Neverwraith

A teen discovers his link to a mystical West African island nation--and learns that he must use his newly discovered superpowers to fight for it. When Yasir Salah's grandmother sends him from Atlanta to live with his uncle in a small Georgia town for reasons that are puzzlingly left unspecified, he must deal with his growing anger issues as well as mysterious, malicious forces that are hunting him. At school, he encounters violent bullies but also meets the beautiful Zahra, with whom he immediately shares an intense and magical connection. Yasir's physical strength and senses start growing beyond normal human abilities, and he discovers more about his past and connection to the Island Republic of Kindara, an ancient society coursing with spiritual and supernatural energy. He must try to manage his abilities, deal with his tormentors, and maintain his new relationship with Zahra--all while acclimating to his newfound identity as a magical (and hunted) protector of his sacred homeland. While fans of superhero adventures will enjoy the story's worldbuilding and the hearty action sequences, the book is let down by lengthy exposition that often impedes the story's forward momentum. Key characters are Black, and the supporting cast is ethnically diverse; the contemporary, colloquial language is refreshing and inviting. A promising adventure infused with African-inspired supernatural lore that gets bogged down in excessive detail. (Paranormal. 14-18) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.