Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James

Marlon James’s best-selling novel “Black Leopard, Red Wolf” is a powerful and expansive epic fantasy saga. Taking place in an entirely imaginary realm, this thrilling tale weaves together multiple fantastical storylines and characters. The book follows the journey of Tracker, a tracker-for-hire who is hired to find a lost child. Along the way, Tracker is joined by a colorful cast of allies and they travel in a world populated by gods and monsters. Their quest introduces readers to a cast of characters and cultures reflective of African folktales and mythology, and James manages to combine elements of science-fiction and fantasy with the ancient African culture to create a wholly original and engaging story.

The story is set in a vast, mythical Africa, with nations such as the Empire of Olorun, the City of Moon and the Kingdom of Thina as Tracker’s destination. With a wilderness that has its own strange flora, fauna and magical creatures, this mythical landscape is home to a variety of characters. Lemalian, Tracker’s friend and companion, is a shape-shifter and is able to transform into a black leopard. The two must rely on each other’s strengths and abilities to successfully complete their quest.

The narrative also focuses on Tracker’s unique perspective and experience as an Other, a racialized person from a different culture. Through this, James introduces readers to a wide range of themes and concepts, such as the invisibility of race in the fantasy genre, privilege, and blackness as an identity.

Despite the dark, mythical landscapes and creatures he encounters, Tracker’s journey is ultimately one of hope. As he often reflects, it is through understanding and self-discovery that he can embrace his own inner strength and his ability to face whatever dangers and enemies that stand in the way of him finding the lost child.

The book’s wonderful mix of imaginative writing, strong characters, and engaging plot make this an excellent read for all types of fantasy readers. Marlon James has crafted a wonderfully immersive and captivating world, punctuated by moments of excitement and danger, making “Black Leopard, Red Wolf” a fantastic and absolutely unmissable read.