Amari and the night brothers

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New York Times bestseller!

Artemis Fowl meets Men in Black in this exhilarating debut middle grade fantasy, the first in a series filled with #blackgirlmagic. Perfect for fans of Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky, the Percy Jackson series, and Nevermoor.

Amari Peters has never stopped believing her missing brother, Quinton, is alive. Not even when the police told her otherwise, or when she got in trouble for standing up to bullies who said he was gone for good.

So when she finds a ticking briefcase in his closet, containing a nomination for a summer tryout at the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, she’s certain the secretive organization holds the key to locating Quinton—if only she can wrap her head around the idea of magicians, fairies, aliens, and other supernatural creatures all being real.

Now she must compete for a spot against kids who’ve known about magic their whole lives. No matter how hard she tries, Amari can’t seem to escape their intense doubt and scrutiny—especially once her supernaturally enhanced talent is deemed “illegal.” With an evil magician threatening the supernatural world, and her own classmates thinking she’s an enemy, Amari has never felt more alone. But if she doesn’t stick it out and pass the tryouts, she may never find out what happened to Quinton.

Plus don't miss the thrilling sequel, Amari and the Great Game!

Discover More

Also in this Series

  • Amari and the night brothers (Amari Volume 1) Cover
  • Amari and the great game (Amari Volume 2) Cover
  • Amari and the despicable wonders (Amari Volume 3) Cover

Similar Series From Novelist

NoveList provides detailed suggestions for series you might like if you enjoyed this book. Suggestions are based on recommendations from librarians and other contributors.
Readers looking for fast-paced fantasy with rich worldbuilding will appreciate these action-packed series that follow girls who discover that their family members are part of an organization that operates between the supernatural and mundane worlds. -- CJ Connor
Chosen ones who attend magical academies fight evil in both action-packed series full of detailed world-building. -- Autumn Winters
Along with strong world-building and rich detail, both fantasy series have main characters who've only recently discovered their extraordinary powers as a gifted magician (Amari) and an elf (Lost Cities). -- Basia Wilson
Though School for Good and Evil is more strongly influenced by classic fairy tales than Amari, both of these intricately world-built fantasies follow tough young women who discover surprising truths about themselves at a magical school. -- Stephen Ashley
Relatable Black girls who are also gifted magic users star in these action-packed own voices fantasies with extensive world-building. -- Autumn Winters
These series featuring kids of color from magical families will likely entice readers who enjoy fantasy fiction that addresses weighty real-life issues while also delivering whimsical, quick-moving narratives (Park Row) and action-packed missions led by likeable characters (Amari). -- Basia Wilson
These series have the appeal factors action-packed and world-building, and they have the themes "hidden heritage," "academies of magic," and "to the rescue!"; the genres "fantasy fiction" and "african american fiction"; the subjects "supernatural," "magic," and "wizards"; and include the identity "black."
These series have the appeal factors world-building, and they have the themes "hidden heritage," "academies of magic," and "to the rescue!"; the genre "gateway fantasy"; and the subjects "good and evil" and "boarding schools."
These series have the appeal factors action-packed, world-building, and first person narratives, and they have the themes "hidden heritage," "academies of magic," and "to the rescue!"; the genres "fantasy fiction" and "gateway fantasy"; the subjects "magic," "wizards," and "boarding schools"; and characters that are "sympathetic characters."

Similar Titles From NoveList

NoveList provides detailed suggestions for titles you might like if you enjoyed this book. Suggestions are based on recommendations from librarians and other contributors.
Secrets, magic, and mysterious supernatural agencies fuel the story in these action-packed and humorous novels. Artemis is a criminal mastermind and Amari is trying to catch evil magic users, but the two characters are clever and determined. -- Sarah Bean Thompson
With rich world-building, these action-packed, attention-grabbing fantasies star likeable, talented Black girls at magic academies who investigate a disappearance amid sorcerers gone bad. In addition to adolescent concerns around friendship and fitting in, the protagonists deal with racism and bigotry. -- NoveList Advisor
Aria (Dreamslinger), cursed with the Dreamslinger gene, competes in trials to learn how to use her powers, while Amari (Night Brothers) attends a special school to discover her talent and join a fight against an evil magician in these world-building fantasies featuring academies of magic. -- Sarah Polace
Both of these attention-grabbing own voices fantasy series starters follow Black tween girls who join a secret school to hone their special powers. Onyeka can psychokinetically control her hair, while Amari is a natural-born magician. -- Stephen Ashley
Fans of magical realism will enjoy these attention-grabbing books that deal with themes of identity, embracing magic, and the importance of family. Amari is more culturally diverse; Elephant has more mystery elements. -- Alicia Evans
With strong world building, these action-packed, own voices fantasies star supernaturally gifted Black girls who set out to save family members with help from new companions. Both also deal with social justice issues. -- NoveList Advisor
Girls who feel like outsiders find a place in secret magical worlds in these series starters. Morrigan and Amari are brave and strong characters who uncover plenty of secrets and mystery in these inventive fantasy novels. -- Sarah Bean Thompson
Set at a magical school (Lost Cities) and a supernatural summer camp (Night Brothers), these fantasy novels will delight readers who enjoy immersive world-building. -- Basia Wilson
Though the own voices Amari starts in the real world and Twinchantment takes place in a fantasy kingdom from start to finish, both of these culturally diverse books are plot-driven quests driven by the girls' desire to save family members. -- Hannah Gomez
Like Amari (Night Brothers), Nell struggles to avoid trouble at school following the disappearance of her brother in Hither & Nigh. Readers will be engrossed as both main characters develop magical skills that aid their investigations of the kidnappings. -- Basia Wilson
Tweens attending fancy new schools embark on an adventure in a surprising magical world with a quirky cast of friends in these attention-grabbing fantasies. Amari has a bigger focus on details than the more plot-driven Forever Twelve. -- Stephen Ashley
These books will capture the attention of readers who like fantasy novels with magic academies. In Lightning Thief, the son of a Greek god enrolls in a school for demigods, while gifted magician Amari attends a supernatural summer camp. -- Basia Wilson

Similar Authors From NoveList

NoveList provides detailed suggestions for other authors you might want to read if you enjoyed this book. Suggestions are based on recommendations from librarians and other contributors.
Academies of magic; courageous, supremely talented protagonists who embrace their wizardly destinies; loyal companions; plenty of action, humor, and suspense, and richly-developed, parallel worlds, which showcase supernatural creatures, mark the fantasies of J.K. Rowling and B.B. Ralston. Both riveting reads also present racial, class, and other divisions. -- NoveList Advisor
B. B. Alston and Tola Okogwu both write action-packed fantasy series that star courageous, resilient Black tween girls enrolled in magical schools. -- Linda Ludke
These authors' works have the appeal factors action-packed, world-building, and own voices, and they have the genre "fantasy fiction"; and the subjects "supernatural," "missing persons," and "magic."
These authors' works have the appeal factors action-packed and own voices, and they have the genres "fantasy fiction" and "african american fiction"; the subjects "supernatural," "good and evil," and "missing persons"; include the identity "black"; and characters that are "likeable characters."
These authors' works have the appeal factors own voices and first person narratives, and they have the subjects "missing persons," "african americans," and "magic."
These authors' works have the appeal factors action-packed and world-building, and they have the genres "fantasy fiction" and "african american fiction"; the subjects "supernatural," "good and evil," and "magic"; include the identity "black"; and characters that are "likeable characters" and "well-developed characters."
These authors' works have the appeal factors action-packed, and they have the subjects "good and evil," "missing persons," and "wizards"; and characters that are "likeable characters" and "spirited characters."
These authors' works have the appeal factors action-packed, and they have the genre "fantasy fiction"; and the subjects "supernatural," "good and evil," and "magic."
These authors' works have the appeal factors action-packed and world-building, and they have the genre "fantasy fiction"; and the subjects "supernatural," "magic," and "wizards."
These authors' works have the appeal factors action-packed, world-building, and first person narratives, and they have the genre "epic fantasy"; and the subjects "missing persons," "wizards," and "thirteen-year-old girls."
These authors' works have the appeal factors suspenseful and own voices, and they have the genres "fantasy fiction" and "african american fiction"; the subjects "missing persons," "african americans," and "magic"; and include the identity "black."
These authors' works have the appeal factors world-building and own voices, and they have the genre "fantasy fiction"; and the subjects "missing persons," "magic," and "wizards."

Published Reviews

Booklist Review

Ever since her big brother, Quinton, disappeared six months ago, life's been hard for Amari--especially staying out of trouble at her fancy private school. But when a strange delivery arrives, containing a way-too-real vision of Quinton and a world more akin to a fantasy film than real life, it's hard to tell if Amari is dreaming or straight losing her mind. As the vision comes to an end, Amari is left with an invitation to join a summer internship at the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs and a glimmer of hope--crazy or not, this opportunity might be her chance to find Quinton and bring him home! Thrust into a world of magic, technology, and mysticism, the fortitudinous Amari, alongside Elsie, her new best friend and yet-to-shift dragon, leads readers through a plot to save Quinton and his partner, Marie. Amari and Elsie don't face an easy path, however, as new and old issues surrounding fitting in, friendship, and loyalty arise, stirring feelings of mistrust and self-doubt. Fast-paced adventure and cutthroat pre-adolescent contempt make for a delightfully challenging journey here, particularly considering the ways that Alston frames Amari's racial and economic experiences as a Black girl as the root of her strong-willed nature and spirit of integrity. It's a good thing this book is the first of a series, because readers will be sorely disappointed when it ends.

From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
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Publisher's Weekly Review

Following the mysterious disappearance of her beloved big brother, Quinton, 13-year-old Amari Peters is offered a spot in a summer camp run by the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, a secret agency that forms the "link between the known world and what is hidden." Learning that Quinton was one of the Bureau's top agents, Amari vows to follow in his footsteps in order to discover his fate. But Amari's initiation reveals that she's a natural-born magician, which the Bureau considers rare and dangerous. Given this status, Amari must dispel the prejudices against magicians while passing a series of extremely competitive trials to join the exclusive Department of Supernatural Investigations. But with a terrifying foe lurking in the shadows, Amari's career may be cut short. In this thrilling debut, Alston thrusts his intrepid heroine into a setting packed with magic, mythical creatures, and danger. Amari, a Black girl with limited means, confronts privilege and prejudice even while delving into a world of wonder, humor, and adventure, making this a sure-to-please winner. Ages 8--12. Agent: Gemma Cooper, the Bent Agency. (Jan.)

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School Library Journal Review

Gr 3--7--Amari Peters is a young Black girl who believes her brother Quinton is alive, even if no one else does. Everything is going wrong and she just got expelled from school, but something exciting is about to happen. Amari, as recommended by her brother, joins a summer camp at the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs. She starts to learn a special skill all her own, and discovers magical creatures exist (fairies, aliens, and magicians, to name a few) that the Bureau must protect from average people. Readers follow Amari as she navigates a new magical world, hones her skills, and searches for her brother who was attempting to track down the Night Brothers--a mysterious band of magical criminals. This series debut is sure to be a hit with late elementary students and middle graders who are fans of "Harry Potter," "Percy Jackson," and the Men in Black movies. There are a lot of diverse characters who will be relatable to all kids. Amari is tough, smart, kind, and very likeable. The plot doesn't shy away from depictions of racism and discrimination, which may provide necessary, thoughtful discussion topics for classrooms and families. VERDICT This story is action-packed with no fluff; a magical world readers will want to visit, blended with contemporary themes. An excellent middle grade fantasy that will attract an immediate fan base and leave kids eager for more.--Maeve Dodds, Charlotte Mecklenburg Lib., NC

(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
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Horn Book Review

Quinton Peters has been missing for six months -- no matter what anybody says, his sister Amari knows he's still alive -- and his top-secret job is the reason he's been away. Sure enough, Amari discovers that Quinton has arranged an interview for her to join the same line of work, which turns out to be the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs. Plunged into a parallel magical world, Amari must do her best to learn and succeed in this new reality. Her journey becomes more complicated when her aptitude test reveals her to be a Magician, possessing a level of magic deemed dangerous -- and illegal. Some of the scrutiny Amari faces mirrors her non-magic life ("It's kind of like how being a Black kid from the projects makes Mr. Jensen feel the need to watch me extra close every time I come in his store. Or how surprised my scholarship interviewers were that I could speak so well"). Amari has to fight to save her brother and their world -- with help from her roommate Elsie (an empathic were-dragon who will probably not eat her), an unlikely ally, and by summoning her own courage, which may be all the magic she needs. The story introduces a world of enchantment, danger, excitement, and humor. While many parallels can be drawn between the protagonist and a certain boy wizard, readers will root for Amari's own unique determination and wit. Eboni Njoku January/February 2021 p.97(c) Copyright 2021. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

(c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
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Kirkus Book Review

A 13-year-old girl learns she's an all-powerful magician and faces trials as she seeks her missing brother. Amari Peters is tired--tired of being belittled and dismissed at her rich private school, where she is bullied for being poor and Black. On the last day of school--fueled by emotions connected to her brother Quinton's disappearance--Amari loses her cool, costing her the scholarship she needs. Next, a mysterious man shows up with news that Quinton has sent her a Broaden Your Horizons kit. Inside she finds items that open her eyes to a secret supernatural world, one that must remain hidden because people's fear of things they don't understand too often turns into hatred. Amari is invited to a magical training camp hosted by the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, which her mom believes is the same leadership program Quinton attended that helped him gain full-ride scholarships to Ivy League colleges. There, she discovers that she's a magician, with powers that are illegal. Amari's single-minded intent on finding Quinton leads her on the path to becoming a Junior Agent. With the help of those she meets along the way, Amari makes shocking discoveries and finds the power to overcome. The author weaves magical whimsy with honest, realistically portrayed circumstances, allowing Amari's literal #BlackGirlMagic to shine even when she doesn't believe in herself. This timely, energetic, first-person narrative moves quickly with clear descriptions, a thrilling buildup, and strong messages about profiling. An impressive debut series opener. (Fantasy. 9-12) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
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Booklist Reviews

*Starred Review* Ever since her big brother, Quinton, disappeared six months ago, life's been hard for Amari—especially staying out of trouble at her fancy private school. But when a strange delivery arrives, containing a way-too-real vision of Quinton and a world more akin to a fantasy film than real life, it's hard to tell if Amari is dreaming or straight losing her mind. As the vision comes to an end, Amari is left with an invitation to join a summer internship at the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs and a glimmer of hope—crazy or not, this opportunity might be her chance to find Quinton and bring him home! Thrust into a world of magic, technology, and mysticism, the fortitudinous Amari, alongside Elsie, her new best friend and yet-to-shift dragon, leads readers through a plot to save Quinton and his partner, Marie. Amari and Elsie don't face an easy path, however, as new and old issues surrounding fitting in, friendship, and loyalty arise, stirring feelings of mistrust and self-doubt. Fast-paced adventure and cutthroat pre-adolescent contempt make for a delightfully challenging journey here, particularly considering the ways that Alston frames Amari's racial and economic experiences as a Black girl as the root of her strong-willed nature and spirit of integrity. It's a good thing this book is the first of a series, because readers will be sorely disappointed when it ends. Grades 3-7. Copyright 2020 Booklist Reviews.

Copyright 2020 Booklist Reviews.
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Publishers Weekly Reviews

Following the mysterious disappearance of her beloved big brother, Quinton, 13-year-old Amari Peters is offered a spot in a summer camp run by the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, a secret agency that forms the "link between the known world and what is hidden." Learning that Quinton was one of the Bureau's top agents, Amari vows to follow in his footsteps in order to discover his fate. But Amari's initiation reveals that she's a natural-born magician, which the Bureau considers rare and dangerous. Given this status, Amari must dispel the prejudices against magicians while passing a series of extremely competitive trials to join the exclusive Department of Supernatural Investigations. But with a terrifying foe lurking in the shadows, Amari's career may be cut short. In this thrilling debut, Alston thrusts his intrepid heroine into a setting packed with magic, mythical creatures, and danger. Amari, a Black girl with limited means, confronts privilege and prejudice even while delving into a world of wonder, humor, and adventure, making this a sure-to-please winner. Ages 8–12. Agent: Gemma Cooper, the Bent Agency. (Jan.)

Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly.

Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly.
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School Library Journal Reviews

Gr 3–7—Amari Peters is a young Black girl who believes her brother Quinton is alive, even if no one else does. Everything is going wrong and she just got expelled from school, but something exciting is about to happen. Amari, as recommended by her brother, joins a summer camp at the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs. She starts to learn a special skill all her own, and discovers magical creatures exist (fairies, aliens, and magicians, to name a few) that the Bureau must protect from average people. Readers follow Amari as she navigates a new magical world, hones her skills, and searches for her brother who was attempting to track down the Night Brothers—a mysterious band of magical criminals. This series debut is sure to be a hit with late elementary students and middle graders who are fans of "Harry Potter," "Percy Jackson," and the Men in Black movies. There are a lot of diverse characters who will be relatable to all kids. Amari is tough, smart, kind, and very likeable. The plot doesn't shy away from depictions of racism and discrimination, which may provide necessary, thoughtful discussion topics for classrooms and families. VERDICT This story is action-packed with no fluff; a magical world readers will want to visit, blended with contemporary themes. An excellent middle grade fantasy that will attract an immediate fan base and leave kids eager for more.—Maeve Dodds, Charlotte Mecklenburg Lib., NC

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal.

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal.
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