Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Manifestor Prophecy – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Manifestor Prophecy

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

book2024

91%

WISE Score

4.7

Amazon

Angie Thomas brings her YA magic to middle grade with a wildly inventive fantasy rooted in Black folklore—think Percy Jackson meets The Hate U Give.

Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Manifestor Prophecy

book

2024

91%

WISE Score

4.7

Amazon

Angie Thomas brings her YA magic to middle grade with a wildly inventive fantasy rooted in Black folklore—think Percy Jackson meets The Hate U Give.

4.7

Jump to

Also rated on

4.7

View →

Where to Read

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Libby

Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased, but as an Amazon Associate, Screenwise earns an affiliate fee if you buy a book or game by clicking one of our links. We don't get any credit if you just Google it instead :)

Screenwise Verdict

Angie Thomas taking on middle grade fantasy is like LeBron deciding to coach Little League—you know it's going to be good, and it absolutely is. This book hits every mark: fresh world-building rooted in African American folklore, a protagonist kids will root for, genuine humor, and stakes that matter.

The magic system is inventive without being confusing, and the contemporary setting (plus a hellhound pet) makes it feel accessible rather than dense high fantasy. At 368 pages, it's substantial but never drags—Thomas knows pacing.

The instant #1 bestseller status isn't hype; this is genuinely engaging middle grade that kids want to read. It offers representation, cultural enrichment, and a cracking good adventure. If your kid loved Percy Jackson or Tristan Strong, this belongs on the shelf.

Age Fit

Best for confident readers ages 9-13, though Common Sense Media says 8+ works for advanced or read-aloud situations. The 368-page length and thriller pacing make it perfect for kids ready to graduate from shorter chapter books. Teens might age out unless they're fantasy completists.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Models strong friendship, family loyalty, and determination in the face of injustice. Nic refuses to believe her father is guilty and fights to clear his name—emotionally healthy themes of trust and perseverance. Age-appropriate tone for middle grade with humor and heart. Some thrilling scuffles but nothing gratuitous.

Imaginative

Wildly creative contemporary fantasy that blends African American history and folklore with magic systems (Manifestors, hellhounds as pets). The 'Remarkable vs Unremarkable world' concept is fresh and inventive. Hunt for a mysterious magic tool drives exploration and problem-solving. Angie Thomas brings YA storytelling chops to middle grade with originality.

Safe

Common Sense Media rates it 8+, other reviews suggest 9+. Described as 'very thrilling' with 'many scuffles between main characters' but no graphic violence, gore, or inappropriate content. Age-appropriate tension and action for the target audience. No concerning themes beyond fantasy adventure peril.

Enriching

Rooted in African American history and folklore, offering cultural enrichment and representation. Explores themes of justice, believing in loved ones, and standing up for what's right. Strong problem-solving and critical thinking as Nic investigates. Instant #1 NYT bestseller suggests compelling storytelling that keeps kids reading. Builds empathy through diverse characters navigating magical and real-world challenges.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Instant #1 NYT bestseller that actually delivers—Angie Thomas knows how to hook readers and keep them turning pages
Fresh take on contemporary fantasy with African American history and folklore woven throughout, offering representation and cultural richness
Nic is a compelling protagonist: funny, determined, loyal to her dad, and desperate to prove his innocence
Perfect gateway from early chapter books to meatier middle grade—368 pages that don't feel like work
Hellhound as a pet? Magic systems? The 'Remarkable vs Unremarkable world' concept is genuinely creative and fun

⚠

What to Watch For

Thrilling action sequences and scuffles—nothing graphic, but the stakes are real and tension runs high
Father is imprisoned for a crime (wrongly accused), which could be heavy for sensitive kids who struggle with injustice themes
First in a trilogy, so expect some cliffhangers and the need to continue the series

Conversation Starters

"If you could be a Manifestor like Nic, what kind of magic would you want to learn?"
"Nic refuses to believe her dad is guilty even when everyone else does. Have you ever had to stand up for someone when it was hard?"
"The book mixes real African American history with fantasy. What parts felt familiar and what surprised you?"
"Would you rather live in the Remarkable or Unremarkable world? What would be the hardest part of keeping magic secret?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic