A review by jessicaludden
Somadina by Akwaeke Emezi

adventurous emotional tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Akwaeke Emezi’s writing always blows me away and Somadina is no exception. This is such a rich fantasy novel that fits so much into a short standalone novel. It explores the idea of being rejected from not only your community but also your family, the people who raised you and how it’s not always an option to go back to that. Despite her hardships Somadina comes into herself and discovers the people who truly care for her. She explores this power that she never wanted and I appreciate that she didn’t have to use it even though she became desperately willing to do so. It also looks into the dangers of not speaking up. Whether it be an individual or a group of people, there are consequences to not speaking out against violence. Overall this was an enjoyable YA fantasy and as always Akwaeke Emezi finds a way to leave you thinking.