Name: Amanda
Grade: 10
Title: Children of Blood and Bone
Author: Tomi Adeyemi
Published: 2018
Pages: 525
Stars: 5
Review: Children of Blood and Bone, the first book of the series, is about a young Maji named Zelie Adebola who is trying to bring magic back. At a young age, she experiences the Raid, which resulted in the tragic death of her mother and the mass genocide of the Maji. Now, she has a chance to bring magic back and rise against the ruthless and barbaric monarchy.
While reading this novel, I was hooked and I found it hard to take my eyes off the page. The author uses interesting diction, figurative language, and imagery to paint a picture, and I was able to empathize with the characters. I could feel the characters’ pain and my heart shattered as I read. Each of the characters is unique in a different way, but my favorite character is the main protagonist, Zellie. Zellie is such a strong individual and she is made to fight. Although she is hesitant and short-tempered sometimes, she can risk her life to save the people she loves. After finishing the novel, I felt empowered and I was inspired to create a positive change. Most of the events that take place in the book are very similar to events in real life, like discrimination against Black people in the U.S. and the victims of police brutality.
If you are a teen and you like reading fantasy novels, I would recommend Children of Blood and Bone. Reading this novel will give you a new perspective on the world, and it will help you have empathy for those who are facing oppression and discrimination. This book reminded me of the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, so if you like reading about magic, you should consider reading Children of Blood and Bone.
AFL Teen Book Reviews 