Content levels
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Synopsis
THE NEW YORK TIMES #1 BESTSELLER Lose yourself in this stunning debut novel - the unmissable historical story of injustice and redemption that resonates powerfully today 'One of the best books I have ever read in my entire life. I haven't felt this way since I first read Beloved . . .' Oprah Winfrey, OPRAH BOOK CLUB PICK Hiram Walker is a man with a secret, and a war to win. A war for the right to life, to family, to freedom. Born into bondage on a Virginia plantation, he is also born gifted with a mysterious power that he won't discover until he is almost a man, when he risks everything for a chance to escape. One fateful decision will carry him away from his makeshift plantation family and into the heart of the underground war on slavery... 'A transcendent work from a crucial political and literary artist' Diana Evans 'I've been wondering who might fill the intellectual void that plagued me after James Baldwin died. Clearly it is Ta-Nehisi Coates' Toni Morrison
The Water Dancer: content & age rating
Intended for adult readers (18+).
This historical fantasy about slavery contains strong depictions of violence, systemic oppression, and racism inherent to the antebellum South. The magical realism elements don't soften the historical brutality.
What to know going in
This book has strong violence, mild sexual content, and moderate language. Content notes include slavery, captivity, and death (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Adults will be captivated by this powerful story of a man with mysterious powers fighting for freedom through the Underground Railroad.