I have read each of Emezi's novels and each time I am left with a newfound sense of either hope for the future, or a deeper understanding of trhe present. This book does both. Written with such care and emotion, Somadina is a powerful YA novel about greed, corruption, our abilities as people, and a look at how we change and grow into ourselves with experience. When you are young it is so hard to take the advice people give and put it into context, Somadina shows how we can do just that. This is a book I will never forget.

I'm a fan of Akwaeke Emezi's work. I came to read them through Pet, but I have enjoyed their adult novels as well.  I was excited to receive an ARC of Somadina, and it did not disappoint! The story is set in a magical West African world that has split apart due to this same magic that spread throughout the people during the Split. Each child receives their "gift" at some point, and this story follows twins Somadina and Jayaike, whose gifts have been delayed. Jayaike was taken by a "hunter," and Somadina joins others on a journey to rescue him despite dangers and family issues as she comes into her own identity and strength. This book is so good--Well paced, great character development, a nice balance of characters and plot. This is a good purchase for all high school libraries. Thank you to Net Galley and the publishers for this ARC.