Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms

Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms was absolutely so much fun. Jamar J. Perry delivered a very heart felt and personal middle grade debut. At the heart of this story it is all about family, whether that be by blood or found. Cameron Battle at the start has lost both his parents and lives with his Grandma. Him and his best friend Zion bring Aliyah into their circle and from there the big story takes form.Cameron is a main character I want to root for. At such a young age he has overcome so much but their is still a part of him that is not completely whole. So in this story it is really about Cameron trying to come to terms with a past that is haunting him, so that he may make the most of his present and future. Along the way though he has friends like Zion and Aliyah to guide him. I also love how much this is inspired by African myths and folklore, especially Nigeria. You can feel the authenticity of it all in the way Jamar J. Perry writes.I would say where this book stumbles, at least for me, is in the back half of this book. The beginning, up until I would say to the last like 70ish pages, is really great. The setup is strong, the plot is clear, and the characters have a central focus. Then I feel like the ending is just a tad rushed and choppy. The ending could have used a couple more pages just to breathe, but other then that this book is solid.I am super happy I found this book and added it to my radar. As with my last read, The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna, I see so much great potential in Jamar J. Perry. I am so looking forward to the rest of this series, which I believe is going to be a duology.

Cameron Battle is the hero we NEED. I so enjoyed following him and his friends through this journey, especially Zion!!! This book broke my heart and rebuilt it, and the laughs are definitely there.I'd recommend this book to readers of all ages. Seriously. Don't wait to pick up this book and enter the world of Chidani because I promise this is unlike any adventure you've ever read. I cannot wait for the next book!

I loved everything about this story. Weaving of Igbo people, the tales of the enslave are truly beautiful. This coming of age story talks about black children from different walks of life. Definitely gonna share this with my kids.

Great book.