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Parents' Guide to

Hoodoo

By Michael Berry, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 10+

Creepy chills galore in Southern supernatural thriller.

Book Ronald L. Smith Fantasy 2015
Hoodoo Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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What's the Story?

Twelve-year-old HOODOO Hatcher is an orphan who lives with his grandmother in rural 1930s Alabama. The rest of his family can perform folk magic -- known as "hoodoo" -- but despite his name, Hoodoo lacks the ability to cast a simple spell. When the mysterious, evil-minded Stranger comes to town looking for him, Hoodoo has to find a way to fight back without jeopardizing the safety of his loved ones.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

A vividly rendered setting, a deep background in Southern tall tales and folklore, and a likable reluctant hero of a protagonist distinguish this creepy supernatural thriller. Author Ronald L. Smith hits the middle-grade sweet spot with a gripping historical tale, providing plenty of suspense without overindulging in gore. Readers are likely to be captivated by Hoodoo's first-person voice and will root for him as he struggles to define his identity while facing off against a nemesis schooled in the arts of black magic.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about why stories about the supernatural are popular in a wide variety of media. Why do people tell tales about deals with the devil?

  • Should you keep secrets from your close family members, even if you think you're protecting them?

  • Why is it important to be aware of your family history? What can you learn from the lives of your ancestors?

Book Details

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