Locus Magazine Looks at Mage of Fools

“Mage of Fools is one of those poetic science fiction narratives that pulls readers into a unique world—one Bacon fills with myths, legends, memories, and African elements. However, it’s also the kind of book that feels prescient, like a warning wrapped in a story, which is what some of the best fables are. It’s impossible to put the book down and then read about books getting banned and not see that while Bacon is clearly writing science fiction that takes place in a dystopian future, some of the problems she tackles have deep roots in both contemporary and historical problems. Because of this, the novel becomes more than a story about a mother figuring out how to use the secrets she learns to get her children back; it becomes a call to action that warns readers we all might end up like Jasmin if we don’t pay attention to the slow creeping of dystopian elements into our everyday lives.

While Mage of Fools is a hybrid that’s as much science fiction and dystopian fiction as it is a tale of survival and a celebration of love, what makes it a truly enjoyable and unique reading experience is Bacon’s stylish prose.” – Gabino Iglesias