21 magical science fiction and fantasy books to read in summer 2021
By Lacy Baugher
Summer 2021 release: A Chorus Rises – Bethany C. Morrow
Though A Chorus Rises is described as a story that is merely set in the same world as A Song Below Water, it’s much more of a companion piece. And those who didn’t read that book should probably skip this one until they do.
A Chorus Rises follows the story of Naema who is Eloko, a person who’s gifted with a song that woos anyone who hears it. And everyone loves her–until she’s cast as the villain who exposed a Siren to the whole world. (This would be how the story connects to the events of A Song Below Water, though this story will shed new light on her behavior and motivations there.)
Frustrated with a lack of empathy at home, Naema heads to a family reunion in the Southwest to recuperate and recharge. But while she’s away she discovers the importance of her own voice – and realizes the ways she could use her own platform for good, to protect others rather than bring them down.
Morrow’s story deftly explores the ways that society often demands that Black women compete against one another to succeed rather than lift each other up, and feels incredibly necessary and timely as a result.
The official synopsis offers more details about the story.
"Teen influencer Naema Bradshaw has it all: she’s famous, privileged, has “the good hair”— and she’s an Eloko, a person who’s gifted with a song that woos anyone who hears it. Everyone loves her — well, until she’s cast as the awful person who exposed Tavia’s secret siren powers. Now, she’s being dragged by the media. No one understands her side: not her boyfriend, not her friends, nor her Eloko community. But Naema knows the truth and is determined to build herself back up — no matter what. When a new, flourishing segment of Naema’s online supporters start targeting black girls, however, Naema must discover the true purpose of her magical voice."
A Chorus Rises is available on June 1.