Brophy delivers a hilarious and powerful story set in an inventive world that blends our society with unique magic and important conversations. How to Succeed in Witchcraft interrogates how easy it is for those who benefit from systems of power to manipulate those in marginalized communities, especially when there is an age gap or a definite power imbalance between parties. I loved the friendship between Shay and her bestie Lex, as well as the relationship between Shay and her parents. This book also interrogates how racist pseudo-science stereotypes are harmful and directly affect the everyday lives of marginalized people. I will definitely be reading more by Aislinn Brophy.

The story was confusing and lacked intrigue. The world of alternate Shanghai seems fascinating, but it was not clear what the rules of the world were and where the story was going.