The Beginner's Guide to Being a Wizard by Negley, Keith

Attention, aspiring wizards! Grab your wands, capes, and geckos and dive into this hilarious and clever how-to guide by award-winning author-illustrator Keith Negley.

So you want to become a wizard? Excellent choice.

Magic, like everything in life, takes practice and patience. It's important to know that you will make mistakes. For example, you might accidentally turn your friends into fish, or yourself into a turnip. This is all normal. Remember, magic is more about wondering than knowing. Also explosions.

This handbook covers everything from essential materials--a stick (not too pokey); a cloak (a towel works fine); a hiding place; and snacks--to spell casting, duels, and did we mention snacks?

In turns hilarious and thoughtful, this how-to guide sparkles with just as much wisdom as it does magic.

"Wizard enthusiasts of all ages will be tickled. Pure magic for the wizard-curious." - Kirkus Reviews

Author: Keith Negley
Publisher: Flamingo Books
Published: 08/25/2026
Pages: 40
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.90lbs
Size: 11.10h x 8.60w x 0.50d
ISBN: 9798217318568
Audience: Ages 4-8

Review Citation(s):
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 07/01/2026
Kirkus Reviews 07/01/2026

About the Author
Keith Negley is a Kate Greenaway-nominated author-illustrator of books for children--and a sometimes professor. He is a frequent contributor to The New York Times and The New Yorker in addition to other national publications. Keith received his BFA from the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, and his MFA from The School of Visual Arts in New York City. He lives in Washington with his family and cat, Cake Batter. To learn more about Keith, please visit www.keithnegley.com.