Magic in the Melanin - Review

I received this digital copy from Written in Melanin Publishing. All views are my own

In Kenya Barris's Netflix show, #BlackAF, there is a scene talking about rooting for everybody Black vs., but is the product good?. I'd say this is one of the biggest debates for Black people regarding entertainment. We already know it's hard enough to break into white spaces, especially knowing that we were never invited to the table to begin with. I even commend all the creatives who broke through that door and snatched the chairs at the table for a seat. We will congratulate TF on any of our people who make it, and support their work until the wheels fall off. But what if the work was mid? Do you still stand on couches shouting its praises, or do you tell the truth?

"In this anthology, everybody is Black.

Filled with epic battles, complicated families, soft kisses, and sharpened blades, Magic in the Melanin is an adult fantasy anthology that showcases Black authors who write magical stories of all kinds. Featuring full-page artwork to accompany your adventure through the pages, this anthology is what fantasy looks like when Blackness is centered and the imaginations of Black creators are unhindered. Dive into these stories and discover countless worlds where magic is truly in the melanin."

I was supposed to write the review for Magic in the Melanin months ago, but I was so disappointed in the product that I had to sit out of the promotional run. Magic in the Melanin is an Adult Fantasy anthology of 14 short stories from various authors highlighting Blackity Black magical experiences. As much as I wanted to be excited about this novel, in my heart, I knew I had grabbed a copy because of FOMO. I didn't want to be left out of the culture. Plus, I saw there were a couple of authors I loved and a few I wanted to check out, so I gave it a shot. 

I grappled with most of these stories, often opting to skip around until I ultimately DNFed the book. The experience left me feeling extremely bored, and I firmly believe another edit run is necessary. I appreciated the idea of bringing upcoming artists to give each chapter a graphic look at the stories. I even checked out work from some authors whose writing interests me. However, my attention couldn't be held long enough before I moved on. 

Overall, I did not rate the book. I applaud what the Magic in Melanin Library tried to accomplish, and I believe in the potential of this project. However, more work still needs to be done before creating a big project like this again. I see the vision and ideas, but the execution still needs to be worked on. This may be a new hill I'll die on when it comes to supporting my people, and I feel it's one I will not regret. I love y'all, but do better.

Magic in the Melanin is available now!

#TheLittLibrarian #Review #Fantasy #ShortStories