Orisha was land created by the gods. Some humans were gifted with powers and called magis; each magi's gift depended on the powers (air, wind, etc.) of the god who bestowed it. For generations, magi used their powers to help humanity, but when the Orishan king became frightened of the magi's power, he decided to wipe them out. On the day known as "The Raid," every living magician was murdered, and the connection to magic was severed completely. Now the children born with magic potential, known as diviners and born with white hair that is impossible to hide, are called maggots and constantly fear for their lives.
Zelie's mother was a Reaper, a magi who controlled death. At age six, she watched the king's guards murder her mother during "The Raid." Born a diviner, Zelie has no rights and must constantly work to control her anger as she watches the repression of her people. Zelie is strong and outspoken, which always gets her in trouble. When a young girl with the key to unlocking magic begs her help, she knows it is dangerous but doesn't hesitate to protect her. The girl happens to be the king's daughter, Amari. Her theft sends them on a dangerous journey to bring back magic, with Amari's brother, Prince Inan, hot on their trail. The prince abhors magic, and he will stop at nothing to please his father and eradicate magic. With the future of magic in her hands, Zelie cannot afford to make mistakes. However, decisions are not black and white, especially when the human heart is involved.
Not only is Children of Blood and Bone the best new fantasy of 2018, it is also a groundbreaking addition to teen fantasy. Just like the recent Black Panther movie, this book is written by an African American author, telling an African story, with all black characters and themes that tie to the continued violence against black young men, and everyone will be enthralled by its superb storytelling. Every teen fantasy fan needs to read this phenomenal novel. Adeyemi's characters are unique, strong, yet flawed, and you cannot help cheering for them as the struggle to make their world a better place. Zelie and Amari are stunning as they grow to become the warriors of their destiny. The magic is powerful and fantastical, and Adeyemi's writing makes it feel authentic. As a fantasy fan and a supporter of diverse literature, I have been waiting and waiting for this book to be written, and now that it is, I just can't wait for the next one in the series. Highly, highly recommended!