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A review by taniyo_k
Raybearer by Jordan Ifueko
adventurous
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
“Only one thing is more powerful than a wish, and that is a purpose.”
This was a thrilling YA fantasy that deeply explored themes of leadership, justice, and civic responsibility - all themes that feel particularly resonant and important at this moment in time. The realism and maturity of the young characters’ attempts to understand their roles as leaders was incredibly moving. The plot was also inventive and compelling, avoiding many common tropes while also not choosing the unexpected for the unexpected’s sake. As an adult, my only criticism with the world-building was that each fantasy nation was a fictionalized version of one of a handful of world cultures; that being said, I also think that is something I would have loved as a teenager, so I can’t fault it in its context.
This was a thrilling YA fantasy that deeply explored themes of leadership, justice, and civic responsibility - all themes that feel particularly resonant and important at this moment in time. The realism and maturity of the young characters’ attempts to understand their roles as leaders was incredibly moving. The plot was also inventive and compelling, avoiding many common tropes while also not choosing the unexpected for the unexpected’s sake. As an adult, my only criticism with the world-building was that each fantasy nation was a fictionalized version of one of a handful of world cultures; that being said, I also think that is something I would have loved as a teenager, so I can’t fault it in its context.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child abuse, Child death, and Death of parent