The Callers

The Callers #1

by Kiah Thomas

'Beautiful, big-hearted and so original -- I fell in love with this book.'- Amie Kaufman, NYT bestselling author of The World Between BlinksCALLERS CAN CONJURE ANYTHING OUT OF THIN AIR.BUT WHAT IF THE THINGS DON'T COME FROM NOTHING?WHAT IF THEY'RE TAKEN FROM . . . SOMEONE ELSE?In the world of Elipsom, the ability to Call, or summon objects, is a coveted skill. And yet despite being born into a family of Callers, Quin doesn't have the gift.But everything changes when instead of summoning an object, Quin makes something disappear . He quickly discovers that the objects Callers bring into their world aren't conjured at all, but are taken from another land, and another people who have had their lives slowly stolen from them.Now Quin must team up with Allie, a girl who's determined to stop this unjust practice, and decide whether he should remain loyal to his family, or betray them-and save the world.From dazzling newcomer Kiah Thomas comes an arresting, fast-paced and thought-provoking adventure about the consequences of wanting more than we need.PRAISE FOR THE CALLERS'Lush and dazzling, this enchanting fantasy whisks you away to an inventive world, full of intrigue and adventure. The Callers is captivating to the very end.'- Rhiannon William s, Ampersand Prize-winning author of the Narroway Trilogy'Don't we all want to believe we are forces for good and we carry within us some unknown magic power? Beautifully told and engaging and just thrilling. What a great story.'- Printz Honor-winning author Garret Weyr'a thoughtful and nuanced fantasy adventure in which two young people fight back against a colonising force that is devastating the environment ... Independent readers aged 8-12 will love this highly adventurous story and, if read together, it is the perfect tool for adults to use to initiate conversations about complex topics.'- Books + Publishing

Genres: Fantasy, Middle Grade, Fiction, Magic, Adventure, Childrens, Science Fiction

224 pages, Paperback

First published April 5, 2022

About the author

Kiah Thomas started telling stories when she was a kid; reimagining the endings in books she read. She rediscovered her love of kids books when she had children of her own, and started writing beginnings as well as endings. Kiah is passionate about books that kids and adults can enjoy together. She lives in Melbourne, Victoria with her husband, three children and at least seven stuffed toy penguins.

Reviews

[Elyse (ElyseReadsandSpeaks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dude. That better have a sequel.

I am SO happy this little gem caught my eye on Netgalley. (I was not happy that I downloaded it, forgot to read it, and then couldn't access it from my computer anymore.... But I bought a copy because I was curious and I don't like to leave books hanging out there. Purchase was well worth it.)

I love the idea that Callers on one side of the planet are wreaking havoc on the other side of the planet. There's actually some good stuff to unpack in here as far as colonization goes too. Even Quin's background is a good discussion point about colonization (.... But anymore would be a spoiler so I'll leave it there.)

But let's be real - that was no ending. That was a beginning. I will be super bummed if there's no follow up to this because it needs one.

[Hannah]

Read in one sitting. Another book I'd immediately add to my mental booklist for the class I'm dying to teach on middle grade fantasy about immigration and colonization. I think it was a bit too short and wrapped threads up too quickly, but what it does have is absolutely clever.

[April (Aprilius Maximus) · Rating 5 out of 5]

My year 5’s loved this one!!!

[Cheryl Rainfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I *loved* The Callers by Kiah Thomas so much. It's gripping with Quin, a relatable hero, a unique magic system, so many secrets and reveals, and while Quin is betrayed by many he also finds so many good allies who truly help. I also loved the analogy to colonialism, the way North America and the UK have exploited other countries, and the way truth can be suppressed or skewed--yet it's all done through a system of magic and fantasy that will fascinate and pull in readers. I already want a sequel! Highly recommended. (I received a review copy in exchange for an honest review--and I only review books that I love.)

[Penny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this gripping story based on an unusual and interesting premise that I haven't come across before. I would love to know where the author got her idea from!

Quintus Octavius (Quin) is born into a family of Callers in Elipsom. His mum is the formidable Chief Councilor and his sister Davinia is one of the most promising Callers in recent years. So when it appears that Quin can't summon even the most basic of objects, it would seem that he is going to be an embarrassment to his esteemed family.

But when he discovers that he can make things disappear, Quin finds out that the objects which the Callers are bringing into their world aren't actually conjured out of thin air at all. Rather, they are being taken from another land and another group of people, who are having their own lives gradually stolen from them.

What is Quin to do? Should he remain loyal to his family or betray them?

This book would promote some great discussion around colonisation, immigration and getting what you want without having to actually work for it!

It has a bit of a dystopian vibe as well, although I have it in my Fantasy section, so might appeal to readers of Bren MacDibble.

[MBenzz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was giving off some MAJOR 'The Giver' vibes, and since that's my favorite book ever, that definitely wasn't a bad thing.

This book is clearly the first in a duo or trio, and I didn't realize that when I started it. The story ended on a huge cliffhanger, and even though the book was published over a year ago, I don't see any mentions anywhere of if or when Book 2 is supposed to come out, so that's a bummer.

Overall though, I really did enjoy this. I hope the second book follows soon because I'd love to know how this story wraps up!

[Catharina Steel · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I admired how the environmental issues were addressed in this story. The contrast between a green side of the world and a dying one due to neglecting the environment was portrayed effectively.
I found the subtle hint at a potential romance between Quin and Allie intriguing. The narrative also delved into themes of greed, power hunger, and betrayal even among close friends.
Overall, I found this story captivating and engaging! The enchanting writing style will surely resonate with young readers aged 8 to 12."

[Rebecca McPhedran · Rating 2 out of 5]

A Maine Student Book Award nominee for 2022|2023

Quin is poised to become a Caller-someone who can call the things they need out of thin air. He’s the latest in a long line of Callers. There’s only one problem; he can’t call a single thing.

He starts to have dreams about a different place, and when he starts to question all that he’s come to know; his entire world will be flipped upside down.

Definitely very middle grade, even upper elementary. This one was just ok.

[Ms. B · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 stars. What if your mother was evil? What would you do to save others from her? That's what Quin must figure out in this story about a boy who doesn't have the family talent for calling things into being. Instead he is able to draw and conjure things. Others like Allie are able to call him into being. The ending will leave readers wondering if there will be a sequel and how soon.
If you know a tween or young teen who likes fantasy, have them give this a try. Fans of The Giver may also like it.

[Cristina Mrozek · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a SSYRA book for grades 3-5 this school year. The people who choose the books are really into picking books from a series now, so that can be annoying. But, this first book was good and although it took a bit to get into it (Sci-Fi is not my favorite genre) once I did I enjoyed it. The characters were relatable and the ending was definitely a cliffhanger that makes you want to read the next book.

[Eileen Winfrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quin is not living up to his fearsome mother’s expectations. One day he mysteriously falls into another world and discovers why. Greed and betrayal are woven into some interesting world building and some moral dilemmas. I really wanted to read all the way to the end.

[Therearenobadbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I love most about this first volume is how the characters meet and discover that what they thought were their weaknesses are indeed their most useful strengths in the right time with the right people. Easy to understand and to connect with the characters.

[bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can’t wait for number 2

[Shelby904 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was a good start to elementary school science fiction fantasy. Quinn, Davina, Hallie, Cas, Mom/Adriana Octavius. Vine touched Evora.

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed this complimentary copy from Raincoast books.
I rarely give books a five star rating.

I see so much potential in this read not only to simply be enjoyed, but also to be part of a book study and critical thinking unit.

Interesting magical system.
Fascinating how the governmental system worked.

Good juxtaposition between how two different worlds, interconnected though they be, operated.
Nice solid hard cover with good character development that I would like to see a sequel too.

[Brian Paquin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quin is part of a family of Callers--people who can call things out of thin air. His family are all Callers and his mom, Adriana is Chief Council. Quin struggles with the calling ability, never seeming to be able to call things. There are people who live in the Spurges who believe calling is wrong. That basically calling is wrong and Callers are actually stealing from people because things just don't come from nowhere. After he takes his calling test, things really take a turn. Quin must fight to help discover the truths of what is happening. That's all I am going to say about the plot. I think I'll get too spoilery. This is a fast paced middle grade read full of fantasy and intrigue!

[Lisastokes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this book. Such an original story full of warmth and surprises! I love the characters and feel really invested in their journey. The story is so vividly told and I really hope there's more to come!

[Hoover Public Library Kids and Teens · Rating 4 out of 5]

The ability to Call, to summon things out of thin air, makes you elite in the Elipsom world. Quin comes from a long line of Callers, so he's devastated when he doesn't have the ability. Then he learns the truth: everything comes from somewhere.

[Lucas Bernardin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Je m'attendais pas à grand chose en le commençant. Et en fait j'ai découvert un univers incroyablement construit. Tellement original. Il m'a rappelé un peu l'époque des pierre bottero.
Tellement impatient de découvrir le tome 2.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Parution en janvier.
C'était vraiment pas mal, l'idée est intéressante mais 200 pages c'est pas assez développé pour moi, ça aurait mérité plus pour en faire un très bon roman pour les 9-10 ans.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book! A great read for middle primary, my class loved it. Excited for the second book as we have lots of questions to be answered!

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an excellent pick for my vacation book club! I was looking for something engaging with lots of interest and conversation topics. This excelled on these fronts! I thought our main character was lovable. The beginning of the story had an amazing hook, and the plot twisted from there into something bigger you didn't see coming. The pace slowed in the middle during some exposition, but this wasn't a problem at all. I liked the character and plot development. What I loved most was the world building and how creative it was! The fantasy genre with a consumer/environmentalist theme was a unique and intriguing combo. I found the central themes simply done, but profound in how they directly related to our current world. I also particularly liked how the book seemed like a great middle grade reading level and digestible for kids, but also could easily be enjoyed by adults as well. (No eye rolling clichés, dumb as rocks adults, or obvious from miles away plot twists.)
If I could have added anything to make this solidly a 5 star read, it would be some more background information on how the world works and their various rules, as well as how Quin's family has been able to kidnap and raise non-calling babies for decades without being caught. Also more info on the Spurges and how they came to be could be cool. I think this book does work as a stand alone, but I am hoping for a sequel to get more info on how everyone is doing now and how things are progressing. I think all of my questions come about from an expectation about fantasy stories and an interest in the why of things and a hope for a little more meatiness, but I think a lot of people will love this and rate it 5 stars despite my critiques.
I would recommend this to anyone who likes fantasy, nature, ethical questions, or dystopian novels like The Giver.

[Michi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happy publication day!

Thank you to NetGalley, Chronicle Books, and Kiah Thomas for the eARC copy of this book! Disclaimer: The version I read was an uncorrected proof.

I thoroughly enjoyed The Callers; I read it in one sitting. It reminded me of The Giver as both books have that magical, dystopian vibe and convey important messages and themes. Despite being a middle-grade read, I think people of all ages can relate to and enjoy this book. The world, creatures, and magic system are really interesting and the main character, Quin, is easy to connect with.

Quin deals with problems that I think many of us have in our own lives. He is struggling with the weight of his family's expectations and the feeling that he doesn't belong. He also finds out that his mother has been lying to him and has been a key player in the destruction of another land. Throughout the book, he finds his own calling in life--not the actual Calling--and begins righting the wrongs of his family.

The overarching theme of colonialism and it's negative impacts is also incredibly important and I love to see it being addressed in a middle-grade novel. While younger children might not completely understand, the lesson still shines through--stealing anything from anyone is wrong and other people should not be harmed for your own benefit.

The one shortcoming is that I there wasn't as much of a resolution as I wanted/expected in the end, but I think the book still accomplished it's purpose and the messages were conveyed well despite that.

Overall, this was a great read and I will definitely be recommending it to my friends and colleagues who teach so that they can include it in their classroom libraries.

[Tamara M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rated this a 4.

To Call, is to summon something, from nothing. Calling is a rare enough, coveted talent that many would want, but it is expected from the Octavius family. Every generation has produced the best, and strongest Callers. . . all except Quintess, who seems to not have this ability. While feeling the pressure from the Calling Exam that is coming up, his world starts slowly unravelling. Things start going missing, and he keeps having strange dreams. It all comes to head when he suddenly wakes up in an unfamiliar place.

Honestly this was a really good read. It is for lower reading levels, which makes me want more from the plot, but I won't take that away from the rating since it fits perfectly for it's intended age group. The only thing that confused me was that the description has this line "But everything changes in a moment of frustration when Quin, instead of summoning an object, makes something disappear". It made me think that he actually had the ability to send things back to the other side of the continent. Which again is my own misunderstanding and I won't take that against the book, but it did confuse me when they actually revealed what his true ability is. I love that a lot of the themes can be applied to today's social issues like consumerism, colonialism, and the exploitation of natural resources.

I wish this was a book I read in school.

[Morgan NotAForceUser Patton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quin's family have been strong Callers for generations. The ability to make things appear through sheer will and words is the Octavius family legacy, and Quin wants nothing more than to make his family proud. But, Quin cannot Call. Afraid that he will disappoint his mother, the leader of the Callers, his world is turned upside down when he is Called and learns the dark secrets behind Calling. This delightful middle grade debut by Kiah Thomas addresses environmental issues, imperialism, and finding one's place within a story that still feels magical and whimsical.
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Thomas has a few books for young readers, but this is their first adventure into middle grade, and I would call it an absolute success. Its only shortcomings are those that are common among middle grade books: it isn't quite long enough to give me quite the time I would want with some characters to see their growth and development, and it does telegraph a few of it's plot points. These are not large criticisms, especially the latter, which can actually make it more accessible for its target demographic. Overall, this is a delightful debut, and I would be excited to read more of what Thomas has to say. Pick this book up for the middle grade reader for your life on April 5, or pre-order now!
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This ebook was graciously provided by the publisher, Chronicle Books through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Mandi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Look, I really wanted to like this one. It sounded amazing with great themes and an important message. Instead, it's basically 200+ pages of an incredibly shallow moralizing metaphor with characters flatter than paper, a plot that barely moves, and a lack of anything close to a resolution.

Thomas would've been better off writing an essay or something, bc she certainly had no intention of writing an actual story with characters or any kind of depth. Her depiction of this world's colonialism and exploitation manages to be incredibly one dimensional and downplay our world's equivalent colonialism and exploitation, which definitely rubbed me the wrong way. This might be a good book to use in a elementary class about those topics, but honestly, that might give it a bit too much credit. (I'm sorry! I really wanted to like this one! But I kept having to take breaks to ask wtf at my ceiling bc there's no depth to this one way or another. And I agree with the idea of the message, but this felt like it was absolving the colonizing society too much bc they ~didn't know~ and just. I know it's a kids' book, but I feel like it's shallow enough to be more harmful than helpful in explaining this to kids.)

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great story. A young boy living with his mom and sister. They are callers- people who can call things into existence. Their world has lost its ability to grow and provide for their society so they just call things- but they have rules to follow. To be a caller is a great privilege. Quin is part of a family of callers but cannot call. His mother rigs it so it appears as if he passed his test, but Quin knows he cannot call. Suddenly Quin is called away from Elipsom and ends up in Evantra- a place he has never seen but somehow feels a connection to. He meets Allie- and other people that he feels very connected to. He learns about what his mother is doing and the unjust things his mother has done. How will Quin fight this when his own mother seems so distant and uncaring? - so set on continuing her stealing and ruling the people of Evantra. Will Quinn be able to help Evantra? This is a page turner that I am certain 4-5 graders would love to read. They will cheer for Quin and Allie and even a bit for Davinia.

[Gerald · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent MG exploration of issues of colonization, consumption, and the role of technology in social change. Even though it's fantasy, and the world-building isn't the most detailed, it's strongly in the tradition of "social science fiction" à la Ursula Le Guin or Ann Leckie. I particularly enjoyed Quin, the protagonist's, gradual and difficult process of understanding his—and his family's—role in the corrupt social system that is held up by the magical power of Calling. Realizing you benefit from and participate in a system that hurts others is hard, and even if you want to do the right thing, the process of acknowledging the truth and figuring out how to act on it isn't easy, and magic doesn't make it easier.
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Note: I recieved an advanced review copy (ARC) provided to me for free by the publisher via Edelweiss.plus. I wasn't paid for this review and it's my real opinion!

[Mia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Callers by Kiah Thomas is a story of Quintus Octavius; a boy expected to have inherited the rare ability to Call things into being, having been born into a family of callers. Everything changes for Quin when he discovers that the items being called are not being created, but taken from somewhere else.

Review based on the uncorrected proof.
The Callers is a fast-paced middle-grade dystopian about the consequences of taking more than we need and its effect on the people and environment around us. It touches on the topic of colonisation, greed, and the abuse of power in governmental and familial relationships. It would be a great story for teachers to use as a study text for younger ones. A world that could be expanded further but does a good job for the intended audience. It is full of fun and imagination and even though I did enjoy it, I definitely would have adored it much more if I had read it in primary school.

[✧ Beanie Reads ✧ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
4 stars

This was a very pleasant find on netgalley! It's not revolutionary or anything, but it hits all the points it's trying to hit and then some. There were developments with Quin that were really interesting, and the cast of characters were nice to read. The book doesn't fully tackle some more complicated aspects of its themes, but based on the preview given for book 2, I do believe it plans to.

I'm excited to see where the series goes from here. We learned a lot of stuff about the world in this book, but I really feel (or maybe hope) the rest of the series will dig into what it has now that the foundation is there. This is definitely a series I recommend for young readers. This is already a good story for adult me, but I'm very sure pre-teen me would have absolutely loved this.