Boo's bewitching debut celebrates found family via a fantastical mystery centering a teenage witch's troubling disappearance. Noreen, a student at the Younwity Hidden Institute of Witchcraft, was last seen entering the demon-infested Untamed Woods that border the school days before Samhain, when the border between the living and the dead is weakest. When she's declared missing, white, freckled Abby recruits professor's daughter Goldie, who is Black; closest friend Enver, who is white; and Asian-cued roommate Violet, in her search for clues about Noreen's disappearance. But their inquiry leads to consistent dead ends, and classmates continue preparing for the institute's yearly Samhain celebration as if nothing has changed, tanking group morale. Though they encourage Abby to let the administration handle the case, she refuses to give up, especially when further investigation uncovers ancient and sinister school secrets. Atmospheric lighting renders hazy sunsets and mystical night skies, autumnal color palettes evoke an appropriately witchy aesthetic, and expert character design portrays a racially diverse cast featuring varied body types. Boo capably juggles the mystery's intrigue with interpersonal drama, such as previously antagonistic relationships revealing hidden romantic yearning, in this eerie mystery that sits well within the magic school canon. Ages 14--up. Agent: Britt Siess, Britt Siess Creative Management. (Aug.)■

Foundling witch Abigail risks everything to find her missing friend. Legend at the Younwity Hidden Institute of Witchcraft says that 100 years ago, a monstrous demon took a student who had entered the Untamed Woods. Now Noreen, one of Abby's dearest friends, is believed to be missing in these same forbidden woods. With preparations for the Samhain festivities underway and the Coven supposedly looking for her, most students are quick to dismiss Noreen's disappearance save for Abby and a few of her close friends. After breaking curfew and doing unsupervised magic, the young witches get into trouble, prompting her friends to give up searching, but Abby is convinced Noreen can be saved and persists in her search. Her investigation reveals secrets and truths about the century-old legend that might help her find Noreen. Spooky, mysterious, and also full of heart, this graphic novel is an enchanting story of friendship and found family. Each witch has a familiar--an animal companion with its own personality--that adds to the depth and charm of the story. Seymour, Abby's familiar, is a Sphynx cat who suffers from anxiety. The luminous, full-color illustrations are striking and vibrant, adding to the magical, mystical feel. Abby presents as White, with pale, freckled skin and brown hair; her classmates and teachers are diverse in race as well as gender identity and sexual orientation. An exciting fantasy full of mystery and witchcraft. (Graphic fantasy. 13-18) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.