A boy discovers magic -- along with a hidden darkness -- in his town in this propulsive and heartfelt middle grade novel by Craig Kofi Farmer, author of Kwame Crashes the Underworld.
12-year-old Marcus Pennrider feels far from magical. He's trying his best to balance school, a part-time job, and familial responsibilities that include looking after his little sister. On top of that, he's settling into living with his aunt in the vibrant city of Grand Park, after healing from his experience with his abusive father.
When Marcus discovers a secret magic flows through the streets of Grand Park, everything seems to start changing for the better. Even Mr. O, the local corner shop owner and beloved leader in the community, takes Marcus under his wing to teach him how to use magic. Maybe if Marcus becomes a Divinator, he can prove to the world that he's not just a burden -- that he's nothing like his father.
But as Marcus strays farther from his family and into the strange world of Divination magic, he becomes entrenched in a rigorous magical training program and increasingly dangerous relationship with Mr. O. It'll be up to Marcus to discover who his true family is, and that perhaps the real magic of Grand Park might lie in something much closer to home. A boy discovers magic -- along with a hidden darkness -- in his town in this propulsive and heartfelt middle grade novel by Craig Kofi Farmer, author of Kwame Crashes the Underworld. Craig Kofi Farmer is a Prince George's County native, with two Bachelor of Science degrees from Towson University and one Master of Education degree from the University of Maryland, College Park. He works in higher education administration, helping students achieve work-life balance and self-actualization. When he's not writing, he's analyzing superhero movies, watching psychological thrillers, and deciding exactly what he's going to eat that day. He is the author of Kwame Crashes the Underworld.
"In a heartfelt novel that examines themes of family and motivation, Farmer empathetically addresses abuse and loss"
and the hardships one might face in their aftermath
"Farmer's strong character development and worldbuilding bolster this fantasy story that centers on a majority Black cast and feels firmly anchored in realistic concerns."
Kirkus Reviews
"This thrilling, thoughtful story is far more than a magical mystery; it's also a careful contemplation of the forms that tyranny and abuse can take...It's an extraordinary exploration of the aftermath of abuse and the power in discovering one's own special brand of magic."
