An underrated and fascinatingly complex figure in Black American history, Martin R. Delany is the subject of this book for young adults. Author Daniel J. Middleton divides the brisk-moving story into four separate parts that correspond with significant moments in Delany's life, each of which are narrated by someone present with Delany during those times. These four distinct figures are inspired by his work and push for the betterment of his people, which causes them to reflect on their own lives and the conditions around them.


Focusing on the so-called peripheral figures of history works well both as a narrative choice and as a means of fostering connection. It's notable that each of the fictional characters impacted by Martin Delany are young people themselves, who are not far in age from the target reader audience. In framing the story this way, Middleton reminds readers that there is no such things as an insignificant person or persons; that history has been shaped by countless people whose names we may never know, but who have always been around, and always will be, the same way that they (the readers) are. For reluctant readers such as those who struggle in maintaining an interest in history, this method is also a good way for them to place themselves in the story, imagining how they would ave reacted back then. This is especially pertinent for Black children, and I commend the author for taking this approach. In detailing Delany's thoughts and his reactions to the world around him, including the four protagonists, the author also reinforces that the known historical figures were regular people too, and weren't devoid of emotions.

One of the many appealing aspects of the book is the way that the author directly engages with his audience. He takes his time in explaining the book's structure and giving them some key points to think about as they start their reading journey; this includes outlining what elements in the book are real versus those that are speculative historical fiction. These methods help teens understand how to better engage with the book, but this also provides them with tools for engaging with other historical fiction books, as well as more advanced biographies. Delany is an interesting figure in that he also wrote a memoir in addition to other fiction works and letters, all of which are available in the public domain. Educators and librarians can work with teens to help them find Delany's books as well as other period works to enhance their reading, and to learn about other corresponding events in history.

The author makes deliberate choices that show his commitment to engaging and retaining readers. The glossary of period terms is well-constructed and arranging in chronological order to correspond with the book's sections helps the reader follow them clearly. The same structure is applied to the discussion questions, which allow young readers to think about each stage of Delany's life before moving on to the next chapter. I like the fact that the educator's guide is included within the book rather than as a standalone. I can see educators and even parents using this as an opportunity to read the book with their children and engage in discussions with them, while gaining new insights themselves. On a related note, I also appreciated the author's note at the very beginning that the book is also suitable for adult readers of historical fiction. As many of the biographies on Delany are out of print, and there are almost none available for young adults, Middleton's book may be those adults' primary exposure to Delany, as well.

Middleton's writing is clear and descriptive, creating a detailed feel for each of the four environments/periods of Delany's life. I'm not sure whether this was intentional or not, but each of the four periods correspond subtly to the four seasons and their respective changes. I really got a feel for each of the four young protagonists and their own backstories (which could constitute books on their own) and the deep self-reflection that they undergo. There are times when the author explains metaphors and idioms when he does not need to; I think that it's fine if a few of them just set there and let the readers figure them out with context clues.

The main concern that I have about the book is the cover, which almost (but ultimately didn't, thankfully) caused me to pass on the book altogether. The cover is detailed and striking, and the arrangement of the figures on the front alludes to the story structure inside as they relate to Delany's life. But at the same time, it does appear to be AI-generated, and I have a strong aversion to such and its role in content creation, especially as it pertains to books. No credited illustrator is listed in the front or back matter either, which is a little strange considering that there are a few illustrations within the book. I cannot state for certain whether the cover is AI-generated; if I am in error, please excuse me. Overall, I would rather see an engraving or period photograph of Delany on the cover than wonder about how the cover was made. I also realize that the cover is likely to grab attention, which is an important consideration for the target audience. But I also believe that the book is strong enough to appeal to readers on its merits.

Seeing books for the youth about underrated Black figures is always a pleasure for me, because I think about how young and future generations will be exposed to their accomplishments. I would purchase this title for teens I know as well as for my own library, and I would recommend it as supplemental material for various units and programs about Black American history. I did some research on the author and I admire his mission and his purpose in creating this work. The research and thoughtfulness that it took to conceive of and structure this series is evident, and one can tell that he has a great love of Black American history. I see that this is the first book in a planned series. Based off of this book as well as the other subjects for the next two books listed in the front, I would gladly read the other books in the series, as I'm curious to see how Mr. Middleton structures their respective stories. (Anyone who adds to the growing literature about Robert Smalls is already doing a great work.) This book also puts me in mind of the Afro-Bets series by Cheryl Willis and Wade Hudson. I'd also love to hear more from the author about the books that influenced him as a youth.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Unique Coloring, for this DRC in exchange for a fair and honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.