"The Magic of Ordinary Days" "The Magic of Ordinary Days" is a novel written by Ann Howard Creel that tells a heartwarming and captivating story set during World War II. The book explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the beauty of everyday life. The story revolves around Livy Dunne, a young woman who finds herself in an unplanned and arranged marriage due to her unexpected pregnancy. Livy is sent to rural Colorado to live with her husband, a quiet and reserved farmer named Ray Singleton. As Livy adjusts to her new life in a small town, she begins to discover the magic that hides within ordinary days. Livy initially feels trapped and isolated in her new environment, longing for the city life she left behind.
The reason for this trip to the witchdoctor was shrouded in mystery and when I asked Pleasure why he was going, he only rubbed his stomach and said:
Pleasure had already visited the clinic 60 kilometers away to see the modern doctors, but he was still feeling ill and now seeking a traditional remedy. McTeer s subsequent attempts to convict Robinson failed until, according to McTeer s memoirs, the sheriff began studying root work and promoted the rumor that he himself was a powerful doctor.
Livy initially feels trapped and isolated in her new environment, longing for the city life she left behind. However, as she becomes more acquainted with the local community and begins to form relationships, Livy starts to appreciate the simple moments and the beauty that can be found in the mundane. From the quiet walks in nature to the shared meals with loved ones, Livy discovers that extraordinary joy can be found in the ordinary.
Dr. Buzzard
Robinson’s specialty was “chewing the root” in court, a practice designed to protect criminal defendants from guilty verdicts or harsh sentences.
2 minutes to readThe title “Dr. Buzzard” has been claimed by numerous root workers (practitioners of West African–derived folk medicine and magic, commonly referred to as voodoo, hoodoo, or conjuring) along the South Carolina and Georgia coasts. The most well-known, if not the original, Dr. Buzzard was Stephany Robinson, an African American from St. Helena Island who began practicing root work in the early 1900s. He continued attracting clients, both locally and from around the country, until his death in early 1947. According to legend, Robinson’s father was a “witch doctor” who had been brought directly to St. Helena from West Africa, despite the antebellum ban on the importation of slaves from Africa. He was said to have wielded enormous spiritual power, which he passed on to his son.
Robinson’s specialty was “chewing the root” in court, a practice designed to protect criminal defendants from guilty verdicts or harsh sentences. This practice brought Robinson in conflict with J. E. McTeer, sheriff of Beaufort County from 1926 to 1963. McTeer attempted to charge Robinson with practicing medicine without a license but failed when his primary witness went into convulsions on the witness stand. McTeer’s subsequent attempts to convict Robinson failed until, according to McTeer’s memoirs, the sheriff began studying root work and promoted the rumor that he himself was a powerful “doctor.” When Robinson’s son drove his car into a causeway and drowned, Dr. Buzzard called a truce and promised to give up medicine but not “spells.” When Robinson died, he passed on his business to his son-in-law, who was known locally as “Buzzy.” Other root workers apparently borrowed the name Dr. Buzzard, hoping to cash in on Robinson’s notoriety, and a practice that began during his life continued long after his death.
Hyatt, Harry Middleton, ed. Hoodoo, Conjuration, Witchcraft, Rootwork. 5 vols. Washington, D.C., 1970–1973.
McTeer, J. E. Fifty Years as a Low Country Witch Doctor. Beaufort, S.C.: Beaufort Book Company, 1976.
Pinckney, Roger. Blue Roots: African-American Folk Magic of the Gullah People. 2d ed. Orangeburg, S.C.: Sandlapper, 2003.
- Written by Stephen Criswell
Throughout the novel, Livy learns the value of sacrifice and the power of forgiveness. She becomes entangled in a love triangle when a Japanese-American man named Sergeant Harris unexpectedly enters her life. As Livy navigates her feelings for both Ray and Harris, she is forced to make difficult choices that will not only impact her future but also the lives of those around her. "The Magic of Ordinary Days" beautifully captures the essence of life during wartime and showcases the resilience and strength of its characters. The author explores the themes of prejudice and societal expectations, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals during this uncertain time in history. The novel also emphasizes the importance of finding solace in nature and the healing powers of a supportive community. Livy's journey serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always room for love and growth. In conclusion, "The Magic of Ordinary Days" is a captivating and enchanting novel that highlights the beauty and hidden wonders of everyday life. Through Livy's journey, readers are reminded to cherish the simple moments and embrace the magic that can be found within the ordinary..
Reviews for "The Joy of Simplicity: Discovering the Magic in Ordinary Days"
1. Sandra - 1 star
I found "The Magic of Ordinary Days" to be incredibly boring and uneventful. The story follows Livy, a young woman who is forced into an arranged marriage with a stranger during World War II. I thought this premise had potential, but unfortunately, the execution fell flat. The characters lacked depth, and their interactions felt forced and unrealistic. The pace of the plot was excruciatingly slow, and I found myself constantly checking how many pages were left. Overall, I was thoroughly disappointed with this book and would not recommend it to others.
2. John - 2 stars
I picked up "The Magic of Ordinary Days" expecting a heartwarming historical romance, but I was left feeling underwhelmed. While the concept of a love blossoming between Livy and Ray, despite their initially tumultuous relationship, intrigued me, the story failed to deliver on its promise. The writing style felt detached and lacked the emotional connection needed to truly invest in the characters' journey. The plot development was predictable, and the conflicts felt contrived. Overall, it was a forgettable read that I wouldn't recommend to fans of the genre.
3. Emily - 2.5 stars
"The Magic of Ordinary Days" had all the ingredients for an engaging historical novel, but it failed to live up to my expectations. The characters lacked depth, making it difficult to relate to or care about their struggles. The romance between Livy and Ray felt rushed and lacking in genuine emotion. Additionally, the pacing dragged in parts, which made the story feel unnecessarily long. While there were moments that showcased the author's ability to capture the era's atmosphere, it wasn't enough to salvage the overall lackluster and forgettable reading experience.