There is a special kind of storytelling that feels both familiar and magical, where laughter and warmth coexist with adventure and heart. That is the charm of John McIntyre’s How Witches Get Their Broomsticks: The Gathering. Set against a backdrop rich with Scottish spirit, it captures the humour, imagination, and heart that make Scotland’s storytelling traditions so loved. McIntyre brings these qualities to life through his characters, their wit, and the gentle lessons hidden in their whimsical world.
At the centre of the story is Val Witch, an inventive and kind-hearted witch living in the Scottish village of Fortingall. Alongside her talking cat, Magnificent, and her loyal but unpredictable broomstick, Rodney, Val embarks on adventures that are as funny as they are touching. Whether it’s a flying lesson gone wrong or a journey to the Great Witches’ Gathering on the Isle of Skye, McIntyre turns simple moments into scenes filled with laughter and warmth. Children will enjoy the comic mishaps, while adults will appreciate the sharp wit and quiet wisdom that echo the warmth of traditional Scottish tales.
McIntyre’s humour is very much part of his homeland. It is playful, dry, and grounded in everyday life. Even the magical creatures of his world seem like old friends you might meet in a small Scottish village. The grumpy but lovable Magnificent, with his sarcastic remarks and constant search for comfort, could easily be a relative who complains while secretly caring deeply. This kind of humour, full of affection and familiarity, is what makes the book feel so genuine. It carries the rhythm of Scottish speech, the light teasing, and the good-hearted fun that make the culture’s stories so enjoyable to share aloud.
Beyond the humour, McIntyre’s writing reflects a deep appreciation for friendship, resilience, and community, values that have long shaped Scottish storytelling. Just as old folktales often remind listeners of kindness and courage, How Witches Get Their Broomsticks: The Gathering celebrates teamwork and perseverance. When Val faces problems, she relies not on perfect magic but on the help of her friends and her ability to laugh through her troubles. These moments give the story both heart and purpose, reminding readers that even small acts of kindness can be powerful.
Scotland’s natural beauty also flows through McIntyre’s work. The misty forests, wide skies, and coastal landscapes create a world that feels alive with both magic and memory. The setting of the Isle of Skye, where the Great Witches’ Gathering takes place, captures the mystery of the Highlands, blending folklore with imagination. This connection between land and story gives the book a sense of belonging, a reminder that every great tale begins somewhere close to home.
How Witches Get Their Broomsticks: The Gathering is more than a children’s story. It is a celebration of Scottish humour, imagination, and heart. Through Val Witch and her unlikely companions, John McIntyre invites readers of all ages to laugh, dream, and believe in a little everyday magic.
To experience this Scottish charm for yourself, read How Witches Get Their Broomsticks: The Gatheringand enjoy the warmth of a story told with love, laughter, and a touch of home-grown wonder.
Get your copies from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1914078519/.
