MOKO MAGIC

A trio of Afro-Caribbean cousins in New York City come to terms with their powers in this sequel to Moko Magic: Carnival Chaos (2024).

When Uncle Andrew gets the opportunity of a lifetime—being featured in an upcoming exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum—he explains to Aidan, his son, and Misty and Brooke, his nieces, that he’s hoping to incorporate one of the famed Benin Bronzes into his art. The cousins inherited moko magic, each gaining one-third of their Trini family’s fantastical legacy, which was passed down from a West African ancestor. While Aidan’s healing powers and Brooke’s ability to manifest purple bubbles of protection are helpful in their new adventure, the action kicks off with Misty’s visions and a mysterious familial connection to the bronzes, which were looted in the 19th century from present-day Nigeria. Baptiste cleverly and effectively deploys seemingly minor set pieces to build suspense and tension, presenting readers with an enchanting take on Pan-Africanism. Brooke’s budding interest in art activism and history offers a provocative primer on provenance and on colonizers’ pillaging and theft. A dangerous magical incident involving Uncle Andrew offers a smart metaphor for how anger can become all-consuming. Misty is an admirable and compassionate hero who, with help from her loved ones, ensures that cultural and personal memories are not only preserved but cherished.

A charming and action-packed romp with a powerful historical perspective.