A review by katelindsay
Root Magic by Eden Royce

funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
Root Magic has been all over the bookish Youtube community. As I’m not a big reader of middle grade books, I didn’t feel the inclination to read this until my library put it on a list of recommended books. That was the catalyst I needed to pick up this book and I’m so glad I did. 
 
Set in 1960’s South Carolina, Root Magic tells the story of a Gullah-Geechee family dealing with loss, racism, and generational folk magic. After the death of their grandmother, twins Jezebel and Jay’s uncle agrees to teach them rootwork, an African American folk magic. Being a family of rootworkers makes the Turners a target for harassment from the police and members of the community. Even other African Americans are prejudiced against rootworkers; Jezebel is frequently bullied by girls in her class. 
 
Eden Royce wrote a magical novel of a young girl growing up and realizing she is more powerful than she knew. Faced with evil both human and supernatural, Jezebel needs more than powers and potions to protect herself and her family. She needs to use her innate abilities. A wonderful fantasy novel, I’d recommend this novel for both children and adults.
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