Common Sense Media Review
By Barbara Saunders
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Black teen discovers magical heritage in exciting fantasy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
When BLOOD AT THE ROOT begins, Malik, a 17-year-old Black boy whose magical powers caused his mother to vanish, steals a car, kidnaps his foster brother -- who's being abused by their foster parents, and heads out of Alabama for a new life in California. A mysterious stranger they meet at a gas station delivers a letter from a grandmother Malik didn't know he had. Malik takes a detour to New Orleans, where he enrolls in the historically Black (magic) college where his mom went and where his family secrets are unraveled.
Is It Any Good?
Thrilling and poignant, this debut novel from LaDarrion Williams pushes the genre in exciting ways. Main character Malik is especially sympathetic. Readers hear about his feelings after he lost his mother and then see him choose to give his younger foster brother the sense of safety he never had. The author portrays a Black boy who is magical, vulnerable, and nurturing, all at once. Malik's narration is full of slang and character, making for a tight, realistic read, even with all the magic and spells. An engrossing page turner that'll leave readers ready for the next installment.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the theme of family history in Blood at the Root. Is there an ancestor or family story you're curious about?
Betrayal is a recurring theme in Blood at the Root. How can cultivating empathy help people forgive and rebuild trust?
The characters face many scary encounters and situations. What's the most courageous thing you've ever done?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Curiosity , Empathy
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Labyrinth Road
- Publication date : May 7, 2024
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 14 - 17
- Number of pages : 432
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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