Nubia: The Awakening
African teen superheroes saga aims high, delivers.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Nubia: The Awakening is a near-future science fiction novel written by actor/producer/rapper Omar Epps and author/book editor Clarence A. Haynes. It's set in a New York City altered by climate change and filled with refugees from a fictional West African nation, including the three teens with superpowers who are the center of this story. There's some discreet drug dealing and occasional swearing ("hell," "damn," "s--t," and "f--k").
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What's the Story?
The start of NUBIA: THE AWAKENING highlights the history of a magical land. After the utopian island nation of Nubia was destroyed, most refugees landed in New York City. A generation later, many of their offspring are exhibiting superpowers, from telepathy to clairvoyance. Local teens Zuberi, Uzochi, and Lencho react differently to the double-edged gifts. Some choose to uplift their fellow citizens; others grasp greedily at power.
Is It Any Good?
Superpowered teens are a dime a dozen, but this African-accentuated adventure uses them to good advantage. With Nubia, co-authors Omar Epps and Clarence A. Haynes build a convincing future atop current speculation and assemble a cast of teens worth paying attention to. Their adventure is just beginning, and the saga holds a lot of promise.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Nubia: The Awakening imagines the future of New York City. What might climate change do to sea levels?
Why do kids join gangs? How do gangs affect their communities? What can be done to change their behavior?
How important is tradition in your community? Do you respect your elders, or are you most interested in the latest trends?
Book Details
- Authors: Omar Epps, Clarence A. Haynes
- Genre: Science Fiction
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Superheroes, Great Boy Role Models, Great Girl Role Models, High School
- Character Strengths: Courage, Empathy, Self-control
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
- Publication date: November 8, 2022
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 12 - 16
- Number of pages: 368
- Available on: Audiobook (unabridged), iBooks, Kindle
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: November 28, 2022
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