Olive & Beatrix #1: The Not-So Itty-Bitty Spiders (A Branches Book)

The Olive & Beatrix series revolves around twin sisters who couldn't be more different. Olive is "ordinary" and passionate about science and nature, while Beatrix is a witch who loves using magic to play pranks. Along with their friend Eddie, the sisters embark on adventures that blend science and magic, often leading to humorous and unexpected situations.​

Recommendation: Ideal for early readers transitioning to chapter books, this series combines engaging stories with colorful illustrations to boost reading confidence. The interplay between science and magic offers a unique narrative that appeals to young readers interested in both fantasy and real-world concepts.​

Ideal for:

• Children aged 5–7
• Emerging independent readers​
• Fans of stories involving magic, science, and sibling relationships​

Similar Reads:

• Ivy and Bean series by Annie Barrows (features two friends with contrasting personalities engaging in various adventures)
• Zoey and Sassafras series by Asia Citro (combines science and magic as Zoey helps magical creatures with scientific approaches)
• The Princess in Black series by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale (follows a princess who secretly fights monsters)

Stylistic Features:

• Illustrated chapters that aid comprehension and maintain engagement​
• Simple, accessible language suitable for early readers​
• Humorous and relatable scenarios that emphasize problem-solving and cooperation​

Content Warnings: There are no significant content warnings for this series. The stories are lighthearted and appropriate for the target age group.​

Books in the Olive & Beatrix Series:

1. The Not-So Itty-Bitty Spiders (2015)
2. The Super-Smelly Moldy Blob (2016)