Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Bland, too-swift climax mars intriguing maritime fantasy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
As SONG OF THE ABYSS opens, young mapmaker Reyna is awakened by an attack on her ship in which nearly all of the crew have mysteriously disappeared. She escapes on her own, practically washing up at the feet of Prince Levi, neighboring royalty who has also lost friends and relatives to the unseen invaders. Determined to rescue their friends and loved ones, Reyna and crew set sail for dangerous waters.
Is It Any Good?
Sometimes a book's success comes down to its ending, and this charming maritime fantasy bobbles the climax. Reyna, Blaise, and Levi undergo a series of dangerous and interesting encounters, but when it comes to the final face-off, everything happens too swiftly and easily. Writer Makiia Lucier displays a sure hand with dialogue and action for most of the book, but it would have been better to conclude with more excitement. There will be further adventures, so here's hoping the next volume doesn't disappoint.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Song of the Abyss portrays strong young women in a fantasy setting. Why do some cultures allow women more autonomy than others?
Reyna finds herself in many dangerous situations by rarely resorts to violence. Is violence usually the best way to effect change?
How do rulers learn to lead? Why is Levi successful in his capacity as a prince and a ship captain?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Animals ( Ocean Creatures )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Houghton Mifflin Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : August 24, 2019
- Number of pages : 352
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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