Kiah Thomas's debut novel, "The Callers," is a compelling middle grade fantasy that masterfully blends a thrilling adventure with profound social commentary. The story centers on Quin, a boy living in Elipsom, a world where the ability to 'Call' or summon objects is highly valued. Quin, despite his family's esteemed history of Callers, struggles with this gift, leading to feelings of inadequacy and even a moment of family-orchestrated cheating. However, his unique inability to Call leads him to accidentally make objects disappear, revealing a shocking truth: the items 'Called' into Elipsom are not conjured, but stolen from a parallel world, leaving its inhabitants impoverished and exploited. Quin must then choose between his family's legacy and fighting for justice alongside Allie, a girl determined to stop this unfair practice.
The book handles sensitive topics like consumerism, colonialism, and the exploitation of natural resources with remarkable depth for a middle grade audience. It does so through a fantastical lens, making these complex issues accessible and thought-provoking without being didactic. The emotional arc is one of self-discovery and moral awakening, starting with Quin's personal struggle with self-worth and evolving into a courageous stand for what is right, even when it means challenging his own family and society. The narrative is fast-paced and engaging, ensuring that readers remain invested in Quin's journey.
This book is specifically for children aged 8-12 who enjoy immersive fantasy adventures but are also ready to engage with deeper themes. It's ideal for a child who loves world-building and magic but is also beginning to ask questions about fairness, justice, and societal structures. A parent might reach for this book when their child is looking for a fantasy story with substance, or when they want to open conversations about ethical consumption, global inequality, or standing up for one's beliefs. Parents should be prepared to discuss the moral dilemmas presented, particularly the implications of the 'Calling' system and Quin's difficult choice. Younger readers (8-9) will be drawn to the adventure and magic, while older readers (10-12) will appreciate the nuanced exploration of the ethical questions. What sets this book apart is its ability to weave such heavy, real-world issues into a captivating fantasy narrative, making them relatable and prompting critical thinking without sacrificing the joy of a good story. While the publisher lists an age range of 4-11, the complexity of the themes and the chapter book format make it most suitable for independent readers aged 8 and up, or as a read-aloud for mature 7-year-olds with parental guidance on the deeper concepts.
