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The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy, book cover

The Worst Witch Summary

by Jill Murphy

3.96 Goodreads · 18k ratingsFantasy116 pages14-min summary

Mildred Hubble, the most accident-prone witch at Miss Cackle's Academy, navigates magical mishaps and her rival Ethel.

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By BookBrief EditorialPublished February 2026How we write summaries

Synopsis

Covers the whole plot, including the ending.

Mildred Hubble, a clumsy trainee witch, starts her first year at Miss Cackle's Academy for Witches and immediately proves to be a poor student. Her spells often go wrong, causing many comical problems, like turning Ethel Hallow into a pig and crashing her broomstick. Ethel, a snobbish witch, tries to get Mildred in trouble. Mildred's clumsiness often results in detention with the strict Miss Hardbroom. During a Halloween party, Mildred accidentally turns herself and her friends invisible, ruining the event. Her biggest problem comes when Miss Cackle's evil twin sister, Agatha, tries to take over the academy by turning all the teachers and students into frogs. Mildred overhears Agatha's plan, but Miss Hardbroom dismisses her warning. Mildred bravely confronts Agatha. Using her unique magical abilities, Mildred reverses Agatha's spell, returning everyone to normal and saving the academy. Despite her earlier mistakes, Mildred is a hero and finds her place, showing that even the worst witch can succeed when it matters.
Difficulty
Easy
Pacing
Moderate
Mood
Whimsical, Humorous, Enchanting, Lighthearted
Read it if
You love charming, whimsical stories about magic schools, relatable underdog protagonists, and gentle humor.
Skip it if
You prefer complex magic systems, dark fantasy, or stories with high stakes and intense action.

The Worst Witch Plot Summary

Covers the whole plot, including the ending.

  1. Mildred's Disastrous Start at Cackle's Academy

    Mildred Hubble arrives at Miss Cackle's Academy for Witches for her first term, both excited and nervous. She is known for her messy plaits and general clumsiness. During the sorting ceremony, she is placed in the same class as Ethel Hallow, a snobbish and skilled witch. Mildred's first attempts at broomstick riding are terrible, ending with a crash landing in a tree. She struggles with basic spells and often makes mistakes, earning her the title of 'the worst witch' in the academy. Her early errors set the tone for her chaotic time at the school, much to the annoyance of her teacher, Miss Hardbroom.

  2. The Potions Class Calamity and Tabby's Arrival

    During a potions class, Mildred's spell goes wrong, causing an explosion that covers the classroom and Miss Hardbroom in a sticky, green mess. She always seems to cause trouble. Later, the first-year witches choose their black cats. Mildred is left with the only cat remaining, a scrawny, tabby cat with a white splash on its nose, whom she names Tabby. Unlike the sleek, black cats of her classmates, Tabby is as clumsy as Mildred, often tripping and failing to land on his feet. This immediately makes Mildred fond of him, as they share a similar unfortunate nature, further cementing Mildred's image as an outsider.

  3. Ethel's Prank and Mildred's Revenge

    Before the annual broomstick flying display, Ethel Hallow, annoyed by Mildred's incompetence and her friendship with Maud Spellbody, plays a trick. She casts a spell on Mildred's broomstick, making it malfunction. During the display, Mildred's broomstick goes out of control, flying wildly and crashing into the Headmistress's viewing stand, destroying it. This public event embarrasses Mildred greatly. In anger and wanting revenge, Mildred tries to turn Ethel into a frog using a forbidden spell book. However, her spell goes wrong, and she accidentally turns herself into a frog instead, much to her dismay and Ethel's amusement.

  4. The Disappearing Act and Rescue

    After accidentally turning herself into a frog, Mildred is trapped and vulnerable. She hops away from the academy grounds and into the nearby woods. While exploring, a group of boys from a nearby school on a nature walk spots her. The boys, unaware that the frog is a witch, try to catch her. Mildred, as a frog, is scared and tries to escape. Luckily, Maud Spellbody, worried about Mildred, comes looking for her. Maud finds Mildred in trouble and rescues her from the boys, bringing her back to the academy quietly.

  5. Restoration and Miss Cackle's Discovery

    Back in their dormitory, Maud Spellbody, using her own knowledge and Mildred's spell book, reverses the transformation, turning Mildred back into her human self. Relieved but still shaken, Mildred is thankful for Maud's quick thinking. However, the events and Mildred's long absence are noticed. Miss Cackle, the Headmistress, along with Miss Hardbroom, investigates. After learning the truth about Mildred's accidental transformation and her attempt to turn Ethel into a frog, Miss Cackle is disappointed and scolds Mildred. As punishment for using forbidden magic and causing trouble, Mildred cannot participate in the upcoming Halloween celebration.

  6. Mildred's Halloween Misery

    As the Halloween celebration night arrives, Mildred is confined to her dormitory, feeling sad and alone. The sounds of fun and magic from the Great Hall reach her room, increasing her loneliness and sense of unfairness. She watches from her window as her classmates enjoy the party, feeling like an outcast. Overwhelmed by her continuous failures and punishments, Mildred considers running away from Miss Cackle's Academy. She believes she is a complete failure as a witch and will never fit in, thinking about a future without magic.

  7. The Witches' Meeting and Evil Sister

    While wandering the grounds in her sadness, Mildred overhears a secret meeting in the woods. To her surprise, she discovers that Miss Cackle has an evil twin sister named Agatha. Agatha Cackle, with a group of other sinister witches, plans to take over Miss Cackle's Academy. Agatha plans to replace Miss Cackle and turn the academy into a school for dark magic, getting rid of its current gentle practices. Mildred, initially planning to run away, now faces a serious situation and realizes she must warn Miss Cackle and the others.

  8. Mildred's Warning and Miss Hardbroom's Disbelief

    Mildred, now scared but determined, rushes back to the academy to tell Miss Cackle about Agatha's plan. She bursts into the Headmistress's study, quickly telling everything she overheard. However, her reputation for exaggeration and causing trouble works against her. Miss Hardbroom, always stern and doubtful of Mildred, immediately dismisses her story as another one of Mildred's made-up tales or an attempt to get attention. Miss Hardbroom, believing Mildred is lying, punishes her further for disturbing Miss Cackle and for being out of bed during the Halloween festivities, sending her back to her dormitory and threatening severe consequences if she continues to cause trouble.

  9. The Witches' Transformation

    Even though she is not believed, Mildred knows the danger is real. Remembering a complex transformation spell from a book she had previously struggled with, she decides to act herself. She sneaks out again and positions herself. As Agatha and her coven approach the academy, Mildred casts the spell. Instead of transforming Agatha into a single, harmless creature, Mildred accidentally creates dozens of identical Agatha Cackles. The spell multiplies Agatha repeatedly, causing chaos and confusion among the evil group, completely stopping their plans to take over the school.

  10. Agatha's Retreat and Mildred's Heroism

    The sudden appearance of many Agathas, all arguing and confused, throws the evil group into disarray. The original Agatha, along with her many copies, becomes overwhelmed by the magical chaos and the impossible situation. Unable to continue their takeover, the entire group, including all the bewildered Agathas, flees the academy grounds in a panicked retreat. Miss Cackle and Miss Hardbroom, seeing the strange sight, finally understand Mildred's warning. Mildred, who had always been the 'worst witch,' is now a hero for stopping the plot and saving the academy. She finally gets the recognition and praise she has long wanted.

Principal Figures

Mildred Hubble

Protagonist

Clumsy and kind-hearted trainee witch, always getting into trouble.

Mildred Hubble is the central character of the story, an untidy and accident-prone trainee witch at Miss Cackle's Academy. Despite her good intentions, she consistently makes mistakes with spells, crashes her broomstick, and finds herself in various predicaments. She is often teased by Ethel Hallow and frequently reprimanded by Miss Hardbroom. Mildred is characterized by her earnestness, her loyalty to her friends, and her deep desire to succeed, even when everything seems to go wrong. She struggles with self-doubt but ultimately proves her worth through bravery and quick thinking.

Relationships: Maud Spellbody (Best friend); Enid Nightshade (Friend); Ethel Hallow (Rival/Antagonist); Miss Cackle (Headmistress, supportive); Miss Hardbroom (Strict form teacher, often exasperated by Mildred)

Maud Spellbody

Supporting

Mildred's sensible, loyal best friend.

Maud Spellbody is Mildred's best friend and a steadfast companion. She is small, wears spectacles, and is generally more sensible and cautious than Mildred. Maud often tries to keep Mildred out of trouble, offering advice and support. Despite Mildred's chaotic nature, Maud remains fiercely loyal, standing by her even when others doubt her. She is intelligent and competent in her magical studies, often helping Mildred with spells and homework. Her friendship is a crucial source of comfort and stability for Mildred throughout her tumultuous first term.

Relationships: Mildred Hubble (Best friend); Enid Nightshade (Friend)

Ethel Hallow

Antagonist

Snobbish, rule-following, and mean-spirited rival to Mildred.

Ethel Hallow is the primary antagonist among the students. She is a neat, competent, and highly ambitious witch who excels in her studies and broomstick flying. Ethel is snobbish, arrogant, and takes great pleasure in Mildred's failures, often going out of her way to cause her trouble or get her into deeper scrapes. Her jealousy and disdain for Mildred drive many of the plot's conflicts, such as the broomstick sabotage. She is a 'teacher's pet,' particularly favored by Miss Hardbroom, which further fuels her superiority complex.

Relationships: Mildred Hubble (Rival/Enemy); Miss Hardbroom (Favored student)

Miss Cackle

Supporting

Kind and understanding Headmistress of the Academy.

Miss Cackle is the Headmistress of Miss Cackle's Academy for Witches. She is a kind, gentle, and benevolent leader, known for her warm smile and understanding nature. While she is firm when necessary, particularly when Mildred causes significant trouble, her primary concern is the well-being and magical education of her students. She embodies the nurturing spirit of the academy. Her trusting nature makes her vulnerable to her evil twin sister, Agatha, but she ultimately relies on her students to protect the school.

Relationships: Mildred Hubble (Student (initially exasperated by, later grateful to)); Miss Hardbroom (Colleague); Agatha Cackle (Evil twin sister)

Miss Hardbroom

Supporting

Strict and imposing form teacher, frequently frustrated by Mildred.

Miss Hardbroom is Mildred's form teacher and potions mistress, known for her tall, gaunt figure, severe expression, and strict demeanor. She rarely smiles and is easily exasperated by Mildred's constant blunders and rule-breaking. She often singles out Mildred for reprimands and punishments, believing her to be hopeless. Despite her stern exterior, she is a dedicated teacher who expects high standards from her students. She initially dismisses Mildred's warning about Agatha, highlighting her skepticism towards Mildred's credibility.

Relationships: Mildred Hubble (Student (often exasperated by)); Miss Cackle (Colleague); Ethel Hallow (Favored student)

Tabby

Supporting

Mildred's clumsy and distinctive black-and-white cat.

Tabby is Mildred's pet cat, given to her on the first day of term. Unlike the sleek, all-black cats of the other witches, Tabby is a scrawny tabby cat with a white splash on his nose. He is as clumsy and accident-prone as Mildred herself, often tripping over his own paws or failing to land gracefully. Tabby is a loyal companion to Mildred, mirroring her character and providing her with a unique pet that stands out from the others. He is a source of comfort and companionship for Mildred.

Relationships: Mildred Hubble (Pet/Companion)

Agatha Cackle

Antagonist

Miss Cackle's evil twin sister, plotting to take over the academy.

Agatha Cackle is the sinister twin sister of Miss Cackle. She is characterized by her villainous appearance and her ambition to seize control of Miss Cackle's Academy. Agatha despises the current benevolent nature of the school and plans to transform it into an institution for dark magic, expelling all the current students and teachers. She is manipulative and cunning, gathering a coven of like-minded witches to aid her in her plot. Her plans are ultimately foiled by Mildred's accidental but effective magic.

Relationships: Miss Cackle (Twin sister/Enemy)

Enid Nightshade

Supporting

Outgoing and mischievous friend of Mildred and Maud.

Enid Nightshade is another one of Mildred's friends, introduced a little later in the story. She is characterized by her outgoing personality and her mischievous nature, often encouraging Mildred to bend the rules or join in on pranks. Enid is a loyal friend, though sometimes a bad influence, and adds another dynamic to Mildred's social circle. She is generally more adventurous than Maud and provides a contrast to Maud's cautiousness.

Relationships: Mildred Hubble (Friend); Maud Spellbody (Friend)

Themes & Insights

Embracing Imperfection and Self-Acceptance

The book explores the idea that not being perfect is acceptable and that true worth comes from character, not just skill. Mildred often makes mistakes and is called 'the worst witch,' but her kindness, bravery, and heroism despite her clumsiness show that her imperfections do not define her. Her unique qualities, even her mistakes (like the multiplying spell), lead to her success, suggesting that sometimes unusual approaches work better than strict rule-following.

“She was the worst witch in the whole school. But she was also brave.”
Narrator

Friendship and Loyalty

The strong bond between Mildred and Maud is a main theme. Maud consistently supports Mildred, even when Mildred's errors cause problems or when others avoid her. This loyalty is important, as Maud helps Mildred reverse her frog transformation and offers emotional support. The theme shows the importance of having true friends who accept you, flaws and all, and who help when needed, in contrast to Ethel's hostile behavior.

“Maud, despite her usual caution, was always there for Mildred.”
Narrator

Overcoming Adversity and Finding Inner Strength

Mildred faces constant problems, from broomstick crashes to potion explosions and public embarrassment. Her initial wish to run away from the academy shows her despair. However, when faced with a real threat to the school, Mildred finds unexpected courage and determination. Despite Miss Hardbroom not believing her, she acts independently to save the academy, showing that even unlikely individuals can rise to a challenge and find their inner strength when it matters most.

“Mildred knew she couldn't give up. The academy was in danger.”
Narrator

The Nature of Good vs. Evil

The clear difference between Miss Cackle's kind academy and Agatha Cackle's evil plan highlights the theme of good versus evil. Miss Cackle represents kindness, nurturing, and positive magic, while Agatha embodies ambition, darkness, and destructive intentions. Mildred, despite her flaws, aligns with 'good' by protecting the academy's values. The story reinforces the idea that good, even when imperfect, can win over evil through unexpected ways.

“Agatha Cackle wanted to turn the school into a den of dark magic.”
Narrator

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

Foreshadowing (Mildred's Clumsiness)

Mildred's consistent blunders hint at future comedic and plot-driving mishaps.

Mildred's established clumsiness and inability to perform spells correctly from the very beginning serve as a running gag but also subtly foreshadow her eventual, accidental heroism. Her tendency to get things wrong, such as turning herself into a frog or creating multiple Agathas, sets up the expectation that her solutions will be unconventional and often unintended. This device allows her final, successful (albeit accidental) spell to feel both earned and consistent with her character, rather than a sudden shift in ability.

The 'Worst Witch' Label

A character archetype that highlights personal growth and unexpected heroism.

The recurring label of 'the worst witch' is a key plot device that establishes Mildred's initial status and provides a clear arc for her character. This label creates a low expectation that makes her eventual triumph more impactful. It also drives much of the conflict, as Mildred struggles against this perception and often confirms it with her actions. The irony of the 'worst witch' saving the day is central to the story's message about self-worth and unexpected abilities.

The Evil Twin

A classic narrative trope used to introduce an external, clear-cut antagonist.

The introduction of Agatha Cackle as Miss Cackle's evil twin sister is a classic literary device used to create a direct and unambiguous external threat. This trope immediately establishes a clear antagonist with a personal connection to the protagonist's world, raising the stakes. It provides a stark contrast between good and evil, making the conflict easy to understand for young readers. The twin aspect also allows for a visual and thematic parallel that emphasizes the choice between benevolent and dark magic.

Magical Mishaps as Plot Drivers

Incorrectly cast spells and magical blunders propel the narrative forward.

Mildred's frequent magical mishaps are not just comedic relief; they are essential plot drivers. Her potion explosion, the sabotaged broomstick, and especially her accidental self-transformation into a frog directly lead to significant plot points and character development. Crucially, her final, 'wrong' transformation spell (creating multiple Agathas) is what ultimately saves the academy. This device emphasizes that sometimes, mistakes can lead to unexpected and positive outcomes, subverting the idea that magic must always be perfect.

The Worst Witch Quotes

“I'm not a very good witch, I'm afraid.”
Mildred Hubble's self-deprecating admission early in the story.
“It's not the end of the world, you know.”
Miss Cackle comforting Mildred after a mishap.
“A little kindness goes a long way.”
Miss Hardbroom's rare moment of softer advice.
“Oh, broomsticks!”
Mildred's exasperated exclamation during a flying lesson.
“We must all stick together, especially in times of trouble.”
Miss Cackle addressing the school during a crisis.
“It's not what you do, it's how you do it.”
Miss Hardbroom's strict teaching philosophy.
“I'll never get the hang of this!”
Mildred struggling with a spell or task.
“Magic is not just about waving a wand.”
A lesson emphasizing the deeper aspects of witchcraft.
“Sometimes the best magic is the simplest.”
Reflection on Mildred's unconventional successes.
“Don't worry, we'll sort it out.”
Mildred's friend Maud offering support.
“Every witch has her own way.”
Acknowledging individuality in magical practice.
“It's all in the wrist, dear.”
Advice given during a spell-casting lesson.
“The worst witch can sometimes be the best.”
Implied theme of Mildred's hidden strengths.

Quiz

10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.

  1. Question 1

    What is the name of the academy where Mildred Hubble is training to become a witch?

    1. Miss Hardbroom's Academy
    2. Miss Cackle's Academy
    3. Ethel Hallow's School
    4. Witchingwood Academy
    Show answer

    B. Miss Cackle's Academy The story is set at Miss Cackle's Academy, a school for young witches where Mildred struggles with her magical training.

  2. Question 2

    Why does Mildred turn Ethel into her enemy?

    1. Mildred accidentally ruins Ethel's favorite spellbook
    2. Mildred turns Ethel into a pig during a spell gone wrong
    3. Mildred turns Ethel into her deadly enemy through a specific incident
    4. Ethel steals Mildred's broomstick
    Show answer

    C. Mildred turns Ethel into her deadly enemy through a specific incident The book summary states that Mildred 'turns Ethel, the teacher's pet, into her deadly enemy,' indicating a specific event that causes their rivalry, though the exact details are not specified in the provided summary.

  3. Question 3

    What is one of Mildred's main struggles at the academy?

    1. She can't remember any spells
    2. She can't ride a broomstick without crashing it
    3. She refuses to practice magic
    4. She is afraid of all the teachers
    Show answer

    B. She can't ride a broomstick without crashing it The summary explicitly mentions that Mildred 'can't even ride a broomstick without crashing it,' highlighting her clumsiness and difficulties with basic witch skills.

  4. Question 4

    How is Ethel described in relation to the teachers?

    1. As a troublemaker
    2. As the teacher's pet
    3. As a lazy student
    4. As a mentor to Mildred
    Show answer

    B. As the teacher's pet Ethel is labeled 'the teacher's pet' in the summary, suggesting she is favored by the teachers and likely excels compared to Mildred.

  5. Question 5

    What genre best describes 'The Worst Witch'?

    1. Science Fiction
    2. Historical Fiction
    3. Fantasy
    4. Mystery
    Show answer

    C. Fantasy The book is categorized as Fantasy, along with Children's and Young Adult, due to its magical setting involving witches, spells, and broomsticks.

  6. Question 6

    Which of the following is a key theme suggested by Mildred's experiences?

    1. The importance of perfection in magic
    2. Overcoming clumsiness and mistakes
    3. The dangers of using dark magic
    4. The value of hiding one's weaknesses
    Show answer

    B. Overcoming clumsiness and mistakes Mildred's constant mess-ups and struggles, such as with spells and broomsticks, point to themes of perseverance and dealing with imperfection in a competitive environment.

  7. Question 7

    What does the phrase 'making an awful mess of it' imply about Mildred's training?

    1. She is intentionally sabotaging her lessons
    2. She is struggling and failing frequently
    3. She is bored and uninterested in witchcraft
    4. She is secretly very talented
    Show answer

    B. She is struggling and failing frequently This phrase from the summary indicates that Mildred is having a hard time and not performing well, as supported by examples like getting spells wrong and crashing broomsticks.

  8. Question 8

    Based on the summary, what might be a consequence of Mildred's rivalry with Ethel?

    1. Mildred gets expelled from the academy
    2. It leads to magical mishaps or conflicts
    3. Ethel helps Mildred improve her skills
    4. The teachers punish both students equally
    Show answer

    B. It leads to magical mishaps or conflicts Given Mildred's tendency for accidents and Ethel's status as a rival, their enmity likely escalates into magical troubles or plot-driving conflicts in the story.

  9. Question 9

    Why might Mildred be considered 'The Worst Witch'?

    1. She has no magical ability at all
    2. She consistently underperforms in witch training
    3. She uses her magic for evil purposes
    4. She is the youngest student at the academy
    Show answer

    B. She consistently underperforms in witch training The title reflects Mildred's struggles, such as messing up spells and broomstick riding, making her seem like the least competent witch in training at the academy.

  10. Question 10

    What aspect of the book suggests it is aimed at a young audience?

    1. Complex political subplots
    2. Themes of adult romance
    3. Its focus on school life and relatable mishaps
    4. Graphic descriptions of magic battles
    Show answer

    C. Its focus on school life and relatable mishaps The book is categorized as Children's and Young Adult, with elements like a school setting, clumsy protagonist, and lighthearted conflicts that appeal to younger readers.

The Worst Witch FAQ

What is 'The Worst Witch' about?

The book follows Mildred Hubble, a clumsy and accident-prone trainee witch at Miss Cackle's Academy for Witches, who struggles with basic magic like spells and broomstick riding. Her life becomes more complicated when she accidentally turns Ethel Hallow, the teacher's pet, into her enemy, leading to a series of magical mishaps and conflicts.

Why should I read 'The Worst Witch'?

It's a charming, humorous children's fantasy that celebrates perseverance and friendship despite imperfections, with relatable themes of school life and fitting in. The lighthearted tone and Mildred's endearing clumsiness make it an engaging read for young audiences.

What is the background/setting of 'The Worst Witch'?

The story is set at Miss Cackle's Academy for Witches, a boarding school for young witches, where students learn magic, potions, and broomstick flying in a whimsical, slightly old-fashioned environment reminiscent of traditional British schools.

What are the most memorable quotes?

Notable quotes include Mildred's self-deprecating thoughts like 'I'm the worst witch in the school' and Miss Hardbroom's stern admonishments, such as 'A witch who cannot control her broom is a danger to herself and others,' highlighting the book's themes of struggle and discipline.

What writing style does the author use?

Jill Murphy employs a simple, accessible narrative with gentle humor and vivid descriptions, making it easy for young readers to follow. The tone is warm and engaging, balancing Mildred's mishaps with moments of kindness and growth.

What minor details add significant meaning?

Small details like Mildred's untidy uniform and her pet cat Tabby's loyalty subtly emphasize her outsider status and genuine heart, contrasting with Ethel's perfectionism and highlighting themes of authenticity over appearances.

What are some subtle foreshadowing moments?

Early scenes of Mildred struggling with basic spells and broomstick crashes foreshadow her eventual magical blunders, such as when she accidentally turns Ethel into a pig, setting up the central conflict and her need to prove herself.

What unexpected character connections exist?

Despite their rivalry, Mildred and Ethel are both students under the strict Miss Hardbroom, whose favoritism towards Ethel and frustration with Mildred create a dynamic that mirrors real-school hierarchies and pressures.

What are unspoken character motivations?

Ethel's desire to be the best witch stems from a need for approval and status, while Mildred's persistence, despite her failures, is driven by a deep-seated hope to belong and succeed on her own terms, not just to please others.

What psychological complexities do characters exhibit?

Mildred shows resilience and self-doubt, grappling with impostor syndrome in a competitive environment, whereas Ethel displays narcissistic traits, using her skills to bully others, reflecting how insecurity can manifest as arrogance.

What are the major emotional turning points?

Key moments include Mildred's humiliation after turning Ethel into a pig, which deepens their feud, and later scenes where she receives unexpected support from friends like Maud, boosting her confidence and shifting the emotional tone.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Mildred's friendship with Maud strengthens through shared struggles, while her rivalry with Ethel escalates from petty squabbles to magical sabotage, ultimately forcing Mildred to confront her fears and stand up for herself.

Which parts remain ambiguous or open-ended?

The resolution of Mildred and Ethel's rivalry is left somewhat open, with no clear reconciliation, allowing readers to ponder whether their conflict will continue or if future books might explore growth and forgiveness.

What are controversial scenes or decisions?

Some readers debate Mildred's decision to use magic impulsively, such as turning Ethel into a pig, as it raises questions about responsibility and the ethics of magic, even in a lighthearted context.

'The Worst Witch' ending explained: how it ends & what it means

The book ends with Mildred surviving her mishaps and gaining a bit of confidence, though she remains 'the worst witch.' This suggests that success isn't about perfection but perseverance, and that kindness and effort matter more than innate talent.

About the author

Jill Murphy

Jill Murphy

Jill Murphy was a British author and illustrator of children's books. First published in 1974, she was best known for the Worst Witch novels and Large Family picture books, with sales amounting to several millions. Her books have also been adapted for stage and television. She has been called "one of the most engaging writers and illustrators for children in the land".

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