Mary and The Witch's Flower

Heads up

• Scenes of magical experiments on animals can be upsetting; creatures are shown in cages, misshapen, and in distress.
• A primary antagonist transforms into a large, unstable, and menacing gelatinous monster in the climax.
• Characters are frequently in peril, including being chased, captured, and falling from great heights.
• The plot is driven by a lie Mary tells, which has serious consequences for her and a friend.

What it models well

• True courage and self-worth come from within, not from special powers.
• It's important to stand up for those who cannot defend themselves.
• Honesty is better than pretending to be something you're not.

Talk about it after

• Mary felt ordinary and clumsy at the start. How did she find her own courage without magic?
• The headmistress wanted power and knowledge at any cost. Why was her approach wrong?
• Mary told a lie that got her into trouble. Why is it important to tell the truth, even when it's hard?