A review by driedfrogpills
Hoodoo by Ronald L. Smith
4.0
In Ronald L. Smith’s novel Hoodoo, twelve year old Hoodoo Hatcher’s family has a history of practicing hoodoo or folk magic, but despite his name Hoodoo can’t cast a single spell. His grandmother Mama Frances tells him that his heart-shaped birthmark under his eye is a sign he’s marked for magic and his ability to conjure will come in time, but Hoodoo’s time is rapidly running out. A mysterious and malevolent Stranger has appeared in town and he’s stalking Hoodoo. Hoodoo has to discover the truth about his family’s past and find a way to conjure before the Stranger destroys Hoodoo and everyone he loves.
Part coming-of-age story, part suspenseful thriller, almost entirely Southern Gothic, Hoodoo is creepy and mysterious, perfect for anyone who enjoys the supernatural. Even though the story is set in 1930s Alabama during Jim Crow, Hoodoo’s world is practically a character in its own right - a self-contained and self-sustaining society with its own secrets and powers. Hoodoo himself is a likeable and relatable narrator, struggling not just with supernatural forces but also with bullies and his first crush.
This book definitely lends well to being read aloud, because Smith's writing feels like a verbal narrative. I almost just want the book to be available as an audio book because of it. In all honesty the ending felt a little rushed or weak, but overall Hoodoo is enjoyable and spooky. Definitely a book I will recommend to anyone, because there's a lot to enjoy in the book.
Also, do not read while hungry because you will have an even worse craving for food. Particularly catfish. Oh my god did I crave catfish after reading this.
Part coming-of-age story, part suspenseful thriller, almost entirely Southern Gothic, Hoodoo is creepy and mysterious, perfect for anyone who enjoys the supernatural. Even though the story is set in 1930s Alabama during Jim Crow, Hoodoo’s world is practically a character in its own right - a self-contained and self-sustaining society with its own secrets and powers. Hoodoo himself is a likeable and relatable narrator, struggling not just with supernatural forces but also with bullies and his first crush.
This book definitely lends well to being read aloud, because Smith's writing feels like a verbal narrative. I almost just want the book to be available as an audio book because of it. In all honesty the ending felt a little rushed or weak, but overall Hoodoo is enjoyable and spooky. Definitely a book I will recommend to anyone, because there's a lot to enjoy in the book.
Also, do not read while hungry because you will have an even worse craving for food. Particularly catfish. Oh my god did I crave catfish after reading this.