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In this edition of YA Shout-Outs, we’re sharing some of our fave upcoming releases from Black storytellers that would make great additions to your TBR!
Abeni’s Song by P. Djèlí Clark
“Abeni is in the fight of her life. After years of providing service and protection, an elderly woman living in her village’s forest collects her reward: Abeni. This fantasy adventure follows Abeni’s mission to rescue her captive villagers who were possessed by a cursed song. Meeting a few helpful hands along the way, Abeni’s Song reminds us that ‘help may arrive when you least expect.’ Abeni’s message will roar, but will you listen?
Abeni’s Song will be out in hardcover 7/25/23.”
Kayah Hodge, Marketing Assistant
Ace of Spades by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
“Ace of Spades is a high-octane thriller from debut author Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé. Devon Richards and Chiamaka Adebayo’s senior year at Niveus Private Academy takes a turn for the worse when they begin to be targeted by Aces, involving them in what soon becomes a very deadly game. I flew through this book in one sitting! I sat there, clutching the book and could not stop to even breathe until the very last page. Ace of Spades is an incredibly powerful novel discussing systemic racism and the extent people will go to maintain the status quo. At its core, it is a story about resilience, and how Black people will find ways to not just prevail but to ensure that future generations are not victims of the same cycles of trauma and abuse. Ace of Spades is new in paperback 7/18/23.”
Blood Debts by Terry J. Benton-Walker
“I live for the rare moments when a new storyteller launches onto the scene with a debut novel that reminds you why you fell in love with YA in the first place. Set in a magical, modern-day New Orleans, Terry J. Benton-Walker’s Blood Debts follows Clement and Cristina Trudeau twin heirs of a dethroned family who together must wield their powers to help right the wrongs of the past and unmask what dark forces seek to destroy them in the present. This book is giving Black royalty, unapologetic queerness, and deadly drama need I say more?! This is a 2023 debut fantasy not to be missed. Blood Debts releases 4/4/23.”
