Hoodoo
Book description
Twelve year old Hoodoo Hatcher was born into a family with a rich tradition of practicing folk magic - hoodoo, as most people call it. But even though his name is Hoodoo, he can't seem to cast a simple spell. Then a mysterious man called the Stranger comes to town,…
Why read it?
3 authors picked Hoodoo as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
A Southern Gothic historical horror, Hoodoo is a story of fair and foul folk magic in 1930s Alabama. Hoodoo Hatcher is the only person in his family without a knack for the hoodoo that gave him his name—and that’s a problem, because the evil Stranger is coming for him, and he’ll need all the courage and smarts he can summon to keep himself and his family safe. To me, the greatest joy of this wonderful book is Hoodoo’s distinctive, humorous voice, and Ron Butler brings him perfectly to life in his performance; it’s not easy for an adult to make…
From Rachel's list on spooky middle grade audio for family car trips.
From the first page of Hoodoo I was hooked. There’s mystery, danger, secrets, magic, and an abundance of eerie moments. The spooky setting is so vivid, and you can’t help but become attached to the wonderfully described characters. I love stories with strong friendships and everyday kids who overcome internal and external obstacles to help and save others. Not all heroes have superpowers, and while we may all have issues, insecurities, and fears, we also each have gifts that can be used in everyday life to make a difference.
From Daka's list on dealing with grief, loss, and fear.
This is one of those books that kept me up way past my bedtime. It’s a delicious combination of folk magic, intrigue, and African-American culture in Depression-Era Alabama that grabbed me from page one. The narrator and hero, Hoodoo Hatcher, is one of my all-time favorite middle-grade protagonists, and Smith’s amazingly descriptive writing definitely transported me through time and space to a place I never wanted to leave.
From Rob's list on middle-grade readers will love.
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