Some stories make us smile, some make us think, and a few do both at once. John McIntyre’s How Witches Get Their Broomsticks: The Gathering belongs firmly in that rare third group. It is a story full of laughter, adventure, and heart, following Val Witch, her talking cat, Magnificent, and her excitable broomstick, Rodney, through one mishap after another. Beneath the humour and flying chaos, the book hides gentle lessons about life, lessons that both children and adults can take to heart. Here are five of the most magical ones.
- Teamwork Makes Every Flight Smoother
Val’s adventures remind readers that no one truly succeeds alone. Whether it’s convincing her stubborn broomstick to fly straight or coaxing her cat to join a risky journey, she learns that teamwork requires patience and trust. Children will enjoy the funny exchanges between Val, Magnificent, and Rodney. Still, adults will see a deeper truth: the best things happen when everyone works together, even if they grumble along the way.
- Resilience Comes with a Few Crashes
In How Witches Get Their Broomsticks, Val’s inventions rarely go to plan. Broomsticks misbehave, spells misfire, and cats refuse to cooperate. Yet Val never gives up. Each mistake becomes part of her learning, showing that resilience is built one tumble at a time. For young readers, it’s a reassuring message that failure is not final. For adults, it’s a gentle reminder that progress often comes with a few bruises and a good laugh.
- Laughter Can Be the Best Kind of Magic
McIntyre’s storytelling sparkles with humour that crosses generations. Children giggle at Magnificent’s dramatic complaints and Rodney’s wild flying, while parents smile at the witty, down-to-earth tone that feels so true to family life. Laughter in this story is more than entertainment. It’s a kind of healing. It teaches readers that joy can turn frustration into hope and that a shared laugh can make any rough day a little lighter.
- Creativity Has No Rules
Val’s greatest gift is her imagination. From designing broomsticks that talk to crafting new ways of flying, her creativity shines through everything she does. Even when her ideas go wrong, she celebrates the process of trying. This lesson encourages readers to explore their own ideas without fear of imperfection. It’s a wonderful message for children learning to express themselves and for adults who may have forgotten the fun of simply being curious.
- Friendship Is the True Magic
At the heart of the story is the friendship between Val, Magnificent, Rodney, and every quirky character they meet. They argue, tease, and sometimes get on each other’s nerves, yet their loyalty never fades. It’s this warmth that gives the book its lasting charm. Friendship, McIntyre reminds us, is what keeps the magic alive when everything else seems to go wrong.
How Witches Get Their Broomsticks: The Gathering is more than a fantasy tale. It’s a reminder that life’s real magic lies in laughter, creativity, and the people who share our journey. Whether you are seven or seventy, this story will make you smile, think, and believe that even a wobbly broomstick can take you somewhere wonderful.
To enjoy these lessons wrapped in humour and heart, read How Witches Get Their Broomsticks: The Gathering by John McIntyre.
Available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1914078519/.
