In the spring of 1970, a young woman named Neva faced a life-changing secret. Resolute to hide her pregnancy,she turned to elastic girdles,but her efforts were futile. As her condition became unachievable to conceal,her family’s shame led her father to take drastic action. He brought her to a Home for Unwed Mothers in Florida, leaving her behind without a word of farewell.
At the home, Neva’s identity was erased by miss Wellwood, the strict proprietor. Renamed “Fern,” she struggled to adapt to her new reality. Despite her heartbreak, Fern found comfort in the friendships she formed with other residents. There was Rose, a determined young woman who defied her parents’ wishes to keep her baby; Zinnia, the only Black girl at the home, who became Fern’s confidante and voice of reason; and Holly, a quiet 14-year-old who rarely spoke.
One day, Holly broke her silence, revealing a horrifying truth: she had been abused by her preacher since she was eight years old. Now, he planned to adopt her baby, sending her back to a home where she would likely face further harm. Outraged, Fern, Zinnia, and rose vowed to protect Holly.Their plan? Witchcraft.
Fern had recently received a book on witchcraft from the home’s bookmobile librarian. Intrigued,she immersed herself in its pages,convinced that its secrets could help them exact revenge and save Holly. On a warm,moonlit summer evening,the girls ventured into the woods,finding a secluded clearing to cast their spell.The scene was eerie yet oddly empowering, as they channeled their anger and fear into a ritual of defiance.
“Witchcraft for Wayward Girls” is a tale that blends the occult with the struggles of adolescence, set against the backdrop of the 1970s. While it carries the edgy, witchy vibe reminiscent of V.C. Andrews’ works, it remains accessible and engaging. The story has its moments of tension, though it never veers into outright horror. Rather, it offers a mix of drama, empowerment, and a touch of the supernatural.
This book is perfect for fans of occult fiction and coming-of-age stories, notably those aged 16 and up. If you’ve been searching for a novel that combines ancient context with themes of resilience and rebellion, “Witchcraft for Wayward Girls” is a must-read.
— The Bookworm Sez
How does the cracked pomegranate in “PersephoneS Dish” symbolize the transformative journey of menopause?
“Persephone’s Dish” is a mixed-media artwork created by Kiki Piper for the 2025 exhibition titled “M is for Menopause.” The piece features a black bowl filled with whole pomegranates,one of which is cracked open to reveal a cascade of glistening seeds. This composition draws on the rich symbolism of pomegranates, which are often associated with themes of fertility, femininity, and change.
The artwork serves as an emotional reflection on the intersections of these themes, particularly in the context of the transformative journey of menopause. By incorporating the mythological figure of Persephone,who is linked to the pomegranate in Greek mythology,the piece invites viewers to contemplate the cycles of life,loss,and renewal.
For more details,you can visit the artist’s website: Persephone’s Dish – Kiki Piper.
