Children of Blood and Bone
Here's what we found in Children of Blood and Bone. Every family is different — get a report that reflects yours.
Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to Children of Blood and Bone
Tomi Adeyemi's "Children of Blood and Bone" is the first installment in the young adult fantasy trilogy, Legacy of Orïsha, drawing inspiration from West African mythology and Yoruba culture. The narrative follows Zélie Adebola, a diviner whose people, the maji, had their magic stripped away and were brutally suppressed by the ruthless King Saran. Zélie embarks on a perilous quest to restore magic to Orïsha, aided by the rogue Princess Amari and pursued by Prince Inan. The story explores profound themes of oppression, systemic racism, social justice, and identity, set against a backdrop of magical conflict and political intrigue. Intended for older young adult readers, the book contains mature content, including significant violence and complex moral dilemmas.
Things to Consider
Violence
The book contains frequent and often graphic depictions of violence, including battles, combat, and death. Characters face threats of slavery and sexual harm, and participate in dangerous, life-or-death scenarios. The intensity of violence reportedly escalates in later installments.
The narrative features 'lots of battles, sometimes involving civilians' with 'pretty graphic descriptions of combat and death.' Zélie and her allies are forced to fight in a 'gladiator arena style match where only the winners come out alive.' There are also references to 'sexual assault/near rape' and 'torture.'
Witchcraft & Occult
Witchcraft and occult practices are fundamental to the world and plot. The story revolves around characters who wield various forms of magic, drawing power from gods and interacting with spirits. This includes 'reaper magic' and 'blood magic.'
Scary & Intense Content
The book contains highly intense and potentially frightening content, including graphic violence, torture, and life-threatening situations. The themes of oppression and persecution contribute to a pervasive sense of dread and danger for the protagonists.
Disrespect & Rebellion
Disrespect and rebellion are central themes, as the protagonists actively defy and fight against an oppressive monarchy. Main characters exhibit strong will, defiance, and sometimes selfish or disrespectful behavior towards both antagonists and allies in their quest for freedom.
Would these 4 concerns matter to your family?
Get a report based on your values — not generic ratings.
Additional Context
Best For Ages
Ages 14-15 and up. The book is recommended for this age range due to its mature themes, including graphic violence, implied sexual content, strong emotional intensity, and allegorical discussions of oppression and racism. Some reviewers equate its content to an 'R' rated movie, suggesting it is not suitable for younger teens.
Good to Know
The series intensifies in later installments, particularly concerning character conflicts and moral ambiguities. Reviews of "Children of Virtue and Vengeance" highlight an escalation in violence and problematic character arcs, such as Princess Amari's descent into morally questionable actions for power. The romance subplot across the series often receives criticism for being rushed or underdeveloped. The book effectively uses fantasy elements to explore real-world issues of racism and oppression.
What are you reading next?
Screen any title in seconds — even ones no one else has reviewed.
No credit card required — join hundreds of families