then Granny--who's been struggling with memory loss--goes missing, leaving Roxie without an escape plan... and without her best friend.
Grayson doesn't mind being sent to yet another foster home. Her older sister, Beanie, is about to turn eighteen, which means she'll be able to become Grayson's guardian. It won't be long until they live in the same house again. It won't be long until they get to be a real family. But when Beanie's birthday finally arrives, she doesn't show up to collect Grayson. She doesn't respond to calls or texts. It's almost like she's just... vanished.
Roxie knows Granny would never leave without saying goodbye. And Grayson is certain Beanie would never abandon her. So when the new friend learn about the Witching Wind that "steals" what people love most, Roxie and Grayson are certain they've discovered the truth. Granny and Beanie didn't just disappear--they were taken. And it's up to Roxie and Grayson to outwit the Witching Wind before it's too late.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published September 3, 2024
About the author
Natalie Lloyd
13 books490 followersNatalie Lloyd is the New York Times Bestselling Author of novels for young readers (and the young at heart).
Her first novel, A Snicker of Magic (2014), was an ALA Notable Book, a New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice, a top 10 Kids Indie Next Pick and an NPR, iBooks and Parents Magazine best book of the year for children. The book has been optioned for television by Sony Tristar. Natalie’s other novels include The Key to Extraordinary (Scholastic 2016), The Problim Children series (HarperCollins/Katherine Tegen 2017), and Over the Moon (Scholastic 2019). These novels have won accolades from Entertainment Weekly, Junior Library Guild, SIBA, Amazon and Bank Street College of Education, among others. Silverswift, her first Audible Original, was published in 2020. Hummingbird, her seventh (and most personal) novel for kids, was published in August 2022. In January 2023, it was awarded a Schneider Family Honor Award by the American Library Association. Her next novel, The Witching Wind, will be available in Fall 2024.
Natalie writes in the shadows beside a sunny window in Chattanooga, Tennessee. She loves adventuring with her husband, Justin, and their dogs.
Her first novel, A Snicker of Magic (2014), was an ALA Notable Book, a New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice, a top 10 Kids Indie Next Pick and an NPR, iBooks and Parents Magazine best book of the year for children. The book has been optioned for television by Sony Tristar. Natalie’s other novels include The Key to Extraordinary (Scholastic 2016), The Problim Children series (HarperCollins/Katherine Tegen 2017), and Over the Moon (Scholastic 2019). These novels have won accolades from Entertainment Weekly, Junior Library Guild, SIBA, Amazon and Bank Street College of Education, among others. Silverswift, her first Audible Original, was published in 2020. Hummingbird, her seventh (and most personal) novel for kids, was published in August 2022. In January 2023, it was awarded a Schneider Family Honor Award by the American Library Association. Her next novel, The Witching Wind, will be available in Fall 2024.
Natalie writes in the shadows beside a sunny window in Chattanooga, Tennessee. She loves adventuring with her husband, Justin, and their dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
November 18, 2024
I went in expecting a book about witches, because of the title and synopsis, and came out charmed by a story about friendships and family. The magic here is delicate and ephemeral, but the story about growing up and finding out who you are is powerful.
June 3, 2024
The Witching Wind is a middle-grade magical realism novel based around a magical wind that blows in with a monarch butterfly as the only warning to batten down the hatches. The story follows two girls, one who is disabled and a foster child, the other who is just trying to navigate entry into middle school and the loss of friendships. The representation in this book will impact the students who read it as well as the adults who share it with them. The Witching Wind touches on all the things middle school-aged children struggle with bullying, body shaming, missing people, strokes, loss of grandparents, older siblings moving on, and so much more. One thing that irked me was the lack of closure for Beanie and her sister Grayson; Grayson spends the whole novel waiting for her older sister to come and be a family with her, and I get the age difference and wanting not to have the responsibility of raising a younger disabled sister from how Grayson talked about the love and connection the two sisters had I expected a final conversation from Beanie explaining her side of the story. The Witching Wind will be a great read to share when it releases in September 2024.
September 22, 2024
Not quite meeting the high bar of Hummingbird, but still lovely. A charming, heartfelt novel with a touch of magic about finding your people. The main characters were well-drawn, and the grandmother storyline was particularly poignant & a good introduction to kids who may be navigating the onset of dementia for an aging loved one.
September 3, 2024
**Book Review: The Witching Wind by Natalie Lloyd**
Natalie Lloyd has a way of weaving magic into her stories, and The Witching Wind is no exception. The enchanting charm that captivated readers in her previous works is definitely present here. The interwoven stories of Roxie and Grayson are heartfelt and moving, their journey together touching on themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery. The friendships they form with others throughout the book evoke memories of the Daisy Brigade from The Key to Extraordinary- a group of characters who feel like old friends by the end.
Lloyd’s signature elements are back, too—crows, wind, and flowers play important roles in the story, reminding me of why The Key to Extraordinary remains my favorite of her books. These natural elements add an extra layer of magic and mystery to the tale, making it all the more special.
However, I did find the book to be a bit lengthy. While the story is rich and engaging, I felt it could have been trimmed down to maintain a tighter pace. Some sections dragged a little, making it feel longer than necessary.
That said, I still found myself deeply moved by the book. Lloyd's exploration of friendship and the bonds of family had me wiping away tears on more than one occasion. The Witching Wind may is a story filled with warmth, heart, and the kind of magic that leaves a lasting impression.
3.5 stars
***I won an ARC through a giveaway and my review is that of the ARC, not the final version. ***
Natalie Lloyd has a way of weaving magic into her stories, and The Witching Wind is no exception. The enchanting charm that captivated readers in her previous works is definitely present here. The interwoven stories of Roxie and Grayson are heartfelt and moving, their journey together touching on themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery. The friendships they form with others throughout the book evoke memories of the Daisy Brigade from The Key to Extraordinary- a group of characters who feel like old friends by the end.
Lloyd’s signature elements are back, too—crows, wind, and flowers play important roles in the story, reminding me of why The Key to Extraordinary remains my favorite of her books. These natural elements add an extra layer of magic and mystery to the tale, making it all the more special.
However, I did find the book to be a bit lengthy. While the story is rich and engaging, I felt it could have been trimmed down to maintain a tighter pace. Some sections dragged a little, making it feel longer than necessary.
That said, I still found myself deeply moved by the book. Lloyd's exploration of friendship and the bonds of family had me wiping away tears on more than one occasion. The Witching Wind may is a story filled with warmth, heart, and the kind of magic that leaves a lasting impression.
3.5 stars
***I won an ARC through a giveaway and my review is that of the ARC, not the final version. ***
June 27, 2024
These characters! Their stories! The legends and folklore behind the Witching Wind!
The storytelling by Natalie Lloyd is just magical!
This book has heart and meaning while helping to deliver some truths about life and what it means to be a human in this world. It is also adventurous and honors those deep and special friend groups you can form (for me especially so in middle school like the characters).
One I will for sure recommend to my students and add to my library collection.
The storytelling by Natalie Lloyd is just magical!
This book has heart and meaning while helping to deliver some truths about life and what it means to be a human in this world. It is also adventurous and honors those deep and special friend groups you can form (for me especially so in middle school like the characters).
One I will for sure recommend to my students and add to my library collection.
October 12, 2024
Grayson Patch is my favorite Natalie Lloyd character yet. I love her outlook on life!!
September 12, 2024
No one writes heartwarming and magical stories quite like Natalie Lloyd. The Witching Wind is wonderful.
March 17, 2024
“Love’s the only magic worth anything, Roxie.”
💨
Roxie was so excited to start sixth grade, until an embarrassing incident leaves her feeling sad and lonely. Her Granny is her favorite person and they make a deal to go out on tour together, that way Roxie can escape the ridicule she’s sure to face on the first day of school. Unfortunately before they can leave, Granny goes missing. Grayson is headed to a new foster home, again. Only this time she only has to be there for two days until her sister, Beanie, turns eighteen and can take care of her. But when Beanie never shows up, Grayson is convinced she vanished. Both girls find it odd that their loved ones both went missing on the same day that the Witching Wind was the worst it’s been in years. Did the wind take them away and how can Grayson and Roxie get them back?
🌪️
Oh, my heart. If there’s one author who can win the prize for best MG magical realism I’m giving it to the amazing @natalielloydbooks She writes with such heart; it was pouring from every page because she has such a great heart. The representation in this book will make such an impact on the students who read it (and the adults too). This novel releases September 17 and I can’t wait to book talk it to my readers!
I received a free copy for an honest review. @scholastic
CW: physical disability, bullying, body shaming, missing person, stroke, hospitalization, memory loss, abandonment, adoption, fostering
💨
Roxie was so excited to start sixth grade, until an embarrassing incident leaves her feeling sad and lonely. Her Granny is her favorite person and they make a deal to go out on tour together, that way Roxie can escape the ridicule she’s sure to face on the first day of school. Unfortunately before they can leave, Granny goes missing. Grayson is headed to a new foster home, again. Only this time she only has to be there for two days until her sister, Beanie, turns eighteen and can take care of her. But when Beanie never shows up, Grayson is convinced she vanished. Both girls find it odd that their loved ones both went missing on the same day that the Witching Wind was the worst it’s been in years. Did the wind take them away and how can Grayson and Roxie get them back?
🌪️
Oh, my heart. If there’s one author who can win the prize for best MG magical realism I’m giving it to the amazing @natalielloydbooks She writes with such heart; it was pouring from every page because she has such a great heart. The representation in this book will make such an impact on the students who read it (and the adults too). This novel releases September 17 and I can’t wait to book talk it to my readers!
I received a free copy for an honest review. @scholastic
CW: physical disability, bullying, body shaming, missing person, stroke, hospitalization, memory loss, abandonment, adoption, fostering
September 16, 2024
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Witching Wind by Natalie Lloyd has Roxie and Grayson trying to find their loved ones.
Will Roxie and Grayson save Granny and Beanie from the Witching Wind?
Roxie Darling
Roxie Darling is twelve years old, and she's not having a great start on her middle grade experience. She's already been bullied by the most popular girl in their class, and she doesn't know why. Not only that, but Roxie's Granny has gone missing. Besides that, the young girl is now shy, unlike how she was before being bullied. Roxie is resilient, though. I like Roxie and how she deals with everything happening to her.
Grayson Patch
Grayson Patch is in the same grade as Roxie, but unlike Roxie, Grayson is in foster care. She also needs a walker to get around because her bones are brittle, and she's small for her age. I do feel bad for Grayson for a lot that she has to endure. Grayson is one of those characters who doesn't care about what anyone thinks of her. She has one of those faces where she looks mad when she isn't. I do like Grayson and how she figures out a lot about herself.
The Story
Roxie and Grayson, and four other characters become the least likely friends. This group of friends help each other navigate the treachery of middle school in the first couple of weeks. Roxie, Grayson, and their friends also help each other get the stuff they lost to the wind. I loved Roxie and Grayson's friends since they helped each other out a lot and trusted each other. Another thing that I liked was how easily they got along and brought each other up when they were down or convinced someone that a guy like likes them.
Four Stars
The Witching Wind by Natalie Lloyd brings together a bunch of people that one wouldn't think could be friends and has them solve the mystery of the Witching Wind. I loved this story a lot, and I give it four stars. Ms. Lloyd is a great author, and this book brought back memories of sixth grade and how having a group of friends that has your back is worth it to stand up to a bully.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Witching Wind by Natalie Lloyd.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
The Witching Wind by Natalie Lloyd has Roxie and Grayson trying to find their loved ones.
Will Roxie and Grayson save Granny and Beanie from the Witching Wind?
Roxie Darling
Roxie Darling is twelve years old, and she's not having a great start on her middle grade experience. She's already been bullied by the most popular girl in their class, and she doesn't know why. Not only that, but Roxie's Granny has gone missing. Besides that, the young girl is now shy, unlike how she was before being bullied. Roxie is resilient, though. I like Roxie and how she deals with everything happening to her.
Grayson Patch
Grayson Patch is in the same grade as Roxie, but unlike Roxie, Grayson is in foster care. She also needs a walker to get around because her bones are brittle, and she's small for her age. I do feel bad for Grayson for a lot that she has to endure. Grayson is one of those characters who doesn't care about what anyone thinks of her. She has one of those faces where she looks mad when she isn't. I do like Grayson and how she figures out a lot about herself.
The Story
Roxie and Grayson, and four other characters become the least likely friends. This group of friends help each other navigate the treachery of middle school in the first couple of weeks. Roxie, Grayson, and their friends also help each other get the stuff they lost to the wind. I loved Roxie and Grayson's friends since they helped each other out a lot and trusted each other. Another thing that I liked was how easily they got along and brought each other up when they were down or convinced someone that a guy like likes them.
Four Stars
The Witching Wind by Natalie Lloyd brings together a bunch of people that one wouldn't think could be friends and has them solve the mystery of the Witching Wind. I loved this story a lot, and I give it four stars. Ms. Lloyd is a great author, and this book brought back memories of sixth grade and how having a group of friends that has your back is worth it to stand up to a bully.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Witching Wind by Natalie Lloyd.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
June 26, 2024
It’s been a rainy week, but for those of us who are bookworms, we’ve used some of the extra time inside as an excuse to READ! Natalie Lloyd’s Hummingbird is one of my top 10 of all time, so curling up with an ARC of The Witching Wind is such a joy that I can’t even begin to describe it. 💕
- - -
“There are so many things in the world powerful people can control, but weather isn’t one of them. And Grayson thinks that’s kinda profound—no matter how strong or rich or powerful you are, the wind can still take you down anytime it wants.”
“Sometimes I wonder if dogs are the way God hugs us while we’re here on earth.”
“I’ll wait in the darkness for you.”
“I don’t think people always realize how loud whispers can be. How your heart’s hearing is even better than your ears.”
“You okay?”
“Oh yeah. Your party was really fun. And I don’t typically like parties.”
“Same,” Grayson says.
party. I love dogs. I tolerate people.”
“Do you have a dog?”
She shakes her head. “I wish. No pets yet, but that’s one of my life goals— to love and be loved by a dog.” When Grayson Elizabeth Palmetto Patch says these true and perfect words, I make a decision: I will be her friend. She will be mine. Anybody who believes that truth, which is surely one of the best in the universe, is the kind of person I want to know.
“You gotta shine. Then shine a little harder.“
“You’re freaking fearless.”
If you have a sister, you’ll do anything -anything- to get her back with you.”
“Doesn’t the world know how to be sad? Stupid, stupid sunshine.”
“The real magic was the people who came to the mountain. The ones brave enough to believe they mattered, even when people told them they didn’t. The ones who knew they had a story to tell. Or who believed their story would get better.”
“There’s always somebody who will try to silence your story. But there is also, always, somebody who wants to hear it. Somebody who’ll give you a safe place to sit. And share. And send your words into the world, however you want them said.”
“Gone from this world? A while now. Gone from here?” She taps her heart. “Never.“
“Love is just bigger than all the bad stuff.”
- - -
“There are so many things in the world powerful people can control, but weather isn’t one of them. And Grayson thinks that’s kinda profound—no matter how strong or rich or powerful you are, the wind can still take you down anytime it wants.”
“Sometimes I wonder if dogs are the way God hugs us while we’re here on earth.”
“I’ll wait in the darkness for you.”
“I don’t think people always realize how loud whispers can be. How your heart’s hearing is even better than your ears.”
“You okay?”
“Oh yeah. Your party was really fun. And I don’t typically like parties.”
“Same,” Grayson says.
party. I love dogs. I tolerate people.”
“Do you have a dog?”
She shakes her head. “I wish. No pets yet, but that’s one of my life goals— to love and be loved by a dog.” When Grayson Elizabeth Palmetto Patch says these true and perfect words, I make a decision: I will be her friend. She will be mine. Anybody who believes that truth, which is surely one of the best in the universe, is the kind of person I want to know.
“You gotta shine. Then shine a little harder.“
“You’re freaking fearless.”
If you have a sister, you’ll do anything -anything- to get her back with you.”
“Doesn’t the world know how to be sad? Stupid, stupid sunshine.”
“The real magic was the people who came to the mountain. The ones brave enough to believe they mattered, even when people told them they didn’t. The ones who knew they had a story to tell. Or who believed their story would get better.”
“There’s always somebody who will try to silence your story. But there is also, always, somebody who wants to hear it. Somebody who’ll give you a safe place to sit. And share. And send your words into the world, however you want them said.”
“Gone from this world? A while now. Gone from here?” She taps her heart. “Never.“
“Love is just bigger than all the bad stuff.”
August 28, 2024
Natalie Lloyd's books are the literary equivalent of your grandmama’s blueberry crunch cobbler fresh out of the oven. They’re a little bit magic and a whole lotta heart.
Roxie and Grayson will tug at your heartstrings with their inner strength and innate kindness even when the world is throwing hard things at them. And that pilfering Witching Wind will definitely steal your heart and fill it up with hope.
Roxie and Grayson will tug at your heartstrings with their inner strength and innate kindness even when the world is throwing hard things at them. And that pilfering Witching Wind will definitely steal your heart and fill it up with hope.
October 17, 2024
Natalie Lloyd is magical! The Witching Wind once again has characters, Roxie and Grayson, who find a place in our hearts. They will stick with me for a long time. Highly recommend reading her latest novel!
October 28, 2024
Natalie Lloyd’s brand of magic always feels so organic and unique. The Witching Wind is no exception! Grayson, Roxie and their friends are so sweet and supportive of each other. I loved that what they found wasn’t quite what they spent so long looking for, but each was exactly what they needed. 🦋
November 17, 2024
This was so beautiful and moving, an amazing adventure filled with wonderful characters who felt so real to me. I'm sitting here crying after finishing it. I borrowed this from my library and now I think I have to buy a copy because it was so wonderful. Roxie and Grayson have my heart forever.
October 2, 2024
My favorite Lloyd has written yet!!
September 19, 2024
“She imagines her heart, broken. Covered in crackly fault lines. But love still shines, even through the broken places. There’s plenty of love-light to share, too. So that’s what she does.”
This is another magical realism book from Lloyd, and the things that often shine in her books are present in spades here.
First is the characters. Every character in this book shines, even some characters that never have “on-screen” time and are only mentioned. The side characters, even a toddler and the elementary school librarian, come to life and make everything feel like I could be put right in the middle of their school and point out the people I recognize. I also loved how while the grown-ups are flawed, they aren’t completely useless either. Parents tell kids they want to hear what their kid is struggling with, and adults listen when they point out things that need work.
Our two main characters are different, with different voices, personalities, and struggles. I often struggle with books with multiple POVs because it’s often hard for me to distinguish between them, but that isn’t the case here. Grayson manages to have an incredibly positive attitude despite her many disappointments and setbacks. Roxie is self-conscious and sad about what happened with her ex-best friend. Both need people to understand them beyond their defense mechanisms, and the way they view each other in their respective points of view help build the characters in a way you don’t often get to see in a single POV book.
The kids in this book might get to see some magical happenings, but they aren’t spared from how hard life can be. They’re dealing with body shaming, missing family members, growing up, disabilities, and class in the rural Appalachian Tennessee background. They have to learn how to deal with grief when what they’re hoping for isn’t magically solved.
The magic in this book doesn’t cure or fix, which is something I love. Too often, the magic comes in and solves all the problems. In this case, the magic helps them understand themselves and life a little better. The magic is well balanced with the real world, so I was never confused about what might be magic and what wasn’t, which can be tricky in magical realism books. The magic also fits well with the setting. Families having a “knack” for certain things is exactly the kind of magic that fits so well in Appalachia.
The other thing I can’t help but love is Natalie Lloyd’s prose. I often find myself highlighting sentences because they’re just so beautiful. I still think of one particular line from “A Snicker of Magic,” and I think there are a few sentences from this book that might stick in my head too.
Occasionally, the book was a little too sweet and idealistic for me as an adult reader, but I think it will resonate well with many readers.
Overall, this is another magically sweet story about things that are missing and finding ourselves.
This is another magical realism book from Lloyd, and the things that often shine in her books are present in spades here.
First is the characters. Every character in this book shines, even some characters that never have “on-screen” time and are only mentioned. The side characters, even a toddler and the elementary school librarian, come to life and make everything feel like I could be put right in the middle of their school and point out the people I recognize. I also loved how while the grown-ups are flawed, they aren’t completely useless either. Parents tell kids they want to hear what their kid is struggling with, and adults listen when they point out things that need work.
Our two main characters are different, with different voices, personalities, and struggles. I often struggle with books with multiple POVs because it’s often hard for me to distinguish between them, but that isn’t the case here. Grayson manages to have an incredibly positive attitude despite her many disappointments and setbacks. Roxie is self-conscious and sad about what happened with her ex-best friend. Both need people to understand them beyond their defense mechanisms, and the way they view each other in their respective points of view help build the characters in a way you don’t often get to see in a single POV book.
The kids in this book might get to see some magical happenings, but they aren’t spared from how hard life can be. They’re dealing with body shaming, missing family members, growing up, disabilities, and class in the rural Appalachian Tennessee background. They have to learn how to deal with grief when what they’re hoping for isn’t magically solved.
The magic in this book doesn’t cure or fix, which is something I love. Too often, the magic comes in and solves all the problems. In this case, the magic helps them understand themselves and life a little better. The magic is well balanced with the real world, so I was never confused about what might be magic and what wasn’t, which can be tricky in magical realism books. The magic also fits well with the setting. Families having a “knack” for certain things is exactly the kind of magic that fits so well in Appalachia.
The other thing I can’t help but love is Natalie Lloyd’s prose. I often find myself highlighting sentences because they’re just so beautiful. I still think of one particular line from “A Snicker of Magic,” and I think there are a few sentences from this book that might stick in my head too.
Occasionally, the book was a little too sweet and idealistic for me as an adult reader, but I think it will resonate well with many readers.
Overall, this is another magically sweet story about things that are missing and finding ourselves.
May 27, 2024
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Roxie Darling's grandmother, Ruthie Diamond Darling, was a folk singer when she was younger, and Roxie wants to follow in her footsteps. Since Ruthie wants to hit the road again, Roxie is excited, especially after an unfortunate incident at a school pool party has left her feeling "less than" and caused her to be estranged from her best friend, Loretta. Grayson Patch also has a complicated life; she's in foster care and uses a walker because of her brittle bone disease, but she is hopeful that her older sister Beanie will connect with her on the sister's 18th birthday, and the two will get an apartment in New York City together. For now, Grayson is being cared for by the Cottons, who have a three year old daughter, Freya. In the girls' Tennessee town, there is a Witching Wind that causes a lot of distress, and this season has seen more and stronger winds pummel the town. When Granny Ruth goes missing, Roxie's cousin Collette (along with her pet groundhog) helps Roxie look for her, and also tells Roxie some of the history of the wind, which is tied to the True sisters who lived on Monarch Mountain. Grayson struggles with the fact that her sister won't text her back, and reaches out to a social worker, Donna for help. At school, the girls realize that they are both dealing with someone who is missing, as well as unfriendly people at school, and end up together with a supportive group called the Yeehaws. After Granny Ruth, is found in the woods, she doesn't remember Roxie. The medical professionals claim that she had a stroke, but Roxie is determined that the wind has stolen her memories. The Yeehaws plans a camping trip on the mountain to find out the secret of the Whispering Wind. The Cottons agree to let Grayson go. Roxie is also struggling with her self esteem, and is given negative messages about her weight again and again, especially by school personnel. She gets better messages from Grayson, who informs her that "every body is a swimsuit body". Once on the mountain, Roxie meets Addison True, who says that Ruth had visited her recently in order to obtain something for Roxie. Will Roxie be able to find out the truth about the wind, and will Grayson be able to make peace with her family situation?
Like Lloyd's other titles (The Key to Extraordinary and A Snicker of Magic), this has a quirky, Southern setting and strong themes of female empowerment, family ties, and everyday magic that resonate with a lot of people. Expect to see a lot of love for this new story. At 368 pages, it is a bit longer than other middle grade magical realism titles.
Roxie Darling's grandmother, Ruthie Diamond Darling, was a folk singer when she was younger, and Roxie wants to follow in her footsteps. Since Ruthie wants to hit the road again, Roxie is excited, especially after an unfortunate incident at a school pool party has left her feeling "less than" and caused her to be estranged from her best friend, Loretta. Grayson Patch also has a complicated life; she's in foster care and uses a walker because of her brittle bone disease, but she is hopeful that her older sister Beanie will connect with her on the sister's 18th birthday, and the two will get an apartment in New York City together. For now, Grayson is being cared for by the Cottons, who have a three year old daughter, Freya. In the girls' Tennessee town, there is a Witching Wind that causes a lot of distress, and this season has seen more and stronger winds pummel the town. When Granny Ruth goes missing, Roxie's cousin Collette (along with her pet groundhog) helps Roxie look for her, and also tells Roxie some of the history of the wind, which is tied to the True sisters who lived on Monarch Mountain. Grayson struggles with the fact that her sister won't text her back, and reaches out to a social worker, Donna for help. At school, the girls realize that they are both dealing with someone who is missing, as well as unfriendly people at school, and end up together with a supportive group called the Yeehaws. After Granny Ruth, is found in the woods, she doesn't remember Roxie. The medical professionals claim that she had a stroke, but Roxie is determined that the wind has stolen her memories. The Yeehaws plans a camping trip on the mountain to find out the secret of the Whispering Wind. The Cottons agree to let Grayson go. Roxie is also struggling with her self esteem, and is given negative messages about her weight again and again, especially by school personnel. She gets better messages from Grayson, who informs her that "every body is a swimsuit body". Once on the mountain, Roxie meets Addison True, who says that Ruth had visited her recently in order to obtain something for Roxie. Will Roxie be able to find out the truth about the wind, and will Grayson be able to make peace with her family situation?
Like Lloyd's other titles (The Key to Extraordinary and A Snicker of Magic), this has a quirky, Southern setting and strong themes of female empowerment, family ties, and everyday magic that resonate with a lot of people. Expect to see a lot of love for this new story. At 368 pages, it is a bit longer than other middle grade magical realism titles.
November 16, 2024
“There’s always somebody who will try to silence your story. But there is also, always, somebody who wants to hear it. Somebody who’ll give you a safe place to sit. And share. And send your words into the world, however you want them said.”
Grayson is moving into yet another foster home, separated from her sister, Beanie. But that’s okay. She and Beanie have a plan that when Beanie turns 18, they will take off together to New York City and live their best life. And Beanie’s birthday is just a few days away.
Roxie has just had the most humiliating experience to start middle school. Thanks to bully, Love Kilgore, going to school is like going into battle. To make matters worse, her best friend now seems to prefer to hang out with Love than with Roxie. Why? What happened?
Luckily, these two girls meet in a morning school club soon to be know as “The Yeehaws,” a group of kids would couldn’t get into any other clubs. There’s Ameerah, Eli, Mars, and Ernie. Together, these Yeehaws form a formidable friendship in which they stand up for each other and always have each other’s back. Which comes in handy when bad things start to happen. First, Grayson’s sister seems to disappear; then Roxie’s granny. Could it be the witching wind?
There is a legend in their town that says a single butterfly proceeds the witching wind, the wind that the True sisters, who were run out of town because they were called witches, created that snatches people out of thin air. But is this legend really true? Or is there something else happening here? Roxie and Grayson are determined to find out what has happened to their loved ones, even if it means facing the nefarious True sisters.
I love this story, which at the heart is about two girls who need support from one another, and they get it. Grayson is an amazing character who helps Roxie find her voice. And Roxie helps Grayson understand that it’s okay to care for someone, maybe even love them. “Love’s the only magic worth anything.” Beautifully done!
Grayson is moving into yet another foster home, separated from her sister, Beanie. But that’s okay. She and Beanie have a plan that when Beanie turns 18, they will take off together to New York City and live their best life. And Beanie’s birthday is just a few days away.
Roxie has just had the most humiliating experience to start middle school. Thanks to bully, Love Kilgore, going to school is like going into battle. To make matters worse, her best friend now seems to prefer to hang out with Love than with Roxie. Why? What happened?
Luckily, these two girls meet in a morning school club soon to be know as “The Yeehaws,” a group of kids would couldn’t get into any other clubs. There’s Ameerah, Eli, Mars, and Ernie. Together, these Yeehaws form a formidable friendship in which they stand up for each other and always have each other’s back. Which comes in handy when bad things start to happen. First, Grayson’s sister seems to disappear; then Roxie’s granny. Could it be the witching wind?
There is a legend in their town that says a single butterfly proceeds the witching wind, the wind that the True sisters, who were run out of town because they were called witches, created that snatches people out of thin air. But is this legend really true? Or is there something else happening here? Roxie and Grayson are determined to find out what has happened to their loved ones, even if it means facing the nefarious True sisters.
I love this story, which at the heart is about two girls who need support from one another, and they get it. Grayson is an amazing character who helps Roxie find her voice. And Roxie helps Grayson understand that it’s okay to care for someone, maybe even love them. “Love’s the only magic worth anything.” Beautifully done!
June 23, 2024
Natalie Lloyd returns to the mystic, heart-warming wonderful of her Key to Extraordinary with this wonderful middle grade read! Silas County, Tennessee is nestled in the Appalachian Mtns and legend says that the wild winds, called Witching Winds by the locals, are a result of the magic of one of two elderly sisters who lived up on the ridge and not only do they drive everyone indoors but precious objects and even people can be carried away. 12 year old Grayson is newish to town, headed to the next foster home on a not so short list of places she’s stayed and Roxie is trying to put an Incident behind her and slink her way through 6th grade. Both girls lose someone they love dearly on the night of a Witching Wind and together with newfound friends, set out to find a grandmother and a sister but instead, find new strength in themselves, trust in others and begin to understand the depth of love that can be found if you let yourself “be real.”
Lloyd’s characters are straight from the sixth grade anywhere-all searching to find their niche, handle the meanness that swirls the hallways, and to be loved. Grayson has brittle bones and uses a walker, Roxie isn’t as thin as others seem to think she should be, Ameerah wears a headscarf, Eli is in a wheelchair, and Mars does not want to known by his address. Wonderful messages to love the skin you’re in, keep searching for YOUR people and stop worrying about everybody else, and love comes in all sizes and from unexpected places.
Text is free of profanity, violence and sexual content. Target age range: grades 4-7. Would pair nicely with Lloyd’s Key to Extraordinary, Storm Dog (L. M. Elliott), Brave Like That (Lindsey Stoddard), Mostly the Honest Truth (Jody J Little) and Because of the Rabbit (Cynthia Lloyd).
Lloyd’s characters are straight from the sixth grade anywhere-all searching to find their niche, handle the meanness that swirls the hallways, and to be loved. Grayson has brittle bones and uses a walker, Roxie isn’t as thin as others seem to think she should be, Ameerah wears a headscarf, Eli is in a wheelchair, and Mars does not want to known by his address. Wonderful messages to love the skin you’re in, keep searching for YOUR people and stop worrying about everybody else, and love comes in all sizes and from unexpected places.
Text is free of profanity, violence and sexual content. Target age range: grades 4-7. Would pair nicely with Lloyd’s Key to Extraordinary, Storm Dog (L. M. Elliott), Brave Like That (Lindsey Stoddard), Mostly the Honest Truth (Jody J Little) and Because of the Rabbit (Cynthia Lloyd).
August 15, 2024
Besides dealing with cataclysmic issues on the homefront, two new Tennessee middle-schoolers—namely, Grayson, who is simultaneously facing a brand-new foster placement plus the blow of an unexplained abandonment by her older sister, who has been the only bright spot in Grayson’s past history of letdowns; and self-conscious classmate Roxie, gobsmacked by the unexplained disappearance of her beloved granny, who is Roxie’s singing partner, confidante, and hero—this pair of new classmates are thrust head-on into the worst of middle-school agony: in Roxie’s case, body-shaming, bullying, and a treacherous ex-best friend, and in Grayson’s, having to downplay her nontypical home situation while guessing that her physical disability (she uses a walker to get around) is all too visible to judgmental eyes. Though one is outwardly self-assured bordering on smart-alecky (a defense mechanism) and the other a confirmed introvert, both are desperately lonely in their grief, and both are hoping to make connections with kindred spirits in their new school and outside of it. Through a sensitive school librarian’s Newcomers Club, the two girls and a small posse of other “misfits” get to know, like, and depend on one another, affording not just solid friendships but a culminating daring weekend camping adventure quest, assisted by unwitting adults, for the purpose of confronting the fabled “Witching Wind” of the mountains whose magic the kiddos hope to channel to reclaim their respective losses. If you are looking for “root-worthy” kids battling plenty of heartache with plenty of heart—and a fair dose of magic mixed in—then this irresistible middle-grade novel is for you. I loved everything about it.
July 30, 2024
Literary Merit: 3.5/5 Lloyd's characters have a tendency to feel a tad young and pretty angelic; the introduction of Grayson as one of the povs for this book fully veers away from that trend. I am here for it. Graysons directness and high confidence really won me over and paired nicely with Roxie. The rest of the characters did not really receive much characterization, but Roxie and Grayson were the clear stars of the show. The plot also mirrored some of Lloyd's other works, but felt improved upon. As with the characters, much of the plot felt more believable than previous novels. The themes of friendship and coming-of-age are done in a very positive light encouraging all middle grade readers to let themselves "shine".
Originality: 2/5 This feels very much like an improved version of Hummingbird. I am here for all of the improvements, but it's not original.
Accuracy: 5/5 The world and characters were clearly described and then remained consistent throughout the novel.
Clarity: 5/5 Lloyd's balance of realistic fiction with a suggestion of magic really shines in this novel. The hints of magic are showcased from the start meaning you're never left guessing what's real and what's not.
Total: 15.5/20
Age Range: No professional reviews as of 7/30
Originality: 2/5 This feels very much like an improved version of Hummingbird. I am here for all of the improvements, but it's not original.
Accuracy: 5/5 The world and characters were clearly described and then remained consistent throughout the novel.
Clarity: 5/5 Lloyd's balance of realistic fiction with a suggestion of magic really shines in this novel. The hints of magic are showcased from the start meaning you're never left guessing what's real and what's not.
Total: 15.5/20
Age Range: No professional reviews as of 7/30
August 29, 2024
I love Natalie Lloyd's books. She writes such beautiful books about family, and friendships, set against the Appalachian Tennessee background.
I really liked our two main characters Roxie & Grayson. I love the representation of disability and how you can still have a beautiful life. Grayson is struggling when her sister Beanie doesn't show much to get her like they planned on her 18th birthday. I loved watching Grayson adjust and find a group of friends that really cared for her. And she really grew to care for them.
Roxie is dealing with her grandma disappearing and being made fun of because she is a "bigger" girl. But she's strong and proud of who she is and a great musician. She struggles, but these new friends really help her though it all
I loved the "witching wind" and how it is like it's own character. I liked learning more about this community and this beautiful area. I would love to go and visit there.
"I imagine her words full of light, framed by wings, fluttering around somewhere deep inside. Where they'll shine forever." Lloyd has such a way with words and there were so many lines like this. I can't wait to have a copy and highlight all these beautiful lines like this.
Such a beautiful middle grade novel.
Thanks NetGalley for this ARC.
I really liked our two main characters Roxie & Grayson. I love the representation of disability and how you can still have a beautiful life. Grayson is struggling when her sister Beanie doesn't show much to get her like they planned on her 18th birthday. I loved watching Grayson adjust and find a group of friends that really cared for her. And she really grew to care for them.
Roxie is dealing with her grandma disappearing and being made fun of because she is a "bigger" girl. But she's strong and proud of who she is and a great musician. She struggles, but these new friends really help her though it all
I loved the "witching wind" and how it is like it's own character. I liked learning more about this community and this beautiful area. I would love to go and visit there.
"I imagine her words full of light, framed by wings, fluttering around somewhere deep inside. Where they'll shine forever." Lloyd has such a way with words and there were so many lines like this. I can't wait to have a copy and highlight all these beautiful lines like this.
Such a beautiful middle grade novel.
Thanks NetGalley for this ARC.
October 23, 2024
Roxie can't wait to start sixth grade...until an incident at the pre-school year pool party shows her that she is not ready in the ways that the other girls are ready. As though that weren't bad enough, her grandmother whose memory is starting to slide disappears, and Roxie suspects the Witching Wind, a local legend about a type of wind that many people believe steals what people love most. At the same time, Grayson, another girl beginning sixth grade, is counting the days until her older sister Beanie's 18th birthday, the day Beanie will come for her, take her out of foster care, and begin a new life for her in New York City. However, Beanie never arrives. Roxie's and Grayson's lives intertwine in their efforts to retrieve what they love from the Witching Wind. Both girls, with the help of their new friends Ameerah and Eli, are determined to outwit the Witching Wind to retrieve what they both love. This story is about making real friends and helping each other during difficult times. I predict that many middle grades readers will hope they can fashion a friendship group like the one in this book.
November 7, 2024
Natalie Llyod characteristically blends enchantment with an empowering feel-good story. In a small Smokey Mountains town, the Witching Wind is legend. Said to be bewitched, it steals things. This Witching Wind season is unusually active. As Roxie begins sixth grade, music and her folksinger grandmother are her refuge from bullying, that is, until Granny suddenly disappears. New girl, Grayson Patch, is a bold, non-non-sense girl with a new foster family and with a fragile disability; but she doesn't let her differences dull her shine. Except Grayson's older sister has vanished too. Roxie and Grayson are certain their loved ones wouldn't leave without even saying goodbye, and suspect that the Witching Wind may have taken them with all the other lost things. Together with their new sixth grade friends, the girls set out to find the Witching Winds source and reclaim what they've lost.
The novel doesn't quite come together as well as some of Lloyd's other stories, such as "Silverswift," and , but it is a a wonderfully empowering, body-positive story about being oneself, and how love over comes pain and loss.
The novel doesn't quite come together as well as some of Lloyd's other stories, such as "Silverswift," and , but it is a a wonderfully empowering, body-positive story about being oneself, and how love over comes pain and loss.
September 12, 2024
I really don’t know where to begin with what I loved most about this book. The prose! The setting! The magic! But I think what captured my heart more than anything else were the two main characters, Roxie and Grayson. They are just so real - so flawed and confused and beautiful and brave - I absolutely fell in love with them and their stories. I love how Natalie Lloyd routinely injects wonder into otherwise everyday occurrences and really makes the reader believe and feel that magic could be hiding anywhere.
This is a book about friendship, about accepting yourself, about coping with really hard situations, and about being honest and vulnerable with others. It’s a small picture of the world I wish we all lived in (except for Love… you’ll get that reference if you read it). It’s a book I’ll be sharing with students and recommending to teachers!
This is a book about friendship, about accepting yourself, about coping with really hard situations, and about being honest and vulnerable with others. It’s a small picture of the world I wish we all lived in (except for Love… you’ll get that reference if you read it). It’s a book I’ll be sharing with students and recommending to teachers!
September 9, 2024
Author Natalie Lloyd (Hummingbird) is known for the magic she infuses into her stories — both in her writing and in the stories she weaves.
The Witching Wind is no different. A special kind of wind that takes things away, but also carries them back. It’s a great setup.
The wind itself almost becomes a character. But it’s Grayson and Roxie who steal the show. Told through alternating voices, you are given a front-row seat to their hopes, fears and even dreams.
While it might seem as if the Witching Wind is central to this story, it’s more the framework that carries Lloyd’s story of family and friendship and how those bonds motivate actions.
The Witching Wind is a fast-moving middle-grade read that will appeal to fans of magical realism.
The Witching Wind is no different. A special kind of wind that takes things away, but also carries them back. It’s a great setup.
The wind itself almost becomes a character. But it’s Grayson and Roxie who steal the show. Told through alternating voices, you are given a front-row seat to their hopes, fears and even dreams.
While it might seem as if the Witching Wind is central to this story, it’s more the framework that carries Lloyd’s story of family and friendship and how those bonds motivate actions.
The Witching Wind is a fast-moving middle-grade read that will appeal to fans of magical realism.
October 15, 2024
After an embarrassing incident at the community pool, Roxie is ready to leave her middle school behind and go on tour with her grandma. Grayson is okay starting a new school after joining a new foster family, because she knows it's only temporary. Her older sister is about to turn 18 and is going to come get her so they can finally be together. But then a Witching Wind blows through and strange things begin to happen. Suddenly, Roxie's grandma and Grayson's sister seem to be missing. Can Roxie and Grayson team up and rescue their loved ones?
This was such a good book. I loved Roxie and Grayson. I loved their friend group. I loved the touch of magic.
I also highly recommend the audiobook-- there are songs throughout and there is guitar and someone actually singing. It was beautiful.
This was such a good book. I loved Roxie and Grayson. I loved their friend group. I loved the touch of magic.
I also highly recommend the audiobook-- there are songs throughout and there is guitar and someone actually singing. It was beautiful.
September 9, 2024
Oh Ms. Lloyd!! You caught me off guard. This is everything you have come to expect from this author, but I found it also had so much more depth. The characters of Roxie and Grayson are fully developed, which adds to the richness of the story. I never felt the story to be lacking when the POV changed. Themes include family - including all the different types and the hurts and joys that come with that, friendship - including trust and unconditional acceptance, and the definition of beauty - including who gets to make that definition. I loved this book.
September 15, 2024
Natalie Lloyd does it again. Such a beautiful story, told in the voices of two girls trying to hold their own hearts together. They find, of course, that the best way to heal your own heart is to help heal someone else's. I read the physical book and listened to the audio, and the audio is gorgeous.
In addition to the patented Lloyd magic, this book supports readers and families facing elder care challenges. For those of us living this reality, some parts are hard to read. But that's where the magic is - hard to read but such a comfort to feel seen.
In addition to the patented Lloyd magic, this book supports readers and families facing elder care challenges. For those of us living this reality, some parts are hard to read. But that's where the magic is - hard to read but such a comfort to feel seen.
August 5, 2024
I really enjoyed this story of a group of students overlooked by their peers who, together, find their voices and strengths. Young readers will see themselves and, hopefully, learn to use their voices for good. I was sent this book for a virtual author fest and wish I had paid more attention to the author explaining why she wrote it. Read more about it on my blog: https://shouldireaditornot.wordpress....
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