Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
New intrigue in action-packed, African-influenced fantasy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
At the start of CROWN OF THUNDER, Taj has abandoned his hometown in the wake of the destruction called down upon it by Queen Karima's deadly black magic. Wracked with guilt, he watches as innocent civilians flood a refugee camp. He and his traveling companion, Aliya, encounter a vicious new kind of sin-beast and barely escape with their lives and the knowledge that Queen Karima has not forgotten about them.
Is It Any Good?
There's a growing enthusiasm for fantasy with African roots, and this captivating novel of magic, religion, and politics benefits from the author's knowledge of Nigerian folklore and culture. Tochi Onyebuchi keeps the level of suspense high in Crown of Thunder, presenting new complications that up the stakes and add urgency to the plot. He deftly arranges the final confrontation between Taj and his enemies, presenting highly kinetic fight scenes. Although there's plenty left to explore in this dynamic fantasy land, this second volume ends on a welcome note of resolution, likely to leave readers satisfied but eager for more.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Crown of Thunder depicts the plight of refugees. What drives people to flee their homes and seek safety elsewhere? What can be done to help them?
How does Crown of Thunder define sin? What kinds of acts should people feel guilty about? Why would some pay to have their sins removed from their bodies?
What is the role of violence in Crown of Thunder? Is it easier to take in because it's mostly magical warfare? Does violence resolve conflicts or create more?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Razorbill
- Publication date : October 16, 2018
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 18
- Number of pages : 336
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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