Note: I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. ( )

This is a book where the deeper truth is shown more clearly in a fictional account.

I loved the imagery and the overlay of history.

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A super racist all white magic school lets in their first black mage and things go awry. If you want to hear all my thoughts on this book, then stay tuned for my August 2020 Wrap Up Vlog coming soon to my YouTube channel called Completely Melanie. ( )

Hmmm, I get the references (from the dumb stereotypes, Tom Token, his magical sidekick, Jim Crow, Headmaster Lynch, the KKK as evil magicians, etc), but I’m not feeling them. KKK hoods just turn my stomach, but that’s just me. On the other hand, the animesque art style is cool, sleek and conveys whatever it wants to very well. For example, the scene when Jim gets hit is a nice showcase of color and expression. The artwork and Tom’s finishing move (loved it!) are the real highlights.

The pacing here is fast with tons of magic battles, but I would’ve preferred more time with Tom in the white space. he barely got a chance to talk to Summer or any of the other black souls.

I don’t care about Lindsay, obligatory good white person that keeps hogging the narrative, but I know why she’s here. In addition, Harriet Tubman, Fredrick Douglas, and John Henry (folk-hero) are all KKK-fighting magicians. Not bad for a standalone
On a side note, this story made me think about Ruby Bridges-Hall and all she had to go through.

3.5 ( )

Tom Token is the first black student in St. Ivory Academy for wizards. And the academy is run by KKK, which is rather surprising but also fresh. And there is a reason behind Tom's admission to the academy. Everything is not what it seems.
The story is full of adventure and dashing battles. The artwork resembles manga. The colors are vibrant and vivid.
Thank you NetGalley and Oni Press for a copy of this book. ( )