I want to state up front that I think it's incredibly irresponsible to not have content warnings for a middle-grade book with such heavy topics (death of parental figure, lynching, murder, familial/religious abuse and themes, gaslighting by adults, etc.). That being said, I loved the historical and cultural setting that the author brought to life. So many little details that were really impressive and brought the characters to life. DO NOT READ THIS BOOK HUNGRY, especially if you're from the South or have a love of Southern food lol. It'll have you crying with hunger. Hoodoo is a great, smart kiddo. Unfortunately he has to deal with a lot of stuff, from the literal monsters he fights to the adults in his life telling him he's got evil (he's 12) and has to save his family while also criticizing him for trying to do so. It's infuriating what he goes through with minimal if any acknowledgement how messed up it is. Not a great message for kids in that respect, imo. I also found the advanced knowledge of a 12-year-old in 1930s Alabama a little unbelievable at times. And the pacing at the end especially was a bit off. It is, however, a fun, quick read and the narration voice was great.