Race to Fire Mountain

Future Hero #1

by Remi Blackwood

The start of a thrilling, highly illustrated series about a boy who finds a portal to a legendary world in his local barbershop . . . and learns he's the hero they've been waiting for. For younger fans of Black Panther and Last Gate of the Emperor ! Jarell has never quite known where he belongs. He's ignored at home and teased at school for wanting to draw instead of playing sports with the other boys. The only place he's ever felt truly at ease is his local barbershop where the owner hangs Jarell's art up on the walls. When Jarell discovers a hidden portal in the barbershop, he's transported to a magical world that's unlike anything he's seen before. But it's not just the powerful gods and dangerous creatures that makes this world different--it's that everyone believes Jarell is the hero they've been waiting for.

Genres: Fantasy, Middle Grade, Childrens, Fiction, Superheroes, Magic, School

143 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 2, 2022

Reviews

[Mike (Hail Horror Hail) · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's a bit of a mess structurally. My students were frequently confused, as was I. There's some good bits of action but overall a bit of a slog to complete.

[Liz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jarell doesn't fit in at school but doesn't want to tell anyone about it. He would rather draw than play sports. He just wants to forget about his day, but when he loses his keys to the apartment, he has to wait for his brother to come home to let him in. While he waits, he goes to his cousin's newly renovated barbershop and looks into a mirror that reveals a world that looks like all his drawings. It's a really cool hologram, right? Actually, he's transported to a magical world called Ulfrika where he's the heir and hero the people have been waiting for...It moves fast with lots of action, but it's a little too fast that some of the explanations from step to step seem like a stretch or at least not fully explained as much as I want as an adult. There are some illustrations throughout similar to Dragons in a Bag to help readers picture this futuristic fantasy world. While Dragons in a Bag takes half the book to get started, the action and plot move faster in this one and feels like more is accomplished in this first volume. A great shorter chapter book series for younger fans of Black Panther. A good precursor to Tristan Strong.

[Sharmin Begum · Rating 2 out of 5]

The plot felt like a cross between Black Panther and Narnia. The story is filled with lots of action and a strong sense of culture. It was a quick read, although the the storyline wasn’t the most well structured.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

I know kids that would love this, but it's not my cup of tea. Too much action, not enough character development.

[riley · Rating 4 out of 5]

probably more like 3.5 because it essentially is just black panther if he was in middle school but overall my class and i enjoyed the story and the action so it was an enjoyable read. probably won’t read the next one so sorry jarell but i hope you find those missing iron animals

[Annalise Kraines · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is staunchly a children's book, and it's great-- really fun, fast moving plot, language that isn't too simple for a kid to follow, and dynamic characters. It feels quite a lot like Black Panther with that cover, but at second glance it's its own story.

[Ms. Yingling · Rating 3 out of 5]

E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus

Jarrell has a lot of trouble paying attention and school and would rather spend his time drawing. This gets him into some trouble with his teachers, especially Mr. Mordi. His parents have to work a lot, so he is occasionally home alone. His older brother, Lucas, is more athletic and doesn't have a lot of patience with him. When Jarrell forgets his key to get home again, Lucas doesn't want to let him in, and Jarrell meets up with his cousin, Omari, who is re-opening his father's barbershop, Fades. He has renovated the inside after a flood, and even hung up a lot of Jarrell's artwork! Omari introduces him to his friend, Legsy, who is very impressed with the artwork and encourages Jarrell. When Jarrell enters the VIP room, it looks oddly familiar, and after he looks into an antique mirror, he finds himself in another world! There's a red clay temple and a sorcerer, Ikala, and a goddess, Ayana, from his drawings! Ikala wants to regain the Staff of Kundi that Ayana is keeping from him because it was made specifically to destroy him. The two fight, and Jarrell doesn't know what to do. Eventually, that scene fades, but the expression on his face lets Legsy know that he has seen into Ulfrika. Legsy then tells Jarrel that he is really Olegu, the God of Doorways, and he has created the portal. He's been looking for a true descendant of Kundi to help with this this world. Jarrell also meets Kimisi, who is Ayana's apprentice. Working with people from Ulfrika, Jarrell is able to harness his powers as an heir of Kundi to save this alternative world. Will he be able to?

Strengths: Like Mbalia's The Last Gate of the Emperor, this is described as "inspired by the mythology of Africa and its diaspora" but is a more comfortable length for developing readers, like Patton's Battle Bugs series. I have never understood why middle grade fantasy books have to be so long; Lake's A Coming of Dragons and LaFever's Lowthar's Blade books are still very popular with my students, and I think it's because they are both three books series of much shorter books. The fact that this also has some illustrations makes it even better! The story zips along at a good pace, and the world building is great; I love that the portal is a barbershop!
Weaknesses: The Pan African mythos is really interesting, but I spent an inordinate amount of time doing internet searches for all of the characters, and sort of wish it had been based on existing mythology. Of course, there are thousands of quasi Anglo-Celtic based fantasy novels, so I can't really argue! This was originally a UK release; I might have changed Jarrell's mom's job in this edition. She drives a double-decker, and now all of my students will know what that is.
What I really think: This is a fantastic mix of easy-to-read text, occasional pictures, and a portal fantasy that will appeal to many of my 6th and 7th grade readers and will be super popular at Scholastic book fairs! It reminds me in the best possible way of Rodda's 2001 Deltora Quest series. Fans of Giles' The Last-Last Day of Summer who need something a little shorter to read will adore this one, and I see it being a really popular choice for book projects. Perhaps I should buy two copies, since someone lost the first book in LaFevers' Lowthar's Blade, and since it was in prebind and is out of print, there's really no replacing it.

[Mariah · Rating 2 out of 5]

A generic hodgepodge of a menagerie of Afro-futuristic fantasy told better in other media. A lot of books have adopted this kind of vibe, but don’t actually have anything interesting to do or say about African heritage, culture or folklore. It’s primarily aesthetics and surface level name dropping more than anything. Future Hero: Race to Fire Mountain feels a lot like it’s cribbing off of Black Panther being so popular without actively establishing its own unique identity; particularly because it moves so quickly. I’m not one to say originality is more important than anything because, to me, it’s about the execution. However, I still need something special in some way to hang my hat on.

The world building was extremely limited to the point that the fact that he was in a new world barely mattered. His obstacles were immediately dispatched through no effort on his own. The set-up for a sequel or rather a series was rushed making the ending wildly abrupt. Despite feeling like he’s a black sheep when it comes to his family, that plot line is completely unrelated to the events of the book. He returns home only for the book to just end right there without ever even meeting his parents, let alone Jarell having a conversation about how he feels. The premise of his hero’s journey was that he was insecure and that in saving Ulfrika he will realize his shortcomings are not all that he is. He comes into his own saving Ulfrika, but the arc is incomplete since what he learns is not demonstrated in his actual reality.

The structure was odd. I’ve read younger demographic books like this before and in spite of being more simplistic due to the nature of the demographic, they usually are paced fairly evenly to make sure each act has a significant event to balance the story out. It will be predictable, certainly, but that's also a part of younger children learning to read and learning how a book generally 'should' be constructed. This book essentially had no middle. It was heavy on the set-up, then heavy on the resolution before hitting a wall. The exploration of the universe i.e. why I should even care about saving Ulfrika or Jarell’s burgeoning love for it, is totally missing.

At the end of the day it’s a book for 3rd to 5th graders and a kid would be reasonably dazzled. . It’s decently written. I enjoy Black led stories. I think African mythology is always worth showcasing. Even so, while every book need not be the best book to ever exist, for principle’s sake I feel this one could have been better.

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

At 134 pages, Future Hero by Remi Blackwood is the perfect length for a younger reader or someone looking for a short immersive read!

Jarrell always feels awkward. He’s not cool like his older brother or athletic like other boys in his class. He’s also not as studious as his parents would like because his head is usually in his sketchbook drawing amazing Afro-futuristic images of buildings, warriors and goddesses that pop into his head. One day, while at his cousin’s barbershop, he learns that the images aren’t from his imagination, they’re real! Now he must go on an adventure to save an “ancient- future” kingdom from an evil sorcerer. Can he be the hero they are hoping for?

While small in page number, this book was big on action, adventure and heart. I love that it used the term “ancient- future”. So many fantastical worlds take place in that type of society yet I’ve never heard it described so succinctly before. Because of the length, some of the aspects of the book (like Jarell’s relationship with his family) don’t get to breathe a lot but, the author does do a great job of giving us the highlights while getting to the meat of the story. Also- it’s the first in a series and the second book is out now!

This would be a great book for a younger reader who likes kid heros and fantasy. Also, for readers who enjoyed the Tristan Strong or Amari books.

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

First sentence: Jarell raced up the five flights of stairs to his apartment, but he couldn't escape the memory of his classmates' laughter. Or his teacher's very angry face.

Premise/plot: After a bad day at school, Jarell realizes he has lost his house key. While waiting for his older (and much annoyed brother) to come home to let him in, he decides to visit his cousin Omari in his barber shop. He meets his cousin's new business partner, and, well, his life won't be the same again. He's given the VIP treatment, and, well learns that he can access another realm through a magical mirror. He is in fact...wait for it, wait for it...the future hero. He travels through the mirror to a magical realm, Ulfrica, and action and adventure await....

My thoughts: I do enjoy the travel-to-another-realm-through-magic genre or sub-genre. This one is for younger readers--I'd say mid-to-upper elementary school. It is illustrated. But it is not an early chapter book or graphic novel. This first book sets the stage and establishes characters. Further books probably will hold even more action/adventure in a fantasy realm.

[Vicky · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Future Hero: Race to Fire Mountain, by Remi Blackwood, Jarell is a present day African-American teenager who feels adrift in his life. Upon visiting his cousin’s newly redecorated barbershop he finds a magical (or highly technological) mirror showing him a world he has only imagined. The mirror’s owner finds out that Jarell is the artist he’s been searching for (having seen his artwork of the other world). It turns out Jarell is the descendant of the Great Kundi from this other world (which may be why he has seen it in his dreams/imagination and been able to draw it). He may be the only one to wield the power of Kundi’s staff and protect this world. The black and white illustrations included in this uncorrected proof are clear and emotive and the cover art is vibrant and colorful. My son can’t wait to see the rest of the artwork in the corrected proof.

[Kristen Carrier · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book to check it out before giving to my son, and I was not disappointed! I loved the characters—they felt very real and relatable. The plot was fun and exciting and the world-building was magical and takes inspiration from African culture, folklore, flora and fauna. I loved that the magical world mentioned certain objects were crafted from mpingo wood which is a valuable tree that grows in parts of Africa—it was a nice touch.

*slight spoilers*

I love how Jarell learns that he has healing powers and heals a wounded animal and loved that the longer he stays in Ulfrika, the more connected he feels to his ancestors and it gives him a new sense of belonging.

*spoilers over*

I highly recommend this book, I definitely think it will capture my 12-yr-old son’s attention and he will enjoy at as well. Can’t wait to read the sequels and discuss them with my son! 💜

[Lexie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have just finished this book and it was very good. The book made me feel a mix of emotions - happy when they got what they needed and sad when a helper of the quest was band from returning.
I like the main character because they are creative with their drawings and work hard. I think the lesson is to believe in yourself and you can accomplish anything.
There is a friend at school who Likes  the same book so I will give it to them to borrow. It is very interesting.
Atm I think Katie Kirby books are better because they are more drama full and funny but I think both of them are really good in different ways.Like, Katie is great at writing drama and Remi Blackwood is good at writing chaos.

[Jennybeast · Rating 3 out of 5]

This has a lot going for it -- Afrofuturism, accessible text, barber shop portal fantasy, main character who loves to draw, chosen one/hero's journey -- check, check, check. Another reviewer (Sharmin Begum) described it as "a cross between Black Panther and Narnia" and that is it in a nutshell -- and all of that sounds great, but I just can't say I enjoyed it -- it felt really flat to me. It's entirely possible that the intended audience (upper elementary) will love it, but as I started looking around I discovered that this is a collaborative piece authored by a group of writers. Cool idea, just didn't work for me.

[Sara Hudson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally, an action packed fantasy adventure that is less than 400 pages! I love Amari and the Night Brothers, and Nic Blake and the Remarkables, but they are too long for the younger mglit set. Jarell and his new friend Kimisi deliver action, adventure, magic, mythology in a tidy 134 pages with some spot illustrations. Perfect for younger readers who want all of that, and families looking for a read aloud that won't take a month. A similar vibe to Zetta Elliott's Dragons in a Bag series, but even more kid-centered with adult characters taking a firm backseat. Ends by priming you for the next book, which I don't love, but it has a satisfactory close to this first segment of the story.

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

i loved this, a fast read like a 1960s or 70s comicbook. A local bookstore loaned me the arc, it doesn't have any interior art, looking forward to seeing it. the book has a place for the first chapter of the next book, not included in the advanced reader, and doesn't need it. i'm sold. i want to read the next in the series and for one of the few times after reading a boo i want to see a movie made of it.
A simple story well done, kid sees into another world and told destiny awaits if he chooses it.

[Tara Ethridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible novel that was so intriguing! Jarell has always been a daydreamer and spends his time drawing the same fantasy land over and over. When one day he finds himself drawn into that actual land he has been drawing, he finds out his destiny is intertwined with it. And what a destiny! Loved so much the African influence in this book and the characters are great. Filled with action, adventure and fantasy!

[Chantelle Flannery · Rating 3 out of 5]

My 8yr old read this in his 3rd grade class. He said that he loved it so much I needed to read it. It feels a little bit like Black Panther and Animorph. I didn’t read it for the content. I read it for my son. We have started to read the second book together. He told me his teacher and classmates are very jealous.

[Loreley Vander Laan · Rating 1 out of 5]

It is a ripoff of Black Panther. It is poorly written. My 10 year old could not follow the story. The plot is confusing. How was this published? Why are there sequels? My son received the book from a reading program. It’s like the author over used the thesaurus feature on Microsoft word. The sentences and story have no flow. Do not waste your time reading this book.

[Patricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it enough that I’ll finish the series. I want to know what happens next.

My rating might be biased since I’m an adult, but there were moments that felt like a paragraph or two were missing. Transitions weren’t really present, it had a “next slide” vibe, but I think the storyline is fun and enjoyable. Great book for an early reader.

[Cristina Mrozek · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a 2023-24 SSYRA book for grades 3-5. I read it with my two children and they loved it. I, on the other hand, found it good but not great. The storyline was good and the characters were well developed, but I think the made-up names for the characters & lands were too difficult for people to pronounce & thus making it a tad more difficult for students to decipher as they read.

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m very interested to see more of the artwork since it’s not shown in the advanced reading copy, but I love that this book is only 135 pages but full of action, (like a very short Rick Riordan book as an easy comparison!)

[Ardin Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so cool, and I am thrilled that it is a series. I seriously love the concept, and was engaged the entire time. It gives the feel of an older Middle Grade adventure while still being aimed at a younger audience. Perfect 1st book to a series!

[T-Rex Slash · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was such a good book. I like the iron animals. If it was a movie I would watch it all day long. The book was really good, no problems. I recommend it to everyone who likes super heroes and adventure.

[Rose Eleusis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Borrowed this from the library for my little brother, ended up reading it myself. I wish there were diverse books like this when I was in elementary school. Kids of all backgrounds will enjoy this short, compelling read.

[Cynthia Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is my least favorite SSYRA book so far. I think it will appeal to reluctant readers, but I don't like that every challenge was overcome so quickly and easily. He never really had to work for anything, never had to learn, and never had to struggle. It all just came to him.

[Kari · Rating 3 out of 5]

I used this book as a read aloud for my third grade class. It was a little slow moving and the writing was basic. I think if they were to read it on their own they would’ve enjoyed it more but it wasn’t really a good fit for a read aloud.

[Emily Humes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jerrell is very artistic and finds that he has drawn this other sci fi universe that turns out to be real. He goes there and helps save their world. Cute and short, but not super memorable despite the unique plot.

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok but escalates a bit to fast

It starts off coming home from school getting a haircut and teleporting to a new world danger happens fast reaches the climax early and stay there for a while plus ends with a cliffhanger


Would recommend if you like action and cliffhangers

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jerell doesn't really fit in at school or home. He is an artist but no one really understands him or his art until his uncle displays his work at his barbershop. Then suddenly everything changes for Jerell and he becomes the hero he was meant to be.