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INTERMEDIATE FICTION
Ahmed, Samira

Amira & Hamza: The War to Save the Worlds

368 pp. | Little | September, 2021 | Trade ISBN 978-0-316-54046-9 $16.99 | Ebook ISBN 978-0-316-54049-0
(2) 4-6 Twelve-year-old Amira and her younger brother Hamza, Muslim Indian American siblings in Chicago, are the heroes of this suspenseful, action-packed adventure filled with jinn, ghuls, devs, and other supernatural creatures from Islamic folklore. When the children disturb an ancient artifact in a museum exhibit, two jinn appear, informing them that they are "chosen ones" needed for a serious mission. They must save Earth and Qaf (the jinn homeland) from Ifrit, a "terrible and cruel dev" intent on destroying both worlds. This is a refreshingly different take on the kids-must-save-the-world story in that Amira and Hamza are the most anxious, reluctant, and nerdy heroes ever. Constant clashes between the bickering siblings provide comic relief, in contrast with the seriousness of the task at hand. Dangerous encounters with monstrous foes challenge the two to believe in themselves and work together to fulfill their mission. Fantasy-adventure fans will have a hard time putting down this fast-paced and engaging tale. Author's note and glossary not seen.
Reviewer: Julie Hakim Azzam | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2021

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