Parents' Guide to

A Song of Wraiths and Ruin

By Michael Berry, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 13+

West African folklore powers lively fantasy debut.

Book Roseanne A. Brown Fantasy 2020
A Song of Wraiths and Ruin Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Community Reviews

See all
age 13+

Based on 1 parent review

Thankfulmom
Thankfulmom Parent of 14-year-old
February 2, 2022
age 13+

Thoroughly Enjoyable

This book alternates perspectives between the two main characters. The story follows each of them as individuals struggling to rectify their current situations. Their paths quickly intertwine because in order to fix each of their problems they must kill the other. There are many twists and turns which keeps this story interesting all the way through. There is an animal sacrifice which may be a difficult 2 paragraphs but can be skipped since they announce it's going to happen. Overall, great story which is the first of a duology.
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

As A SONG OF WRAITHS AND RUIN opens, Princess Karina wants to leave her city for good during the festival of Solstasia, but she's physically restrained by a magical barrier. When her mother the Sultana is assassinated, Karina plans to resurrect her through dark magic and then escape the city. Meanwhile, street boy Malik loses his little sister to a spirit who demands that he kill Karina before the festival ends. Karina and Malik encounter each other in disguise and are attracted to each other. But how will they survive mutinous advisers and malevolent spirits?

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (1 ):

Novels inspired by African folklore are growing in popularity, and this first half of a fantasy duology makes the most of its magical setting. A Song of Wraiths and Ruin introduces readers to two well-constructed teen main character who are ready to do almost anything to restore their fractured families. Karina is more than spoiled royalty -- she's ready to take on all comers. Malik is more careful, but a deal with a devil usually doesn't end well. Fans of Tomi Adeyemi and Sabaa Tahir are likely to appreciate the book's action scenes, the unpredictable plot twists, and the sharp dialogue. A Song of Wraiths and Ruin transports readers to a vividly rendered world of magic.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how A Song of Wraiths and Ruin uses West African mythology to tell its story. Were you familiar with African traditions before reading this book?

  • Stories about deals with a devil are common. Why are they popular? Who usually wins in a deal with the devil?

  • Why is the concept of family so important to Karina and Malik? Does their loyalty blind them to other realities?

Book Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

See all recommended book lists

Related Topics

Want suggestions based on your streaming services? Get personalized recommendations

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate