If only I was nominated to join the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs...
What’s it about?
"Amari Peters knows three things.
Her big brother Quinton has gone missing.
No one will talk about it.
His mysterious job holds the secret ...
So when Amari gets an invitation to the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, she's certain this is her chance to find Quinton. But first, she has to get her head around the new world of the Bureau, where mermaids, aliens and magicians are real, and her roommate is a weredragon.
Amari must compete against kids who've known about the supernatural world their whole lives, and when each trainee is awarded a special supernatural talent, Amari is given an illegal talent - one that the Bureau views as dangerous.
With an evil magician threatening the whole supernatural world, and her own classmates thinking she is the enemy, Amari has never felt more alone. But if she doesn't pass the three tryouts, she may never find out what happened to Quinton ..."
My Thoughts...
All the best parts of Men in Black mixed with Harry Potter and of course a Kick-Ass magician. Amari is on the hard to find her brother Quinton who recently went missing. She believes that he is still alive even though everybody else seems to think she's crazy. On the last day of school, she receives an interesting package that leads are until world she never even knew existed and one she will change forever. Interesting characters, Kick-Ass storyline and of course a little bit of danger mixed right in. This is definitely a contender for my book of the year and I believe everybody needs to read it whether you like YA or just a bit of fantasy. This is pitched as a middle-grade book however I think it is worth reading no matter your age. If you don't already have this on your radar you really should change that.
Sometimes a book comes along just when you need it, it provides the perfect escape when life seems to be too much. With the UK going into its second major lockdown and my work-life drying right up (I work within a school as part of the Theatre department). I have found myself needing an escape, and boy did Amari provide that escape. BB Alston was able to create a complete world, from the moment the briefcase arrives. I wanted to jump on the Jolly Roger and see the trains, I wanted a 'one-size fits all' Duboise suit, perhaps not in an outrageous colour combination, I wanted to befriend a Yeti and discover what my hidden ability is.
I really believe that this book is the start of a strong series of books, one which will empower young readers to dream of a bigger world. One where no matter your background, great things can be achieved. At the heart of this book is one sister love and determination to discover the truth behind her brother's disappearance. Along the way she makes friends, fights prejudices and racism and ultimately proves that believing in yourself is the most important part of achieving any dream.
I could go on and on, but I am aware of not giving away any spoilers! So do yourself a favour and purchase this book! You won't regret it!!
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