Children of Blood and Bone

by Tomi Adeyemi
Children of Blood and Bone cover
Good Books rating 3.63
Fantasy
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Paperback • £9.99
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Technical
  • ID: 4139
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781509871360
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2018-03-08
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Children of Blood and Bone is a West African-inspired fantasy that weaves together dark magic and danger. The story is set in Orïsha, where different clans once ruled with unique magical abilities. However, a ruthless king ordered the eradication of magic, leaving Zélie without her mother and her people without hope. Now, Zélie has a chance to bring back magic and strike against the monarchy with the help of a rogue princess, while evading the crown prince who seeks to eliminate magic forever. The narrative is rich with complex world-building and superlative characterisation, making it a must-read for fantasy fans. The book is soon to be a major motion picture from Paramount Pictures, directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and starring a stellar cast including Amandla Stenberg, Viola Davis, and Idris Elba. This gripping tale explores themes of oppression, resilience, and the power of magic, all set against a backdrop of political intrigue and personal growth.

Reviews
Karissa Reads Books · Karissa · 2020-07-29
compelling 3.80

The book is suitable for ages 14+ due to its violence and gore, but it offers a compelling story with a strong protagonist.

Karissa found the book to be quite violent and gory, making it more suitable for older teens. However, she appreciated the strong protagonist and the compelling story that kept her hooked. The reviewer also noted the unique setting and the exploration of themes like oppression and resistance, which added depth to the narrative. While the violence might be a turn-off for some, the story's strengths make it a worthwhile read.

Quick quotes

    While this is definitely a YA book, I would say it's most suitable for age 14+.

    The protagonist is strong and the story is compelling.

    The setting is unique and the themes of oppression and resistance are well-explored.

The Guardian · The Guardian · 2018-03-07
unsatisfying 3.00

The story is well-written but ultimately unsatisfying, with a young girl seeking revenge and renewal through magic.

The Guardian reviewer found the book to be well-written but ultimately unsatisfying. They appreciated the unique setting and the exploration of themes like revenge and renewal. However, they felt that the story lacked depth and the characters were not fully developed. The reviewer also noted the pacing issues, which made the story feel rushed at times. Despite these criticisms, they acknowledged the book's strengths, such as its unique setting and the exploration of important themes.

Quick quotes

    A well-written but ultimately unsatisfying story.

    A young girl seeking revenge and renewal through the magic that was once part of her.

    The story is well-written but lacks depth and the characters are not fully developed.

Goodreads · 2018-03-06
fantastic 4.10

The writing is fantastic and the pacing is well-done, making the large novel feel like a quick read. The story is engaging and the world-building is impressive.

This reviewer was really impressed by the writing and pacing of the book. They felt that despite its length, the story flew by and kept them engaged. The world-building was particularly noteworthy, creating a rich and immersive setting. The reviewer also appreciated the cultural influences and the unique magic system, which added depth to the story. Overall, they found it to be a compelling and enjoyable read.

Quick quotes

    The writing was fantastic.

    Despite being such a large novel, the pacing was well-done.

    The world-building is impressive and the cultural influences are evident.

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