Much like the first book, I loved the lore, but it felt like constant pacing issues. I struggled to get into the book at first, and then by the end the plan and the solution changed three or four times in the span of about two or three chapters and it simply felt rushed. I think the book could have benefited from having parts of the story told from perspectives that weren't Taj as well, as I often felt like I was missing a lot of information- which, so was Taj, but then when he was informed or figured it out, it was over with in a very short timeframe which made even important aspects feel very much downplayed and made it feel as if certain aspects were being pulled from thin air (even if I know they weren't). All in all, by no means an awful book - but needed to be fleshed out more, with enough uniqueness to the lore to fill far more than just 300-odd pages. ( )

Crown of Thunder (Tochi Onyebuchi) NY: Razorbill: 2018

Choice: YA

Summary: Taj and Aliya ran away from Kos but can't escape the queen's wrath. She sends beasts and soldiers after him, eventually bringing him back. Together Taj and Aliya get the people of Kos together and defeat Queen Karima.

Critique: A unique book using unique words and descriptions. Enjoyable read.

Activity (after) What would your fantasy kingdom look like? Colors, houses, rules?