logo

56 pages 1 hour read

Root Magic

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2021

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Eden Royce

Root Magic

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2021
Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

South Carolina • 1960s

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Root Magic by Eden Royce follows Jezebel "Jez" Turner and her twin brother Jay in the Jim Crow South as they learn rootworking from their Uncle Doc after their grandmother's death. They face external threats, like racially motivated antagonism from law enforcement, and supernatural challenges, while strengthening their bonds with their family, ancestors, and the magical traditions of their Gullah Geechee culture.

Mysterious

Emotional

Fantastical

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.5

3,658 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Eden Royce's Root Magic is widely praised for its rich depiction of Gullah culture and vibrant storytelling. Reviewers commend the book's atmospheric setting and multifaceted characters, particularly the strong, relatable protagonist. Criticism mainly focuses on pacing issues in certain parts of the plot. Overall, it’s celebrated as a compelling read that blends historical elements with supernatural intrigue effectively.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Root Magic?

Readers who enjoy Root Magic by Eden Royce are likely fans of middle-grade historical fiction with elements of Southern folklore and magic. Comparable to Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor and Bayou Magic by Jewell Parker Rhodes, they relish richly woven tales of family, resilience, and cultural heritage.

4.5

3,658 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Jezebel “Jez” Turner

The protagonist, an intelligent 11-year-old girl learning rootwork in a family known for this tradition, who excels in school but struggles socially. She navigates the challenges of mastering rootwork and her changing family dynamics.

Jez’s outgoing twin brother who shares her age and begins to learn rootwork alongside her. He struggles with feelings of insecurity and the distance forming between him and his sister.

Jez and Jay’s mother who runs the family farm and markets a variety of produce. She is a protective matriarch who faces challenges from racist authorities and struggles with the decision to let her children learn rootwork.

The twins’ uncle, a rootworker who advocates for teaching Jez and Jay the family tradition. He provides wisdom and guidance in balancing their cultural heritage with personal growth.

Jez and Jay’s grandmother, whose recent passing leaves a significant void. Her legacy and protective nature continue to influence the family, particularly Jez's approach to rootwork.

The main antagonist, a police officer who targets the Turner family due to their rootworking background. His character embodies hostility and abuse of power without much complexity.

Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

South Carolina • 1960s

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.