As a busy mom I have found it difficult to find time to sit and really read, but with the start of a challenge to help benefit St. Jude I picked up this book and read 30minutes a day for a month. Because I enjoyed getting back into reading I have decided to start blogging about the many books mom (me!) can read. So follow my Lazy Mom Reads journey as I read and review books.
The first book I want to review is Nubia: The Awakening. This is a book written by Omar Epps and Clarence Haynes...yes the actor OMAR EPPS ya'll! I am unsure if this is his writing debut, but I must say he did a great job. This book followed three teens, Nubians, as hey navigated a world ravaged by climate change, social segregation and racism. Although it took place in the future the struggles of these teens to find themselves in this new world could mirror the teens (and some adults) of today.
The teens were from a Western African country (they never specifically name a particular West African country) and became climate refugees in New York City, but not the city of today. Many climate refugees have the dream of moving "Up High," where all the wealthy and lucky citizens live, leaving the poor and Nubians below. But the most powerful person Up High longs to have more power and will do anything to get it, even exploit children, their culture and their ties to each other, and their culture.
The book was slow, but was steady. The authors did a great job of giving you the back story of each child; Zuberi, Uzochi and Lencho and their many friends. You learn why the Nubians ended up where they did, who they really are, and their rich history.
Like in every story of obtaining powers there is always someone who wants to use those powers for evil. This is what we find after the kids are awakened to their abilities.
This is a great story of culture, history and fighting for what's right. If you love sci-fi books, then this one is for you! I'm excited to find and read the second book, as I want to know what happens!
If you haven't read this book go and find it because this is an exciting first book. Hopefully the second book in this series is just as good. I'm curious to learn what happens to the children.
