Color by Braden Lamb. This first installment in the graphic-novel adaptations of the Baby-Sitters Club spinoff series introduces Karen and her large blended family (including stepsister and BSC president Kristy), and Karen's humorously active imagination--she's convinced her neighbor is a witch. Colorful, spacious panels and easily interpreted facial expressions make this a good choice for newly independent readers, whether or not they've encountered the BSC universe before. (c) Copyright 2021. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Gr 2--5--Every other weekend, Karen and her brother Andrew spend time with their dad and stepfamily. Karen suspects that her dad's next door neighbor, Mrs. Porter, is actually a witch named Morbidda Destiny. Although there is a strict no-spying rule, Karen and her best friend Hannie set out to prove that Mrs. Porter is a witch and catch her in the act of hosting a witch meeting. This graphic novel adaptation of the first installment in the "Baby Sitters Little Sister" series follows closely in the vein of the comics remakes of the "Babysitters Club" and is sure to be just as popular. The full-color illustrations are bright and detailed, and the story is fast paced and relatable. The "Little Sister" series is a bit simpler and more accessible to those who are not quite ready for the "Babysitters Club" series. It will also likely entice adults who have fond memories of the original books. VERDICT This reimagining of a beloved series will appeal to readers young and old and will attract fans of the highly popular "Babysitters Club" graphic novels as well.--Ellen Conlin, Naperville Public Library, IL

There is a witch living next door to Karen's dad's house, she's sure of it. Despite the house rule against spying, Karen and her beleaguered friend Hannie surveil Mrs. Porter's house, searching for evidence that will confirm Karen's belief in Mrs. Porter's sinister plans for the neighborhood. Ultimately, Karen isn't really punished for her actions and she's not terribly sorry for them either, setting the story up for a sequel. Following the plot of the prose version beat for beat, this adaptation introduces the Baby-Sitters Club universe as seen by one of the kids being babysat. The artwork and colors in this spin-off are similar to those found in the original series, but chibi-fied (i.e., the characters are more rounded and have cartoonishly large eyes) to make the characters look younger, cuter, and more innocent. Shorter in length and using vocabulary that is more manageable for less experienced readers, this book offers younger readers a doorway into an extremely popular franchise.--Eva Volin Copyright 2020 Booklist