Amari and the Night Brothers By B.B. Alston

Author: B.B. Alston

Genre: Fantasy

Recommended Ages: 8-13 Grades 4 and up; Perfect for students ready for exciting fantasy with deeper themes.

Summary: (Spoiler-free)

Amari Peters is an ordinary girl with extraordinary determination—especially after her older brother, Quinton, mysteriously disappears. When Amari discovers a ticking briefcase in his closet, she learns he was part of the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, a hidden world of magic, creatures, and unbelievable secrets. Amari gets the chance to join the Bureau’s summer training program, but she quickly realizes the magical world holds biases and dangers of its own.

To find Quinton, Amari must pass her evaluations, control her powerful (and controversial) magic, outsmart enemies, and discover who she truly is—no matter what others expect of her.

My Thoughts:

This book is pure magic. B.B. Alston creates a world that feels as alive and inventive as Harry Potter, but with the heart, humor, and courage that make Amari unforgettable. I love that she’s brave, stubborn, vulnerable, and endlessly determined—kids will see themselves in her whether they are fantasy lovers or brand-new to the genre.

As a future elementary school librarian, I appreciate how Alston balances a fast-moving fantasy plot with real-world issues: bias, belonging, self-doubt, and the pressure to prove yourself. Amari’s journey shows young readers that strength doesn’t come from fitting in—it comes from embracing what makes you different. This book is a gift for kids who need a fierce, uplifting role model.

Themes:

• Courage & Self-Discovery

• Belonging vs. Exclusion

• Power, Voice & Agency

• Prejudice in Magical Worlds

• Friendship & Loyalty

• Perseverance in the Face of Doubt

• Family & Sibling Love

Why Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston is Important for Diversity and Inclusion:

Amari and the Night Brothers stands out as a fantasy novel where representation is not an afterthought—it’s central. B.B. Alston, a Black author, brings intentionality and authenticity to Amari’s experiences as a Black girl navigating a magical world that mirrors real-world biases. The story explores racism, classism, and assumptions about who is “worthy,” all within an accessible fantasy framework.

For Black readers, Amari is a rare and empowering heroine: powerful, complex, and fully realized. For all readers, the book provides a window into how bias affects confidence, opportunity, and safety—even in imaginary worlds. Inclusive fantasy like this encourages kids to question unfair systems and believe in their own strength, no matter what labels others place on them.

Library Integration:

Grades 4–7

• World-Building Activity: Students design their own magical department within the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs.

• Identity & Confidence Discussion: How does Amari’s self-belief change over the story?

• Bias in Fantasy Conversation: Explore how magical worlds can reflect real-world issues.

• Character Arcs: Map Amari’s growth as she discovers her strengths.

• Fantasy Pairings: Pair with Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky or The Marvellers.

Library Programming

• “Magic in the Stacks” Display: Showcase fantasy books with diverse heroes.

• Fantasy Costume Day: Invite kids to create a Bureau ID badge.

• Adventure Book Club: This title makes a fantastic read-aloud for upper-elementary.

Librarian Reflection:

Amari is the type of hero kids remember forever. She shows readers that courage isn’t about perfection—it’s about standing firm when others doubt you. As librarians, our shelves should reflect heroes of all backgrounds, especially those whose stories remind children they are powerful, capable, and loved. Amari and the Night Brothers is a book I can’t wait to hand to students looking for adventure, magic, and a character who refuses to shrink herself for anyone.

*Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston