Loved ‘Children of Blood and Bone’? Add these 8 Black fantasy books to your reading list

 If the new ‘Children of Blood and Bone’ trailer has you craving more magic, gods, and African-inspired worlds, start with these novels.

Before diving into the world of Orïsha on the big screen in January 2027, fans can prepare for their journey through the fictional Yoruba-inspired world in the pages of Temi Adeyemi’s novel “Children of Blood and Bone.” In addition to the book which inspired the upcoming film starring Thuso Mbedu, Damson Idris, Amandla Stenberg, Tosin Cole, Cynthia Erivo, Regina King, and more, the “Orïsha” book series also includes two other novels: “Children of Virtue and Vengeance” and “Children of Anguish and Anarchy.” 

However, beyond reading the books that inspired the movie, if the recent chatter about “Children of Blood and Bones” and “Black Panther 3” has you itching to explore Black sci-fi and fantasy novels inspired by African cultures and mythologies, here are 8 books by Black authors that’ll scratch that itch: 

“Raybearer” by Jordan Ifueko 

Tarisai is chosen to join the Crown Prince’s council, but a dangerous command from her mother threatens her newfound family. Inspired by West African traditions, this fantasy explores power, destiny and belonging.

“The Gilded Ones” by Namina Forna 

After Deka’s blood runs gold during a coming-of-age ritual, she’s branded an outcast and forced into an army of girls with extraordinary abilities. In “The Gilded Ones” Forna pens a West Africa-inspired fantasy about sisterhood, resistance and survival.

“Blood Scion” by Deborah Falaye

Sloane is secretly descended from the Orisha gods and can wield powerful blood and fire magic. Forced into the army hunting her own people, the book follows her as she plots to take down the regime from within.

“Somadina” by Akwaeke Emezi

When Somadina’s twin brother disappears, she enters a mystical world to find him, and discovers powers of her own. Drawing from Igbo mythology, the novel explores grief, identity and family.

“Goldenborn” by Ama Ofosua Lieb

Akoma has spent years investigating magical crimes while searching for a way to save her father. When a murder leads her to Anansi and the world of Ghanaian mythology, she discovers her own connection to ancient magic.

“Akata Witch” by Nnedi Okorafor

After discovering she has magical abilities, Nigerian-American teen Sunny is introduced to a secret supernatural world in Nigeria. With Nigerian mythology at its core, this coming-of-age fantasy is about friendship, identity and finding your power.

“The Famished Road” by Ben Okri

Azaro is an “abiku,” a spirit child caught between the worlds of the living and the dead. Set in postcolonial Nigeria, Ben Okri’s acclaimed novel blends Yoruba spirituality, political turmoil and magical realism into a haunting story about family, poverty and survival.

“Binti” by Nnedi Okorafor

Binti becomes the first member of her Himba people to attend the prestigious Oomza University, but her journey through space takes a terrifying turn when an alien group attacks the school. Blending African culture with science fiction, this novella explores identity, tradition, peace and finding your place in the universe