Last Gate of the Emperor, Book 1
Afrofuturistic adventure hits its targets for sci-fi fans.
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Last Gate of the Emperor is a science fiction adventure tale by Kwame Mbalia (Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky) and Prince Joel Makonnen. Wiseguy Yared Heywat is a champion in the augmented-reality game The Hunt for Kaleb's Obelisk, based on African folklore. It has lots of fighting with "killer" robots, but little actual bloodshed. Mild romantic crushes occur in the story.
Community Reviews
There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
What's the Story?
As LAST GATE OF THE EMPEROR starts, Yared Haywat is scraping by as an underground games player in Addis Prime, dependent on his worrywart Uncle Moti and the bionic lioness Besa for security and family stability. When the game's rules are changed and Yared has to input his real name, he's suddenly a real-life target. Uncle Moti disappears and a mysterious fighter known as the Ibis becomes a reluctant ally. Beleaguered by high-tech weapons and monsters out of Ethiopian folklore, Yared, the Ibis, and Besa must work together to save their city and themselves.
Is It Any Good?
Afrofuturism has become a popular genre, and this high-flying African adventure demonstrates its appeal. In Last Gate of the Emperor, Kwame Mbalia and Prince Joel Makonnen concoct a fast-paced tale reminiscent of Star Wars at its best, filled with folklore and high tech. Yared is a wisecracking and likable protagonist, especially when interacting with his pal Besa. There are plenty of plot twists and unexpected revelations. Readers who love sci-fi will find plenty to enjoy here, and they're likely to be on the lookout for further adventures in this universe.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the Ethiopian folklore in Last Gate of the Emperor. Why is it important to learn about your ancestors? Does imagining the future help with present-day problems?
How does being an orphan affect Yared's sense of insecurity?
Is it a good idea to keep secrets? What can go wrong when you tell lies?
Book Details
- Authors: Kwame Mbalia, Prince Joel Makonnen
- Genre: Science Fiction
- Topics: Sports and Martial Arts, Adventures, Great Boy Role Models, Space and Aliens
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Scholastic Press
- Publication date: May 4, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 8 - 12
- Number of pages: 304
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: August 31, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
-
Shuri: A Black Panther Novel, Book 1
Bold princess shines in African superhero adventure.
-
City of the Plague God
Action-packed tale of Middle East myths, magic, monsters.
-
The Vanished: Shuri, A Black Panther Novel, Book 2
African princess on engaging quest to rescue girl prodigies.
For kids who love science fiction
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate