A review by rubybereading
Hoodoo by Ronald L. Smith

challenging dark emotional sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

I don't really know what to say about this because I'm actually kind of torn. On the one hand, I don't think it's that appropriate for a "middle-grade" book. I just found out there were no content warnings, & the content is pretty intense. Though the MC is 12 & it's written in a childish voice, the themes are heavy & can be polarizing, especially with regard to your religious beliefs. Unless you believe children should be able to explore art/literature in whichever way the wind blows them, this might not be the best book for kids. HOWEVER (!!!), as an adult, I really enjoyed it. It took about 1/4 of the book for it to really pick up for me but, once it did, was hooked. I was on the edge of my seat & really rooting for Hoodoo. And I was so proud of him by the end. One small petty thing was annoying though. Every time he explained the meaning of something, he ended it with "if you didn't know". It's clearly supposed to be his little catchphrase or whatever, but the writer was so heavy handed with it. Within just a few chapters, was rolling my eyes every time I read it. Like damn we get it! It could've even been a 4 without all that. I know it's petty, but still. I was annoyed.