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A review by aotales
Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston
5.0
It’s sometimes harder to write a review for a book you thoroughly enjoyed, because all I can think to say is: This book is bloody fantastic and you should go read it now.
B.B. Alston has created a magnificent, strong character chock full of real Black-Girl Magic - she’s alive, dynamic, intelligent and strong. The way Alston has seamlessly included racial injustice, inequality, and Black Lives Matter conversations within in this fantastic fantasy world without it overtaking the entire story, is remarkable and incredibly well done. Every good middle grade will open up conversations on hard topics and reading of the daily inequalities Amari faces as a Black girl will not only be impactful in the perspective of sensitivity and empathy for non-Black readers but will be incredibly powerful for young Black readers who will see themselves in such a capable, fierce character.
Compelling characters and important conversation aside - this is such an enjoyable fantasy world. While the whole “magical school” setting has been done, B.B. Alston makes it fresh and thoroughly entertaining. Alive with magic, heart, grit, gumption and action, Amari and the Night Brothers now proudly stands on the shelf as one of my favourite Middle Grade reads. Go forth and enjoy!
B.B. Alston has created a magnificent, strong character chock full of real Black-Girl Magic - she’s alive, dynamic, intelligent and strong. The way Alston has seamlessly included racial injustice, inequality, and Black Lives Matter conversations within in this fantastic fantasy world without it overtaking the entire story, is remarkable and incredibly well done. Every good middle grade will open up conversations on hard topics and reading of the daily inequalities Amari faces as a Black girl will not only be impactful in the perspective of sensitivity and empathy for non-Black readers but will be incredibly powerful for young Black readers who will see themselves in such a capable, fierce character.
Compelling characters and important conversation aside - this is such an enjoyable fantasy world. While the whole “magical school” setting has been done, B.B. Alston makes it fresh and thoroughly entertaining. Alive with magic, heart, grit, gumption and action, Amari and the Night Brothers now proudly stands on the shelf as one of my favourite Middle Grade reads. Go forth and enjoy!