Review Detail

ZORA AND ME: THE SUMMONER transports the reader to Eatonville, the first incorporated Black township in Florida, in the early 1900s. Zora and Carrie are best friends and the town is a great place to be - for the most part. The book begins with a white mob's search for a "fugitive" named Terrace Side, who they think may have headed to Eatonville. The town is basically powerless to stop them, and the tension and fear is clear.

Terrace is ultimately murdered, and this tragedy is followed soon by another - the grave robbing of Chester Cools and then a mysterious illness that raises questions of zombies and voodoo. Zora and Carrie seem to be in the heart of it all, bringing their story to life.

What I loved: This book handles some big themes in a way that is perfect for a middle grade audience. The era is captured well, and the racism and dangers come to life through Zora and Carrie's story. There is also the theme of the use of Black individuals for medical schools and related experimentation that is presented appropriately - their bodies are taken because they are seen as less than, and there is nothing the people left behind can do about it. It is a horrible but real practice. These themes are all woven together in a story that comes to life for the middle grade audience through the eyes of Carrie and Zora.

Final verdict: ZORA AND ME: THE SUMMONER is a historical fiction middle grade read that touches on important themes while also engaging young readers. Although this is the third in a trilogy, it could be read as a stand-alone, though they would all be worth reading. Recommend for children who enjoy mystery and light suspense reads.