Book Review: SLAY by Brittney Morris
The moment I caught wind of SLAY by Brittney Morris, I was both intrigued and eager. Combining video gaming—a world I’m only a casual observer of—with themes of race and identity? Yes, please! Morris’s debut is not merely a narrative; it’s a vibrant gateway into the complexities of Blackness and the quest for safe spaces, all wrapped up in a thrilling story about a young gamer.
At its heart, SLAY revolves around Kiera Johnson, a seventeen-year-old honors student and the brilliant mind behind a secret multiplayer game specifically designed for Black gamers, dubbed SLAY. In this immersive world, players can don Nubian personas and duel in card games steeped in cultural richness. But when tragedy strikes—a player is murdered over a dispute in SLAY—Kiera’s refuge morphs into a battleground, exposing her to real-world prejudice and unforeseen consequences. The narrative isn’t just about gaming; it’s about navigating cultural identity and the struggle to remain authentic in a world often hostile to Black excellence.
What struck me most about Morris’s writing style is her seamless ability to balance the urgency of the plot with deeper, reflective themes. The pacing is engaging, taking you through exhilarating gaming sequences while grounding you in Kiera’s everyday struggles—she feels like a tangible friend, and her experiences resonate on so many levels. The emotional highs and lows kept me turning pages, and I often found myself rooting for Kiera as if I was right there in the game alongside her.
Morris brilliantly captures the struggles of not only Kiera but of the broader Black community through her characters. I loved how friendships are portrayed, particularly the deep bond between Kiera and her sister Steph. Their dynamic illustrates the complexity of familial relationships—supporting each other while also wrestling with misunderstandings. The dialogue popped with authenticity, echoing real-life conversations about race and identity. As one poignant line reads: “Your Black is not my Black” – a reminder of the beauty in our diverseness that I truly cherished.
The testimonials about SLAY echo my sentiments. Many express appreciation for its timely discussions on racism and inclusion in gaming, with one reader saying it’s a profound dive into “issues of Blackness, sisterhood, self-respect, family, and community.” These are the very themes that evoke nostalgia and relatability, making this book resonate deeply with anyone who has ever felt marginalized or misunderstood.
In conclusion, SLAY is a captivating read not just for gamers but for anyone interested in exploring nuanced stories about identity, culture, and resilience. That’s the magic of Morris’s work—it invites readers to reflect on their own experiences while delivering a powerful narrative. Perfect for young adults and anyone who enjoys a compelling mix of fantasy, reality, and cultural exploration, SLAY left me inspired and craving more stories that unapologetically celebrate Blackness. If you’re looking for a book that combines excitement with meaningful reflection, I can’t recommend SLAY highly enough. It’s more than just a game; it’s a transformative experience, and I can’t wait to see what Morris conjures up next!