Common Sense Media Review
By Barbara Saunders
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Tween searches for sister in bold, funny dystopian novel.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
When THE GENIE GAME begins, 13-year-old Valentine, a Nigerian American 8th grader with an ambition to become a filmmaker, receives a magical sign reminding her that she has a beloved elder sister, who is missing. She discovers her parents don't remember her sister existed at all. Valentine follows clues to where her sister might be and finds herself imprisoned in a magical boba shop. Determined to find her sister and win her freedom, she learns about the sinister corporate monopolies that have taken control of her society and how to fight them.
Is It Any Good?
This imaginative tale takes on heavy topics in a lighthearted way. In The Genie Game by Jordan Ifuoye (Raybearer, a New York Times bestseller), the spunky main character wins over readers from the start with her loyalty, determination, and humor. Author Jordan Ifueko gently explores immigrant family experiences, parental expectations, corporate corruption, capitalist exploitation, and consumerism in a fast-moving, exciting plot. A great choice for kids who are ready for complex topics but need accessible, easy-to-read language.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why integrity matters in The Genie Game. While acting with integrity can sometimes require sacrifice, integrity can also lead you to the path to meaningful success. Can you think of a time when sticking to your principles brought you a "win"?
Discuss the different ways the characters in The Genie Game exhibit teamwork. What skills might you want to improve to be a better team member?
Why is it important to have empathy for other people when you want to help them or influence them? How can good intentions go wrong when empathy is absent?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Adventures , Competition , Dystopia , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Empathy , Integrity , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Amulet Books
- Publication date : April 21, 2026
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 10 - 14
- Number of pages : 368
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : August 27, 2026
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
Suggest an Update
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