Conjure Island

Eleven-year-old Del is sent to live with her grandmother, Nana Rose, on a secluded island in South Carolina. Expecting a boring summer, she instead finds herself in a world of Gullah Geechee haint magic and conjure. As Del learns that her family has a long history of protecting the island, she must master her own latent magical abilities to save her grandmother and the island's spirits from a dark force. SENSITIVE TOPICS: The book deals with themes of family separation and the death of a parent in a realistic but hopeful manner. The magic is rooted in Gullah Geechee traditions, providing a secular and cultural approach to spirituality rather than a strictly religious one. The resolution is empowering and hopeful. EMOTIONAL ARC: The story begins with a heavy sense of isolation and resentment as Del feels abandoned. It builds into a sense of wonder and mystery as she discovers the magic, ending on a high note of self-assurance and belonging. IDEAL READER: A 10-year-old who feels disconnected from their heritage or who has recently experienced a major family shift and needs to see a protagonist find strength in their roots. PARENT TRIGGER: A parent might notice their child questioning where they come from or expressing frustration about not knowing their extended family. PARENT PREP: Parents should be aware of atmospheric, slightly spooky scenes involving 'haints' (ghosts). It can be read cold, but discussing the Gullah Geechee culture beforehand adds depth. AGE EXPERIENCE: Younger readers (8-9) will focus on the magic and the mystery of the island. Older readers (11-12) will better grasp the nuances of cultural erasure and the importance of oral history. DIFFERENTIATOR: Unlike many fantasy novels that use European mythology, this book centers on the unique, rich traditions of Gullah Geechee culture and rootwork, making it a vital piece of diverse representation.