So You Want to Be a Wizard (Young Wizards, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Diane Duane's "So You Want to Be a Wizard" introduces the vibrant world of the Young Wizards series, following the journey of ten-year-old Christopher "Kit" Rodriguez as he stumbles into the realm of magic. The narrative unfolds during a seemingly ordinary summer, punctuated by Kit's fascination with astronomy and a persistent, unsettling feeling of being watched. This feeling culminates in a chance encounter with a mysterious woman who, far from being ordinary, is Nita, a powerful and experienced wizard.

Nita's initial interaction with Kit is disguised as a seemingly harmless game of "piggyback," yet it subtly reveals Nita's magical abilities and her intent to guide Kit down an unexpected path. Unbeknownst to Kit, he possesses latent magical abilities, a fact made apparent by a series of increasingly bizarre and magical events triggered by his thoughts and intentions. These events include inadvertently teleporting himself across vast distances, accidentally swapping bodies with a pigeon, and manipulating the weather.

The overarching plot revolves around Kit's gradual acceptance of his magical abilities and his initiation into the world of wizards. He begins his magical education, learning about the power of intention, the responsibility that comes with wielding such power, and the delicate balance between the magical and mundane worlds. His training is not confined to formal lessons; he learns through experience, facing challenges that test his understanding of magic and his courage. These lessons are often chaotic and humorous, reflecting the unpredictable nature of magic and the clumsy steps of a novice wizard.

A significant plot point involves the "trickster," a malevolent entity that manipulates people and events for its own amusement, acting as a foil to Kit's burgeoning magical talents. The trickster's actions underscore the potential dangers and ethical considerations associated with wielding magic, emphasizing the importance of responsibility and careful thought. The interaction with the trickster serves as a valuable learning experience for Kit, teaching him to discern true intentions and the need for caution.

The novel's key characters are Kit, a curious and intelligent boy reluctantly thrust into a world beyond his comprehension; Nita, the experienced and wise mentor who guides Kit's development; and the enigmatic trickster, who represents the potential for misuse of power. Other supporting characters also appear, contributing to the rich tapestry of the magical world and highlighting different aspects of wizardry.

The themes explored include the discovery of self, the responsibility that comes with power, the importance of friendship and mentorship, and the delicate balance between the mundane and magical. It is a coming-of-age story interwoven with fantastical elements, demonstrating how even the most ordinary individuals can possess extraordinary potential and the profound responsibilities that accompany it. The ending leaves Kit on the threshold of a lifelong journey of learning and adventure, promising much more magic to come.