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Mari the Unwonderful Witch
Mari is an eleven-year-old witch who loves her life. Indeed, what's not to love about spending time with her amazing mothers, hanging out with her clever friends, eating delicious food and experimenting with fashion?
But, if you ask any of the other witches in town, Mari loves her life a little too much. After all, a wonderful witch puts the needs of others before herself. Magic should be used to help humans - not (for example . . .) creating giant donuts for you and your classmates to scoff.
But Mari doesn't care what other people think of her - and when disaster strikes her town, she'll need to convince the other witches to have the courage to break free, too, and be just as wildly unwonderful as she is.
A charming, cosy and thought-provoking tale about an UN-wonderfully unconventional little witch, perfect for anyone who likes an enchanting adventure with just a hint of mischief!
But, if you ask any of the other witches in town, Mari loves her life a little too much. After all, a wonderful witch puts the needs of others before herself. Magic should be used to help humans - not (for example . . .) creating giant donuts for you and your classmates to scoff.
But Mari doesn't care what other people think of her - and when disaster strikes her town, she'll need to convince the other witches to have the courage to break free, too, and be just as wildly unwonderful as she is.
A charming, cosy and thought-provoking tale about an UN-wonderfully unconventional little witch, perfect for anyone who likes an enchanting adventure with just a hint of mischief!
224 pages, Hardcover
First published December 25, 2023
About the author
Asako Yuzuki
40 books1,181 followersAsako Yuzuki (柚木 麻子, Yuzuki Asako) is a Japanese writer. She won the All Yomimono Prize for New Writers and the Yamamoto Shūgorō Prize. Asako has been nominated multiple times for the Naoki Prize, and her novels have been adapted for television, radio, and film.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
October 11, 2026
I have never read Asako Yuzuki other acclaimed works yet, which makes this my first real dive into her writing. I have heard enough about her reputation, though, to approach this with equal parts curiosity and apprehension especially since this is a bit of a departure from what I would typically expect from her, being a middle-grade book.
My first thought was that this would remind me of Kiki’s Delivery Service, which honestly sounded like a lot of fun because I absolutely adore Kiki. However, having finished the book, I have come to realize that the two have little in common beyond the fact that their protagonists happen to be witches.
Mari is an 11-year-old witch who lives with her two witch moms. A gourmand girl with a love for fashion, she has a habit of breaking the rules, especially the one that says magic must never be used for oneself. After using her magic to enlarge a jam doughnut, she sends her entire school into a panic. Fortunately, her two best friends, Suji, a math whiz, and Rei, an admirer of witches, help her escape the worst of the chaos. Her moms, however, are less than pleased. After all, adults insist that a witch must learn to live harmoniously with others and grow into a “wonderful witch” who uses her magic to help those around her.
First off, I really love the whole vibe of this book. Even the character illustrations and the map of the town on the front page helped bring the world to life and gave me a clearer picture of what to imagine while reading. The witches in this story also feel much more audacious, which I thoroughly enjoy because they embody what I would expect witches to be like. In many other books, I often feel like witches' powers come with so many limitations, and they tend to become frail after using them. Mari, on the other hand, is unwavering. She uses her magic as she pleases, without constantly worrying about whether she is using it the right way or for the right reasons (exactly like using Enlargement Magic because you find your donut jam not enough).
The character dynamics also feel very much in line with what I would expect from a middle-grade novel: a girl navigating friendships, a little rivalry, and all the very childlike drama that comes with growing up. Undeniably, it is quite charming about how familiar and age-appropriate these dynamics feel, especially because the conflicts never become overly antagonistic. Even when the characters disagree or compete with one another, there is not much real animosity between them, which makes their interactions all the more fun to read.
Beneath all its whimsy, however, the novel also seems to have something to say about what it means to be a powerful witch. Witches in this world gradually lose their powers over time, and their history with humans, particularly through the story of the Stone Flower, suggests that living harmoniously together has required some degree of compromise. In trying to coexist with humans, witches have had to restrain themselves and give up certain freedoms, including the freedom to do what they truly want and love. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, it does raise an interesting question about what happens when harmony comes at the cost of self-expression.
Perhaps this is where Mari comes in. She is anything but the textbook example of what a wonderful witch should be, and yet, her refusal to fit neatly into those expectations might be precisely what makes her so powerful. Perhaps being an unwonderful witch is the secret after all! Alongside its exploration of authenticity, social expectations, and the narrow roles women are often expected to fulfil, the novel also celebrates something as simple as a love of food. It is a beautifully inclusive fantasy world that scouts the complexities of building a more equal society in a way that remains clear, engaging, and accessible to younger readers.
Now drum roll for the incoming BUT... 🥁
Children’s literature can be surprisingly interesting and resonant even for adults. Still, there were moments when I felt a certain didactic quality to this book—not necessarily because it tells its readers what to think, but because its intentions are so apparent. From the outset, all the characters belong to the LGBTQ community, and the story is interspersed with lessons about human rights and the different ways one might choose to live.
As a children’s book, it uses the world of witches as a way to make these ideas more accessible to young readers. At the same time, I sometimes felt as though the story was carrying a message that it wanted very much to communicate, rather than allowing its themes to emerge entirely on their own. Perhaps this is what made certain moments feel a little self-conscious to me. Given what I know of the author's previous work, I also found myself wondering whether I was particularly aware of the intention behind the writing, and whether that awareness made the book feel a little pretentious to me... I am still not entirely sure how I feel about it.
So, is Mari a wonderful witch or a wonderful mess? Either way, I am not throwing in the towel on Yuzuki just yet. Let's just say this one left me with more food for thought than a magically enlarged jam doughnut. All in all, I would still happily fly broomstick-first into this whimsical world again.
My first thought was that this would remind me of Kiki’s Delivery Service, which honestly sounded like a lot of fun because I absolutely adore Kiki. However, having finished the book, I have come to realize that the two have little in common beyond the fact that their protagonists happen to be witches.
Mari is an 11-year-old witch who lives with her two witch moms. A gourmand girl with a love for fashion, she has a habit of breaking the rules, especially the one that says magic must never be used for oneself. After using her magic to enlarge a jam doughnut, she sends her entire school into a panic. Fortunately, her two best friends, Suji, a math whiz, and Rei, an admirer of witches, help her escape the worst of the chaos. Her moms, however, are less than pleased. After all, adults insist that a witch must learn to live harmoniously with others and grow into a “wonderful witch” who uses her magic to help those around her.
First off, I really love the whole vibe of this book. Even the character illustrations and the map of the town on the front page helped bring the world to life and gave me a clearer picture of what to imagine while reading. The witches in this story also feel much more audacious, which I thoroughly enjoy because they embody what I would expect witches to be like. In many other books, I often feel like witches' powers come with so many limitations, and they tend to become frail after using them. Mari, on the other hand, is unwavering. She uses her magic as she pleases, without constantly worrying about whether she is using it the right way or for the right reasons (exactly like using Enlargement Magic because you find your donut jam not enough).
The character dynamics also feel very much in line with what I would expect from a middle-grade novel: a girl navigating friendships, a little rivalry, and all the very childlike drama that comes with growing up. Undeniably, it is quite charming about how familiar and age-appropriate these dynamics feel, especially because the conflicts never become overly antagonistic. Even when the characters disagree or compete with one another, there is not much real animosity between them, which makes their interactions all the more fun to read.
Beneath all its whimsy, however, the novel also seems to have something to say about what it means to be a powerful witch. Witches in this world gradually lose their powers over time, and their history with humans, particularly through the story of the Stone Flower, suggests that living harmoniously together has required some degree of compromise. In trying to coexist with humans, witches have had to restrain themselves and give up certain freedoms, including the freedom to do what they truly want and love. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, it does raise an interesting question about what happens when harmony comes at the cost of self-expression.
Perhaps this is where Mari comes in. She is anything but the textbook example of what a wonderful witch should be, and yet, her refusal to fit neatly into those expectations might be precisely what makes her so powerful. Perhaps being an unwonderful witch is the secret after all! Alongside its exploration of authenticity, social expectations, and the narrow roles women are often expected to fulfil, the novel also celebrates something as simple as a love of food. It is a beautifully inclusive fantasy world that scouts the complexities of building a more equal society in a way that remains clear, engaging, and accessible to younger readers.
Now drum roll for the incoming BUT... 🥁
Children’s literature can be surprisingly interesting and resonant even for adults. Still, there were moments when I felt a certain didactic quality to this book—not necessarily because it tells its readers what to think, but because its intentions are so apparent. From the outset, all the characters belong to the LGBTQ community, and the story is interspersed with lessons about human rights and the different ways one might choose to live.
As a children’s book, it uses the world of witches as a way to make these ideas more accessible to young readers. At the same time, I sometimes felt as though the story was carrying a message that it wanted very much to communicate, rather than allowing its themes to emerge entirely on their own. Perhaps this is what made certain moments feel a little self-conscious to me. Given what I know of the author's previous work, I also found myself wondering whether I was particularly aware of the intention behind the writing, and whether that awareness made the book feel a little pretentious to me... I am still not entirely sure how I feel about it.
So, is Mari a wonderful witch or a wonderful mess? Either way, I am not throwing in the towel on Yuzuki just yet. Let's just say this one left me with more food for thought than a magically enlarged jam doughnut. All in all, I would still happily fly broomstick-first into this whimsical world again.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
THANK YOU penguin for the surprise bookmail of this gorgeous shiny cutie book 💖💓💝
this gave me huuuge kiki’s delivery service vibes and there is a lot to love about this cutie book!! 💓 the gorgeous illustrations, the cute characters, the heartwarming story and all the mentions of delicious pastries and food 🤤🍰🧁 the cover is very telling of the story. it’s sweet and a whole lot of fun :’) there are also poignant and relatable moments within the book, mainly touching on self-identity, burnout, youth, and friendship 🫶🏼 honestly i was smiling and admiring the beautiful illustrations throughout the whole book. it’s short and lovely and such a sweet time overall 💓💝💖💫⭐️✨
this gave me huuuge kiki’s delivery service vibes and there is a lot to love about this cutie book!! 💓 the gorgeous illustrations, the cute characters, the heartwarming story and all the mentions of delicious pastries and food 🤤🍰🧁 the cover is very telling of the story. it’s sweet and a whole lot of fun :’) there are also poignant and relatable moments within the book, mainly touching on self-identity, burnout, youth, and friendship 🫶🏼 honestly i was smiling and admiring the beautiful illustrations throughout the whole book. it’s short and lovely and such a sweet time overall 💓💝💖💫⭐️✨
August 12, 2026
this is a very sweet, all-encompassing novel about a society where witches and humans peacefully co-exist, so long as witches prove to be wonderful. enter mari, the unwonderful witch who loves using her powers for herself and not always for the good of others!
it’s been a really long time since i read a children’s book, and i really enjoyed spending time in mari’s world. in true Asako Yuzuki fashion, we get a myriad of descriptions of food and characters who are inadvertently and authentically themselves. this is a gorgeous and quaint town full of magic, trans and queer representation that does not feel like a tick box exercise, and an ensemble cast of characters that show how vital community and acceptance really is.
with Japanese literature having such a boom in general fiction, i’m so pleased to see a translated kids’ title hitting our shelves. Ecre Karadag did a fantastic job at creating this immersive and fantastical story; from capturing the dialogue of the older generation vs the younger characters to creating vivid scenes i could see playing out in my mind through rich descriptions.
I really recommend this book to anyone looking to escape to a magical and cosy land full of funny witches!
it’s been a really long time since i read a children’s book, and i really enjoyed spending time in mari’s world. in true Asako Yuzuki fashion, we get a myriad of descriptions of food and characters who are inadvertently and authentically themselves. this is a gorgeous and quaint town full of magic, trans and queer representation that does not feel like a tick box exercise, and an ensemble cast of characters that show how vital community and acceptance really is.
with Japanese literature having such a boom in general fiction, i’m so pleased to see a translated kids’ title hitting our shelves. Ecre Karadag did a fantastic job at creating this immersive and fantastical story; from capturing the dialogue of the older generation vs the younger characters to creating vivid scenes i could see playing out in my mind through rich descriptions.
I really recommend this book to anyone looking to escape to a magical and cosy land full of funny witches!
November 8, 2026
The cover draws you in and is clearly aimed at upper primary - about 8-12 year olds - mainly girls, with its sweet pink hues and charming witch on the front. I loved it, it does a great job of telling us who it wants to be readng this book and matches the vibe of the story very well.
It's promoted as suitable for those who love Kiki's Delivery Service. Does that look like a sort of Cabbage Patch Doll Kiki with pink hair? The pose works. Anyway, full marks to the design/marketing team. The cover is delicious. It really does remind me of candy - fairy floss and peppermint. There are not a huge number of illustrations in the book, but the ones there capture the quirky, happy mood of the book. Yum!
So what is a wonderful or unwonderful witch? A wonderful witch is a witch who works for the good of others and the good of humankind. That seems positive. The story challenges whether it's such a good thing. Mari rebels against being wonderful (hence the title) - is this the right thing to do?
This is a little deeper than the simple, happy and "wonderful" cover. It's a good theme but the execution is pretty easy and not that deep. The ideas such as wonderfulness and also diversity are far more deep than the book takes it.
For instance, is thinking about oneself always wrong? Sometimes we need a bit more nuance to this. I felt it was a good theme and the story discussed it but didn't offer situations which had enough stakes for it to be a very compelling debate. However it was a great topic to bring up.
The world is filled with women - or those who identify with women. This is a book which includes themes of gender identity and same-sex relationships. Mari has two mothers, as well as Rei, Mari's friend, who is a boy who identifies as a girl. This isn't a theme that is explored much nor is how an all-female world works in Mari's world, but it is probably beyond the scope of the short story which really wanted to focus on the "wonderful v unwonderful" theme. It felt like it was an attempt to represent these different sectors and also to make the story all about women (which means even more strongly making the book one that will mainly appeal to a female audience) but at a certain point it stops. The book was great at building an unusual world with some interesting social concepts (like the idea of wonderfulness) and it is a book more about ideas and worldbuilding than about action, yet at certain points it stops on the worldbuilding and there are plenty of questions that the reader might be asking.
The main action takes a while to take place. As mentioned above, this isn't a book that's as focused on action as on themes.
One of the problems with that is there is a lot of building but when the issues arise, it feels like they are pretty easily resolved, and therefore the world built is not as utilised as it could be for "something that really happens".
It's promoted as suitable for those who love Kiki's Delivery Service. Does that look like a sort of Cabbage Patch Doll Kiki with pink hair? The pose works. Anyway, full marks to the design/marketing team. The cover is delicious. It really does remind me of candy - fairy floss and peppermint. There are not a huge number of illustrations in the book, but the ones there capture the quirky, happy mood of the book. Yum!
So what is a wonderful or unwonderful witch? A wonderful witch is a witch who works for the good of others and the good of humankind. That seems positive. The story challenges whether it's such a good thing. Mari rebels against being wonderful (hence the title) - is this the right thing to do?
This is a little deeper than the simple, happy and "wonderful" cover. It's a good theme but the execution is pretty easy and not that deep. The ideas such as wonderfulness and also diversity are far more deep than the book takes it.
For instance, is thinking about oneself always wrong? Sometimes we need a bit more nuance to this. I felt it was a good theme and the story discussed it but didn't offer situations which had enough stakes for it to be a very compelling debate. However it was a great topic to bring up.
The world is filled with women - or those who identify with women. This is a book which includes themes of gender identity and same-sex relationships. Mari has two mothers, as well as Rei, Mari's friend, who is a boy who identifies as a girl. This isn't a theme that is explored much nor is how an all-female world works in Mari's world, but it is probably beyond the scope of the short story which really wanted to focus on the "wonderful v unwonderful" theme. It felt like it was an attempt to represent these different sectors and also to make the story all about women (which means even more strongly making the book one that will mainly appeal to a female audience) but at a certain point it stops. The book was great at building an unusual world with some interesting social concepts (like the idea of wonderfulness) and it is a book more about ideas and worldbuilding than about action, yet at certain points it stops on the worldbuilding and there are plenty of questions that the reader might be asking.
The main action takes a while to take place. As mentioned above, this isn't a book that's as focused on action as on themes.
One of the problems with that is there is a lot of building but when the issues arise, it feels like they are pretty easily resolved, and therefore the world built is not as utilised as it could be for "something that really happens".
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Firstly, thank you so much to Penguin for gifting me a bookseller proof copy.
Did I love an unconventional children's story featuring queer characters and a key message of authenticity? Yes, absolutely!
Did I spot some references to food being enjoyed guilt-free and women existing away from the gaze and expectations of men? Again, yes, absolutely!
It may have been the translation but, for me, there was something in the reading that wasn't as smooth as her novels for grown ups.
That said, I thoroughly wish that Mari is a resounding success for Yuzuki.
Did I love an unconventional children's story featuring queer characters and a key message of authenticity? Yes, absolutely!
Did I spot some references to food being enjoyed guilt-free and women existing away from the gaze and expectations of men? Again, yes, absolutely!
It may have been the translation but, for me, there was something in the reading that wasn't as smooth as her novels for grown ups.
That said, I thoroughly wish that Mari is a resounding success for Yuzuki.
October 25, 2026
I was hoping to love this, the cover is stunning and it was giving kikis delivery service.
.
Alas this was not it. The main character was selfish, a glutton and not particularly nice.
.
It was nice to see inclusive characters but there is a thin line between being inclusive and pushing an agenda.
.
There was no Whimsy and the book felt flat.
.
Alas this was not it. The main character was selfish, a glutton and not particularly nice.
.
It was nice to see inclusive characters but there is a thin line between being inclusive and pushing an agenda.
.
There was no Whimsy and the book felt flat.
Review of advance copy received from Publishers Weekly
A very sweet story with an important message about allowing children to grow up into who they want to be.
September 26, 2026
Review to come!
October 1, 2026
Super cute and suprisingly fascinating read
October 3, 2026
So cute, so wholesome.
October 29, 2026
Utterly boring, it’s very clear that this author doesn’t normally write for children.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews