Cameron Battle grew up reading The Book of Chidani, cherishing stories about the fabled kingdom that cut itself off from the world to save the Igbo people from danger. Passed down over generations, the Book is Cameron’s only connection to his parents who disappeared one fateful night, two years ago.
Ever since that night, his grandmother has kept the Book locked away, but it calls to Cameron. When he and his best friends Zion and Aliyah decide to open it again, they are magically transported to Chidani. Instead of a land of beauty and wonder, they find a kingdom in extreme danger, as the Queen’s sister seeks to destroy the barrier between worlds. The people of Chidani have been waiting for the last Descendant to return and save them… is Cameron ready to be the hero they need?
Inspired by West African and Igbo mythology, this adventurous middle-grade fantasy debut celebrates the triumphs and challenges of a boy finding his true path to greatness. It’s the perfect read for fans of Aru Shah and Tristan Strong.
Ever since I first read the Percy Jackson series, I’ve always been fascinated by fantasy novels that are heavily inspired by mythology. But while Percy Jackson was influenced by Greek mythology, it’s not often you come across a children’s fantasy novel inspired by West African culture. And that’s exactly what you get in Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms.
After studying the history of traditional and Black masculinity in America, Perry used this knowledge as inspiration for his novel. When writing, Perry said his aim is to ‘engage reluctant readers who needed to understand that they were magic, that they could also have joy, that they could be vulnerable and emotional, that they could be the hero in their own stories’. He’s certainly done that here. In Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms, Perry has crafted a fantastic tale that shows Black kids that not only are they magical, but they are also capable of being heroes.
In Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms, Perry has created a protagonist that many kids will relate to. Cameron deals with a lot during the novel, with the pressure of saving Chidani weighing heavily on him. Yet in spite of this pressure, Cameron soldiers on and perseveres, an important lesson for readers of all ages.
Filled to the brim with magic, adventure and plenty of representation, Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms is a fantastic journey into West African history and legends. With a brave cast of young heroes and a plot to reel you in.
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