Root Magic is a novel written by Eden Royce. It is a captivating story set in the Gullah community of South Carolina, where magic and tradition are deeply ingrained in everyday life. The main protagonist, Jezebel Turner, is a young girl who comes from a long line of rootworkers. She is eager to learn about her family's legacy and inherit their knowledge of root magic. Throughout the book, Jezebel explores her roots and discovers the power that lies within her. One of the main themes in Root Magic is the importance of heritage and the connection to one's ancestors.
-Booklist (starred review)
Because when evil both natural and supernatural comes to show itself in town, it s going to take every bit of the magic she has inside her to see her through. A poignant, necessary entry into the children s literary canon, Root Magic brings to life the history and culture of Gullah people while highlighting the timeless plight of Black Americans.
One of the main themes in Root Magic is the importance of heritage and the connection to one's ancestors. The Gullah community has a rich African heritage that is intertwined with their beliefs and practices. Jezebel learns to honor and respect her ancestors through rituals and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Kids
If you ask Del Baker, she has all the family she needs. Sure, her mom passed away when she was young, her dad is often away on deployment, and she’s had to move so much that she’s never had close friends. But she has always had her grandmother—and for Del, that’s enough. Besides, having no roots just makes it that much easier when you have to move again.
All of that changes, though, when Gramma falls ill and Del is sent to stay with her great-grandmother. Del has never even heard of Nana Rose, and she has no interest in spending the summer with a stranger on an unbearably hot island off the South Carolina coast. And when Nana Rose starts talking about their family’s traditions—something called “conjure magic”—Del knows she’s in for a weird summer.
That is, until the magic turns out to be real.
Soon, Del is surrounded by teacher witches, kids with strange abilities, ghosts, and creatures who can speak. Why didn’t Gramma ever tell her about her family, this island, this magic? As Del sets out to find answers and to find her place in a world she never knew existed, she also discovers a shadowy presence on the island—and comes to believe it all might be connected.
Praise for CONJURE ISLAND:
“Following her acclaimed debut, Root Magic (2021), Royce offers readers another strong fantasy steeped in Gullah culture. Del is a fully realized protagonist who convincingly changes from a wary observer to a young person embracing her heritage.”
-Kirkus (starred review)
“Royce has created a unique world that celebrates the magic and folklore of the African diaspora.”
-Booklist
“This heartfelt fantastical novel discusses resonant topics such as belonging, friendship, and grief. Royce’s narrative is filled with magic, but the heart of the story lies in its connection to Southern conjure and Gullah Geechee culture.”
-The Horn Book
ROOT MAGIC available now!
Debut author Eden Royce arrives with a wondrous story of love, bravery, friendship, and family, filled to the brim with magic great and small.
It’s 1963, and things are changing for Jezebel Turner. Her beloved grandmother has just passed away. The local police deputy won’t stop harassing her family. With school integration arriving in South Carolina, Jez and her twin brother, Jay, are about to begin the school year with a bunch of new kids. But the biggest change comes when Jez and Jay turn eleven— and their uncle, Doc, tells them he’s going to train them in rootwork.
Jez and Jay have always been fascinated by the African American folk magic that has been the legacy of their family for generations—especially the curious potions and powders Doc and Gran would make for the people on their island. But Jez soon finds out that her family’s true power goes far beyond small charms and elixirs…and not a moment too soon. Because when evil both natural and supernatural comes to show itself in town, it’s going to take every bit of the magic she has inside her to see her through.
Praise for ROOT MAGIC:
“A poignant, necessary entry into the children’s literary canon, Root Magic brings to life the history and culture of Gullah people while highlighting the timeless plight of Black Americans. Add in a fun, magical adventure and you get everything I want in a book!”
-Justina Ireland, New York Times bestselling author of Dread Nation
“A must-read, sure to leave readers wishing for more after the final page.”
-Booklist (starred review)
“This richly detailed narrative offers elements of magical realism against a backdrop of social change, presenting a convincing family story and exploring community differences. A strong coming-of-age story grounded in a vibrant cultural heritage.”
-Kirkus (starred review)
“1960s South Carolina comes to life in this middle grade debut filled with magic and heart.”
-Publishers Weekly
“A terrific, wondrous glimpse of Gullah Geechee culture, richly detailed and inviting. Blending familial and ancestral lore with folk magic, Royce’s novel set in a racist South, resonates powerfully. An original, compelling must-read.”
-Jewell Parker Rhodes, New York Times bestselling author of Ghost Boys
“This richly detailed narrative offers elements of magical realism against a backdrop of social change, presenting a convincing family story and exploring community differences. A strong coming-of-age story grounded in a vibrant cultural heritage.”
These rituals serve as a way to connect with the past and tap into the power of roots and herbs. Another important theme in the book is the power of magic and the responsibility that comes with it. Jezebel is taught that magic should never be used for personal gain, but rather to help and heal others. As she delves deeper into the world of root magic, Jezebel realizes the weight of this responsibility and the potential consequences of misusing her powers. The notion of community is also explored in Root Magic. The Gullah community is portrayed as a tight-knit group that supports and protects one another. Through the various challenges and adversities faced by Jezebel and her friends, the importance of community becomes apparent. It is through the collective strength and wisdom of the community that Jezebel is able to overcome obstacles and embrace her true potential. Root Magic is a beautifully written and atmospheric novel that showcases the power of tradition, heritage, and magic. It is a story that celebrates the strength and resilience of a community and the importance of staying true to oneself while honoring the past. Eden Royce's storytelling transports readers to a world where magic and reality intertwine, leaving them captivated until the very last page..
Reviews for "How Root Magic Serves as a Link to the Past in Eden Royce's Fiction"
1. John - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Root Magic" by Eden Royce. I had high hopes for this book, but it just didn't deliver. The pacing was slow, and the story felt disjointed. I didn't connect with the characters, and the magical elements didn't feel well-developed. Overall, it felt like a missed opportunity for a captivating and immersive read.
2. Sarah - 3 stars - While "Root Magic" had some interesting concepts, I found it to be lacking in execution. The world-building felt shallow, and the magical aspects were not well-explained. The characters felt one-dimensional, and their actions and motivations were often unclear. The book had potential, but it needed more depth and polish to truly engage and captivate the reader.
3. David - 2 stars - I didn't enjoy "Root Magic" by Eden Royce. The writing style felt simplistic and lacked nuance. The plot was predictable, and I didn't feel invested in the outcome. The magical elements were underdeveloped, and I never fully understood the rules or limitations of the magic system. Overall, it was a lackluster read that failed to grab my attention or stimulate my imagination.