Somadina by Akwaeke Emezi
Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers on April 15, 2025
ISBN: 0593309073
Pages: 300
Genres: Fantasy
Format: Young Adult
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

“Somadina” is a young adult fantasy novel by Akwaeke Emezi. Somadina and her twin brother, Jayaike, inherit great magical powers which causes a hunter to kidnap Jayaike and Somadina decides to go after him. This West African inspired fantasy world is very well developed and will immerse readers in Emezi’s novel. Somadina faces danger, abuse, and other trauma, and being othered. The novel feels a little short at just under 300 pages and I could have read more. A very interesting and well-written YA fantasy. A suggested purchase for all YA collections, especially those who have Emezi’s other novels.

Reviewed by Kate Radke, Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook, ME