[BWF] A Song Below Water by Bethany C. Morrow - 4 stars

[Jen K]

Tavia is a typical teenager trying to figure out boys, mean girls and parents that don't understand but she is also a siren in a society that fears sirens. It doesn't help that all sirens are black girls and women. Struggling to become herself and hide herself, her one bright spot is her BFF and "sister" Effie. Effie is similarly struggling to figure out who she is while looking for a missing father. When a violent boyfriend is set free after killing his girlfriend because she was a siren, it sets in motion the push that both girls need better find themselves and their strengths.

I really appreciate how fantasy can take on real life issues and push them a bit farther to explore injustice and bias. Many fear a siren even when so few have committed any crime but the fear is the potential of these black women. There was definitely more than enough teenage angst and unnecessary miscommunication but I appreciated the girls coming of age and I really LOVED the gargoyle. If only we could all have a gargoyle to watch over us.

BWF Tenacious Trailblazers: Letter S bonus, Authors of Color x 33

[NancyJ]

Jen K wrote: "Tavia is a typical teenager trying to figure out boys, mean girls and parents that don't understand but she is also a siren in a society that fears sirens. It doesn't help that all sirens are black..."

The title and cover of this always catch my attention. I'm so glad to see your review. I look forward to reading this when I land on the mermaid tag, if not sooner. Thanks for mentioning the gargoyles! We have a couple of high ledges in our house, and my husband tucked a couple up there for fun (and to keep an eye on us). The one I can see is very cute.

[Jen K]

It is definitely YA but had more depth than I expected and I did enjoy. The gargoyle is a my favorite though! So fun that you have on your house!