One-line Summary:

In “Legendborn,” a captivating young adult fantasy novel by Tracy Deonn, a teenage girl named Bree Matthews discovers a hidden world of magic, secrets, and ancient legends while attending a prestigious college, unraveling the truth about her mother’s death and her own extraordinary abilities.

Discovering a Hidden World:

Bree Matthews, a sixteen-year-old Black girl, is still grieving the loss of her mother when she enrolls in a residential program for gifted students at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. However, her plans for a quiet summer are shattered when she witnesses a magical attack on her first night on campus. Determined to uncover the truth behind her mother’s mysterious death, Bree delves into the world of the Legendborn, a secret society of descendants of King Arthur’s knights who hunt dangerous magical creatures.

As Bree navigates this hidden world, she forms an unlikely alliance with Nick Davis, a fellow student who seems to know more about the Legendborn than he lets on. Together, they uncover a web of secrets, including the truth about Bree’s own heritage and her unique magical abilities. As she trains to become a member of the Legendborn, Bree must confront her own fears, confront the racism and discrimination within the society, and face the ultimate challenge of saving the world from a powerful enemy.

Themes of Identity and Grief:

“Legendborn” explores themes of identity and grief through the lens of a young Black protagonist. Bree’s journey is not only about discovering her magical abilities but also about coming to terms with her mother’s death and her own place in the world. As she learns more about her heritage and the legacy of the Legendborn, Bree grapples with questions of belonging and the complexities of her racial identity. Tracy Deonn skillfully weaves these themes into the narrative, providing a thought-provoking exploration of race, power, and self-discovery.

The Power of Friendship and Allies:

Throughout the novel, Bree forms deep connections with a diverse group of friends and allies who support her in her quest. From Selwyn Kane, a charismatic and enigmatic member of the Legendborn, to Alice, a brilliant hacker with a sharp wit, each character brings their own unique strengths to the table. Together, they navigate the challenges of the magical world, confront their own fears and prejudices, and ultimately stand united against a common enemy. The power of friendship and the importance of allyship are central themes in “Legendborn,” highlighting the strength that comes from diverse perspectives and shared goals.

Key Takeaways:

• Tracy Deonn’s “Legendborn” is a captivating young adult fantasy novel that explores themes of identity, grief, and the power of friendship.
• The story follows Bree Matthews as she uncovers a hidden world of magic, secrets, and ancient legends while attending a prestigious college.
• Bree’s journey is not only about discovering her magical abilities but also about coming to terms with her mother’s death and her own place in the world.
• The novel delves into the complexities of racial identity and addresses issues of racism and discrimination within the magical society.
• “Legendborn” emphasizes the importance of friendship and allyship, showcasing the strength that comes from diverse perspectives and shared goals.

“We are the powerful ones, and we don’t have to be afraid.”

In “Legendborn,” Tracy Deonn crafts a thrilling and thought-provoking tale that combines elements of Arthurian legend with contemporary issues of race and identity. Through Bree’s journey of self-discovery, readers are invited to explore themes of grief, power, and the importance of standing up against injustice. With its rich world-building, diverse cast of characters, and compelling storyline, “Legendborn” is a must-read for fans of fantasy and those seeking stories that challenge and inspire.