A Welcome Note from Your Storyteller
Hi everyone! I'm Linda, your octogenarian (that means I'm in my 80s) storyteller. Won't you join me on the path to finding out "Which Witch is Which?" Throughout human history, storytellers have been the keepers of magic, wisdom, and wonder. Long before books existed, people would gather around fires or in village squares to listen to tales passed down through generations. These storytellers weren't just entertainers -- they were historians, teachers, and guardians of their culture's most important lessons. In ancient times, traveling storytellers would journey from town to town, carrying stories like precious treasures in their memories. They would share tales of heroes and adventures, teaching children about courage, kindness, and friendship along the way.
Even today, storytellers continue this ancient tradition, whether they're grandparents sharing bedtime stories, teachers reading to their classes, or authors writing books. Each storyteller adds their own special touch to the tales they share, keeping the ancient art of storytelling alive and helping young minds grow through the power of imagination.
Reading stories to and with young people has always brought me such joy. Over my forty years as a schoolteacher, I watched countless faces light up as we explored magical worlds together. Not a day goes by that I don't think about those bright eyes and eager minds they made teaching the most rewarding career I could have imagined.
Ill never forget the collective gasps when we reached surprising plot twists, or the thoughtful questions that showed how deeply my students engaged with each story. Even now in retirement, I still feel that spark of excitement when sharing a new tale.
And speaking of new tales, let me tell you about this book you're holding. Which Witch is Which? is a mystery where nothing is quite what it seems. Throughout the story, the true identities of our witchy characters remain hidden until the very end. While I've scattered plenty of clues and hints along the way for sharp-eyed readers, you'll need to follow every twist and turn to uncover the truth of this witchy riddle.
What is the problem with doppelwitches (these are witches that look alike)? Ill tell you what: you never know which witch is which. In todays world, sadly, words have become weapons. A war of words is going on every day in our lives, and it is an actual battle, one that we must win. The old nursery rhyme adage "Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will never hurt you is as archaic as the typewriter it was written on. The fact is words have power and they can harm you. They may not break your bones, but they will break your heart and spirit if you let them. As you probably already know, even good words when miscommunicated can sometimes cause misunderstandings.
I have tried in Which Witch is Which? to use every kind of words I could think of -- rhyming words, funny words, long words, tongue twisters, puns, play on words, made-up words, descriptive words, and even a twist of Shakespeare, Elvis and Dr. Suesss words of whimsical persuasion that words do matter (see if you can tell which is which). Likewise, there are many Bible verses that are applicable and come readily to mind here as the one I learned as a child: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. And another version of the Golden Rule: Treating other people with the concern and kindness you would like them to show toward you is easy to recite but sometimes so hard to follow.
It takes for granted that…
A Welcome Note from Your Storyteller
Hi everyone! I'm Linda, your octogenarian (that means I'm in my 80s) storyteller. Won't you join me on the path to finding out "Which Witch is Which?" Throughout human history, storytellers have been the keepers of magic, wisdom, and wonder. Long before books existed, people would gather around fires or in village squares to listen to tales passed down through generations. These storytellers weren't just entertainers -- they were historians, teachers, and guardians of their culture's most important lessons. In ancient times, traveling storytellers would journey from town to town, carrying stories like precious treasures in their memories. They would share tales of heroes and adventures, teaching children about courage, kindness, and friendship along the way.
Even today, storytellers continue this ancient tradition, whether they're grandparents sharing bedtime stories, teachers reading to their classes, or authors writing books. Each storyteller adds their own special touch to the tales they share, keeping the ancient art of storytelling alive and helping young minds grow through the power of imagination.
Reading stories to and with young people has always brought me such joy. Over my forty years as a schoolteacher, I watched countless faces light up as we explored magical worlds together. Not a day goes by that I don't think about those bright eyes and eager minds they made teaching the most rewarding career I could have imagined.
Ill never forget the collective gasps when we reached surprising plot twists, or the thoughtful questions that showed how deeply my students engaged with each story. Even now in retirement, I still feel that spark of excitement when sharing a new tale.
And speaking of new tales, let me tell you about this book you're holding. Which Witch is Which? is a mystery where nothing is quite what it seems. Throughout the story,…
A Welcome Note from Your Storyteller
Hi everyone! I'm Linda, your octogenarian (that means I'm in my 80s) storyteller. Won't you join me on the path to finding out "Which Witch is Which?" Throughout human history, storytellers have been the keepers of magic, wisdom, and wonder. Long before books existed, people would gather around fires or in village squares to listen to tales passed down through generations. These storytellers weren't just entertainers -- they were historians, teachers, and guardians of their clture's most important lessons. In ancient times, traveling storytellers would journey from town to town, carrying stories like precious treasures in their memories. They would share tales of heroes and adventures, teaching children about courage, kindness, and friendship along the way.
Even today, storytellers continue this ancient tradition, whether they're grandparents sharing bedtime stories, teachers reading to their classes, or authors writing books. Each storyteller adds their own special touch to the tales they share, keeping the ancient art of storytelling alive and helping young minds grow through the power of imagination.
Reading stories to and with young people has always brought me such joy. Over my forty years as a schoolteacher, I watched countless faces light up as we explored magical worlds together. Not a day goes by that I don't think about those bright eyes and eager minds they made teaching the most rewarding career I could have imagined.
Ill never forget the collective gasps when we reached surprising plot twists, or the thoughtful questions that showed how deeply my students engaged with each story. Even now in retirement, I still feel that spark of excitement when sharing a new tale.
And speaking of new tales, let me tell you about this book you're holding. Which Witch is Which? is a mystery where nothing is quite what it seems. Throughout the story, the true identities of our witchy characters remain hidden until the very end. While I've scattered plenty of clues and hints along the way for sharp-eyed readers, you'll need to follow every twist and turn to uncover the truth of this witchy riddle.
What is the problem with doppelwitches (these are witches that look alike)? Ill tell you what: you never know which witch is which. In todays world, sadly, words have become weapons. A war of words is going on every day in our lives, and it is an actual battle, one that we must win. The old nursery rhyme adage "Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will never hurt you is as archaic as the typewriter it was written on. The fact is words have power and they can harm you. They may not break your bones, but they will break your heart and spirit if you let them. As you probably already know, even good words when miscommunicated can sometimes cause misunderstandings.
I have tried in Which Witch is Which? to use every kind of words I could think of -- rhyming words, funny words, long words, tongue twisters, puns, play on words, made-up words, descriptive words, and even a twist of Shakespeare, Elvis and Dr. Suesss words of whimsical persuasion that words do matter (see if you can tell which is which). Likewise, there are many Bible verses that are applicable and come readily to mind here as the one I learned as a child: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. And another version of the Golden Rule: Treating other people with the concern and kindness you would like them to show toward you is easy to recite but sometimes so hard to follow.
It takes for granted that everyone around you, is just like you and we all know that is not the reality. We may not always agree with the choices that other people make, but we must always respect their right to do so. So, all we can do is make a sincere effort to strive to look for compassion and empathy in our own lives as well as others. Then, perhaps, watch the St. Jude commercial of the precious child with the powder pink glasses, with her arms out, running to her Daddy...where no words are needed.
So gather 'round, dear readers! Let's embark on this magical adventure together. I can't wait to share this story with you, just as I shared so many others with my beloved...
It wasnt easy, but it was enormously rewarding. To all those whove retired and said, Im going to write the Great American Novel or at least a book, well, it took me many years after retiring from teaching amazing students but here it is. I like it and I hope you do too.
The satisfaction of accomplishment in finishing my book is far outweighed, though, by the thought that this story already brought to me in writing it as well as the hope that it will bring some fresh joy to readers of all ages in the years to come. My love and thanks to all the children Ive known, whose wide-eyed wonder at story time inspired me to finally put pen to paper. Finally, to all future readers: thank you for joining me on this magical journey. May these pages spark your imagination just as so many beloved books have sparked mine throughout the years.
Which Witch is Which?
Chapter One: Which and Wh....... really knows?), there were two witches who looked exactly alike. One was named Which, and the other named Who. When I say exact, I mean exact in the total meaning of the word, as in every minor detail, from the same location of their warts to the same number of hairs on their heads, not that I have counted them of course. Even their snaggled teeth were snaggled in the same location. Their appearance was just perfect for them and I am told they liked it a lot.
Although these doppelwitches looked identical, they were not twins. Even so, I think they could have been kin because of their green skin. They delighted in playing their tricky guessing games of which witch is Which and which witch is Who, and it looked like no one had a clue. That is until Bonnie Blue moved into the little quaint house with her grandma just below the cozy cave where Which and Who lived with their Grandhag and first covens. I never really knew why Bonnie Blue came to live with her grandma and at first, she seemed a little sad but it was not long before she seemed glad.
Looking back, this was probably because Bonnie quickly made new friends and met the awfully handsome, escapable irresistible, town barn owl, who had been a long-time branch manager and knew the talk of the town. The town barn owl was quite the remarkable fellow, with heart-shaped face as white as moonlight and feathers that looked like they'd been dipped in caramel and cream. He was known throughout the village for his impeccable manners and his endless supply of interesting stories, which he'd collected over years of perching in his favorite oak tree and quietly observing everything that happened below.
Unlike most barn owls who preferred to keep to themselves, this particular owl enjoyed nothing more than a good chat, especially if it involved sharing juicy town gossip or helping a new friend solve a mystery. His silent flight and keen hearing made him the perfect gatherer of secrets, though he was very particular about which ones he shared and with whom. He had a special fondness for watching Which and Whos magical mix-ups from his cozy branch, and would often twist his head completely around (as owls do) to keep track of their zany identical antics.
This barn owls name was Hootsirmesir and he took Bonnie Blue under his wing, so to speak, and hrough his eyes, Bonnie Blue saw everything that happened in her little town. Bonnie Blue listened intently as he told her all about Which and Who and how all the local residents did not have a clue which witch was Which and which witch was Who. Hootsirmesir blinked his right, third eyelid that acted like a windshield wiper going back and forth which slyly let Bonnie Blue know that he knew which witch was Which and which witch was Who. This wink may have been lost on Bonnie, though, because she was fascinated by Hootsirmesirs third eyelid, and she hoped he would do it again. Flapping his large wings, the owl simply grinned, took flight and hooted away.
Chapter Two: A Witchy Housewarming
One day, Grandma was told by Grandhag at their seniorcise class that Which and Who wanted to welcome Bonnie Blue to the neighborhood by bringing her a house warming gift. A house warming gift is such a thoughtful way to say we are glad you are here. Hootsirmesir decided to join them just in case he was needed and just because he was curious. There was a knock, knock at the door and Bonnie Blue said, Whos there?
Its Who, who did you think it was...Boo?
Confused, Bonnie Blue replied, BooHoo?, but Who quickly responded with yet another corny joke, Boo-Hoo, dont cry little baby, said Who, Gotcha har har!
The housewarming witches wouldnt stop there, though. One of them asked, What do you call two witches who share an apartment? and the other immediately replied, BROOM-mates! and they both laughed uproariously and even Hootsirmesir grinned a beaky grin. Not to be outdone, the first witch asked, What do you call a witch who teaches magic? and her twin quickly shot back, A SPELL-ementary teacher! and again, they both laughed uncontrollably, holding their bellies and twisting about.
Groaning a bit, Hootsirmesir rolled his eyes at the corny jokes and Bonnie said, Come on in, and she took their hats and coats for it was a very cold day. After her guests were seated, Bonnie Blue introduced herself, My name is Bonnie and when she turned around from petting grandmas dog, Which said Blue? How did you know?, said Bonnie Blue. Well, Which replied, I call them like I see them, and Who said AWK-word. Bonnie knew she was in for a fun time with these witches.
Bonnie asked her guests to sit down for tea. I hope you like tea, said Bonnie Blue, and Who said, Yes! I love T, it is next to U and then comes V! Then WXY and Z, said Which, and both of them laughed. Which and Who thought they were so funny. They continued, When I was a baby my mummy told everyone I loved alphabetti soup! She was putting words in my mouth, cackled Which. Who could not stop cackling and rolled on the floor break dancing because she wanted a break. Hootsirmesir just rolled his eyes at the witches bad jokes and silly antics.
Bonnie Blue smiled politely as the witches cackled away, their laughter echoing through her cozy living room like a gaggle of geese on a sugar rush. She poured tea carefully, hoping the soothing beverage might calm the whirlwind of silliness. As she handed Hootsirmesir his cup, Who blurted out, "Oh, speaking of tea, did you hear about the witch who opened a tea shop?"
Bonnie hesitated. "No, I"
"She called it 'Spill the Tea-kettle!' Har har!" shouted Who, nearly tipping over the sugar bowl. Which doubled over, howling with laughter, and accidentally knocked her hat to the floor.
Bonnie picked it up and handed it back, muttering, I shouldve expected this when I saw your broom parked sideways in my flowerbed.
Which perked up, as though Bonnies comment had sparked a memory. Oh! Speaking of brooms! Did you hear about the witch who tried to clean her floors with her broom?
No... Bonnie answered cautiously.
She got swept off her feet! shrieked Which, and the twins cackled so loudly that the teacups rattled in their saucers.
Hootsirmesir, who was sipping his tea with impeccable owl dignity, groaned again and muttered under his breath, Do they ever stop?
Apparently not, because Who chimed in, And did you know witches never get sick on airplanes?
Bonnie, now caught in the whirlwind, couldnt resist. Why not?
Because they always have the best flying experience! Ha!
Hootsirmesir let out a long, dramatic sigh and folded his wings. Well, at least someone is enjoying themselves, he said, glancing at Bonnie, who was valiantly trying not to giggle.
At last, Bonnie Blue decided it was time to rein in the chaos. Okay, okay! Enough with the jokeswhos ready for cookies? Which and Who froze mid-cackle, their eyes twinkling with delight. Cookies? they asked in unison, as though shed just promised them a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. Yes, cookies, Bonnie said, holding up a plate. WITCH cookies? asked Who hopefully. No, Bonnie replied, just chocolate chip. Even better! they cried, diving for the plate. For a brief, glorious moment, the room was filled with nothing but the sound of munching and happy sighs. Hootsirmesir looked at Bonnie and gave her a small, approving nod. "Well played," he whispered, before grabbing a cookie for himself.
Next, Who said, Lets take a break, Do you have anymore T? Bonnie Blue was not going to let them get the best of her so she said, I can say the alphabet BACKwards in 10 seconds. Which and Who said impossible, Bonnie Blue said if I do will you tell me which witch is Which and which witch is Who. They put their wands together and said okay, if you can say the alphabet backwards in 10 seconds we will tell you which witch is Which and witch Which is Who, Bonnie thought about it for a second and then said, Sounds like a plan Finally, she thought but tried to hide how thrilled she was. Hootsirmesir used his four right toes to time her. He said, Ready, Set Toe! I mean go! Bonnie quickly turned around BACKwards and said: ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ...
Hootsirmesir who was keeping time with his right four toes said, You did it in 8 seconds! Bonnie Blue said, Oh, that is great, now tell me which witch is Which and which witch is Who. Which and Who were fuming so much that they had been tricked that the smoke detector went off. Bonnie Blue hollered over the beeping and turned around backward and said, Are you going to tell me or go back on your word?
Which and Who in ire put their wands together and then said assuredly, We said that if you could say the alphabet BACKwards in 10 seconds that we would tell you which witch was Which and which witch was Who. Bonnie replied, I know and that is what I did! Just ask Hootsirmesir. Perking up, Hootsirmesir responded, Remember, Bonnie Blue did it in 8 seconds not 10! Bonnie Blue jumped up and down shaking the whole house, but at least it stopped the smoke detector from beeping.
Bonnie Blue said you are tricksters and Which and Who said you have to be one to know one. You knew what I meant, Hootsirmesir, said Bonnie Blue. Hootsirmesir who never took sides just reminded her that you must always say what you mean and mean what you say. Just ask Horton who was standing nearby, he learned you must say what you mean and mean what you say: 100% said Horton. You give me a headache 100%, said Bonnie Blue,
Changing the subject 100% Hootsirmesir said, What about the house warming gift you brought Bonnie Blue to welcome her to the neighborhood? Which got the gift out of the broom closet where he had parked their very long broom. Who was so proud of herself said, "I picked out your gift," she said with excitement, "Grandhag was at lion dancing so she asked me to get a nice house warming gift for you." Bonnie Blue, again with reluctant acceptance said, "Thanks" and started unwrapping the gift. Bonnie Blue looked puzzled as she looked at the gift and said, "You got me a... ou got me a... heater?" Grandma who was standing nearby broke the spell, sorta speak and said, "What a nice surprise!"
"Yes, it is a surprise," said Bonnie Blue as she put her head in the wrapping paper in disbelief.
Who said, "Yes, I was just about to give up trying to find a house warming gift when I saw this on the top shelf at Gho
