Room on the Broom
by Julia Donaldson, with illustrations by Axel Scheffler, is an enchanting story about a kind-hearted witch who travels on her broomstick with a variety of unexpected passengers. The story’s strength lies in its rhythmic, rhyming text, making it a joy to read aloud and perfect for young listeners. Donaldson’s verse flows beautifully, keeping kids engaged with its playful language and repetition.
The plot revolves around a witch who, despite losing her hat, bow, and wand during her flight, picks up helpful new friends—a cat, dog, bird, and frog—along the way. When the broom breaks under the weight of all the passengers, the witch finds herself in danger, but her new friends come to the rescue, proving that teamwork and kindness can overcome even the scariest of dragons.
Donaldson’s knack for humor and warmth is evident throughout the story, and the characters—especially the friendly witch—are immediately likable. What makes this book truly shine, however, is Scheffler’s lively illustrations. His artwork is bright, detailed, and full of movement, perfectly complementing the pace and tone of the story. Every page is filled with dynamic expressions and whimsical scenery that invites readers to linger and explore.
One of the standout aspects of Room on the Broom is its celebration of inclusivity and the idea that there’s always “room” for more. The witch’s willingness to share her broomstick with a growing group of friends models generosity and open-mindedness, showing children the value of embracing others, even if they’re different.
In the end, Room on the Broom is a story about friendship, teamwork, and the rewards of being kind. It’s a beautifully crafted tale, perfect for reading at bedtime or any time of day. The combination of Donaldson’s rhythmic storytelling and Scheffler’s expressive illustrations makes this book a true classic—one that children will want to revisit again and again.
Questions to ask while reading:
- What motivated the witch to allow the animals to join her on the broom? If you were in her place, would you have invited the animals to ride along?
- What reasons might the animals have had for assisting the witch in finding her lost items?
- Was teamwork necessary for the animals to rescue the witch, or could each animal have succeeded alone?
Room on the Broom on Amazon