Book Review: Voodoo Shack

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When mystery spawns around teenage gangs, the Voodoo Shack becomes the place to unravel every entanglement.


"Voodoo Shack: A Michigan Mystery" by Terri Martin is a delightful children's mystery novel. The story follows 11-year old Iris Weston and her friends as they discover a dilapidated hunting cabin deep in Hazard Swamp. They turn it into a secret clubhouse, named the "Voodoo Shack." As they explore the cabin, they uncover clues about a mysterious death and an unsolved crime, sparking their curiosity and leading them on an adventure filled with suspense and intrigue.
 
Front cover of the book

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This book is perfect for young readers who enjoy a good mystery with a touch of the supernatural. It is bound to captivate young teenage readers. Firstly, the principal character, led by the adventurous Iris Weston, resonates well with young teens who see bits of themselves in the fearless, curious, and tenacious group of friends. The engaging mystery of solving an unsolved crime and uncovering a mysterious death, coupled with the eerie setting of Hazard Swamp, keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Moreover, the novel highlights the importance of friendship, teamwork, and bravery-key themes inspiring and relatable to young readers navigating their social circles and personal challenges. The subtle hints of the supernatural add an exciting layer to the story, appealing more to those who enjoy a blend of realism and fantasy. Finally, the book's accessible language and coming-of-age elements add depth to the story and engage readers on an emotional level.

In essence, "Voodoo Shack" offers a thrilling adventure where friends unravel mysteries with an ethereal touch, making it an enticing read for young teenage readers. So, hurry and click here to get a copy added to your kids' collection this Halloween season!

Voodoo Shack: A Michigan Mystery Review

Set in the early 1960s, Martin's novel traces a girl's journey toward understanding the true meaning of love, family and friendship. Iris is an appealing character whose relationships with friends and family are realistically portrayed as she struggles to find her place.
School Library Journal

Martin has drawn on her childhood memories to create an engaging, feisty heroine, lively supporting characters and an easy-to-visualize early 1960s rural Michigan setting. And, although Iris doesn't solve all her mysteries, she finds the answers to the most important ones in this fast-paced story.
ALA Booklist

Readers fond of lightweight mysteries solved by spunky heroines will take to this fiction debut, though a heavy ballast of tragedy and near-tragedy keeps it low to the ground. Some of the dialogue and set pieces show a promising authorial gift for comedy. (Fiction. 10-12)
Kirkus Reviews

...add to this drama that Iris's grandmother is ill, maybe dying in her fears, and she has messed absolutely everything up. Of course, the obvious thing is to admit all her messes to her parents, but who of us at that age ever did that? Any of us 'grownups' who are the least bit honest know exactly how Iris feels. Kids that age today (in the middle of their hopes, dreams, and fears) find a heroine in Voodoo Shack who they identify with and will begin to feel: If she can do it, I can, too.
Deborah K. Frontiera, U.P. Book

By: Quotidian Tales

Disclaimer:
This article and the opinions expressed in it are personal opinions. It is not meant for imposing specific views or endorsing a particular way of life. Also please do ignore any errors or omissions that you might come across. We pledge to learn from them. Happy viewing.

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