By Lema H., Arundel High School
In Amari and the Night Brothers, thirteen-year-old Amari Peters uncovers a world of magic and secret societies. Upon the disappearance of her brother, Quinton, who went missing under mysterious circumstances, Amari is invited to join the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, where it is revealed to her that her family is of magical descent. Amari must use a balance of determination and vulnerability in the quest to find her brother across this magical and perilous world.
This book is an extremely great combination of adventure, mystery, and fantasy that any young reader can immediately get into and relate to. Amari's story – from being the underestimated girl to the courageous detective – is amazing. The characters in this novel are well-developed and feel so real. Each one is unique, having unique personalities and problems, most of which are relatable – especially the determination of Amari amidst prejudice and uncertainty.
The main highlights of this book are the themes of friendship, loyalty in the family, and the empowerment of oneself. In Alston's hands, this magical world really comes alive; his imagery is vibrant, and the strong dialogue adds depth to what his characters do and say. The pace is fast, not really allowing readers to get bored, causing them to always want to see what happens next.
There are, however, some moments that can be slightly predictable, especially for those well-read in fantasy. A few elements may strike one as cliché, but they do not detract from the reading experience. I highly recommend Amari and the Night Brothers to middle-grade readers who love magical adventures with strong heroines – like those in Harry Potter or Percy Jackson. This book is a beautiful mashup of fantasy and heartwarming storytelling, perfect for anyone in the mood for an uplifting story of bravery and self-discovery.
Click here to check out Amari and the Night Brothers by B. B. Alston