Root Magic
on Goodreads (3,298)
What’s inside...
Root Magic, by debut author Eden Royce, is set in 1963 South Carolina and tells the story of Jezebel Turner and her twin brother, Jay, who begin to learn rootwork—a form of African American folk magic—from their uncle, Doc, after their grandmother’s death. As they explore their family’s magical legacy, they confront both natural and supernatural threats to their community, while also navigating school integration and local harassment. This novel highlights the history and culture of Gullah people and explores themes of love, bravery, friendship, and family with magical elements interwoven throughout.
Age
9-12
Length
352 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Jezebel Turner
Susie
Mama Turner
Jay Turner
Uncle Doc
Deputy Collins
Discussion points
What do you think Jezebel felt when she discovered her magical abilities? How would you feel in her situation?
Root Magic touches on themes of family heritage and traditions. What traditions do we have in our family that are important to you?
The setting of the story is in the 1960s South Carolina. How do you think the time and place affect the story and the characters?
Jezebel and her brother face several challenges in the book. What can we learn from how they handle these difficulties?
How do the themes of courage and resilience in Root Magic inspire you in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on each character’s decisions and the outcomes. Ask them how they might have acted differently in the same situations.
Discuss the historical context of the book. Help your child understand the era of the 1960s in South Carolina and how it influences the story.
Connect the magical elements in the story to real-life lessons about courage, family, and tradition. Ask how these lessons could be applied in everyday situations.
After reading the book, explore more about Gullah culture together to provide a richer context for the story’s setting and themes.
Use examples from the book to discuss overcoming fear and the importance of facing challenges, relating them to personal experiences or future scenarios your child might encounter.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Root Magic', the protagonist faces supernatural and societal challenges, using courage and determination to overcome them.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of staying strong and determined even when facing difficulties, whether it's at school, in sports, or in their social lives.
Example Lesson: The value of cultural heritage
Explanation: The story emphasizes the importance of heritage and traditions, as the characters draw strength from their Gullah roots and family history.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate and take pride in their own cultural background and history, fostering a sense of identity and belonging.
Example Lesson: Understanding and confronting prejudice
Explanation: Characters in 'Root Magic' confront racial prejudices, offering a narrative that encourages understanding and empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize prejudices and stereotypes, and the importance of confronting these issues with empathy and courage in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community support
Explanation: Throughout 'Root Magic', family and community play crucial roles in supporting the protagonists, highlighting the strength found in collective support.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to seek support from and contribute to their own families and communities, understanding the mutual benefits of such relationships.