Black Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse

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I’m not usually a huge fan of fantasy novels. I find our world complicated enough and wrapping my brain around an entirely new one is overwhelming. Black Sun changed my mind, and I’m waiting eagerly for the sequel.

This book is a beautiful story that takes inspiration from ancient civilizations and beliefs. Roanhorse explores relationships, faith, the power of the natural world, disabilities, and the idea of destiny throughout the book. I read it in 2 days and couldn’t put it down. 

It’s unique, it’s unpredictable, and it also subtly connects to so many stereotypes and struggles of our real world. The Teek people drew comparisons with the Indigenous peoples of Turtle Island, from their treatment by others in the nation to the fact that Teek actually means “the people.” 

One core character's core purpose is destruction. He was built as a result of faith - but is that all that matters? One core character just wants have fun - but is she ready for more? The way that the characters struggle with hierarchies and political power is inevitable yet intriguing, and the world building is so smooth.

I don’t necessarily want to compare the two, but if you liked the ACOTAR series, you will love this.

Reading Journal Questions

• Which character did you find yourself relating to the most?

• How did you feel about the gender representations and relationships in the novel?

• Did the book feel unique to you in regards to the usual fantasy novel?

• How did the book address disabilities?