Get the details on Beasts of Prey.
By
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/headshot-b5dc24df8d5d43d1a16c9ce0e0383119.jpg "Exclusive: Ayana Gray's new YA book trilogy combines 'monsters, mythos, and #BlackGirlMagic' (1)")
Sydney Bucksbaum is a writer at Entertainment Weekly covering all things pop culture – but TV is her one true love. She currently lives in Los Angeles but grew up in Chicago so please don't make fun of her accent when it slips out.
Published on August 20, 2020
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Ayana-Gray-4-c3d6482f13c2496c917069830cff4f29.jpg "Exclusive: Ayana Gray's new YA book trilogy combines 'monsters, mythos, and #BlackGirlMagic' (2)")
The hunt for your next YA fantasy book trilogy obsession has ended.
EW can exclusively announce that Putnam Books for Young Readers has acquired Ayana Gray's Beasts of Prey trilogy, about two Black teenagers who go on an adventure to hunt the ancient creature attacking their home. It's set for publication in spring 2022.
The highly anticipated book series "combines monsters, mythos, and #BlackGirlMagic" as the two teens journey into a magical jungle to find the monster plaguing them before they become the hunted, according to the official synopsis. Full of exciting fantasy world-building and complex characters, Beasts of Prey promises "a twist you won't see coming."
Gray was inspired by her own culture to write the trilogy. "Growing up, I fell in love with stories steeped in magic, and promised myself that one day I'd write my very own that allowed me to celebrate and explore my heritage and my roots," the author says in a statement. "As soon as I connected with… the Penguin team, I knew my book had found its home and was in the right hands. I'm excited to share this story with the world, and especially with readers who haven't seen themselves centered in magical stories nearly enough."
Beasts of Prey will mark Gray's first published novel. She received degrees with honors in both political science and African and African-American Studies at the University of Arkansas.
Related content:
As an avid enthusiast and expert in literature, particularly within the realm of YA fantasy, I bring a wealth of knowledge and insight to the table. My extensive engagement with diverse book genres and in-depth exploration of literary landscapes allows me to provide a comprehensive understanding of the concepts mentioned in the article about Ayana Gray's Beasts of Prey trilogy.
Firstly, let's delve into the core elements of the announcement. Putnam Books for Young Readers acquiring Ayana Gray's Beasts of Prey trilogy marks a significant milestone in the realm of YA fantasy literature. The trilogy revolves around two Black teenagers embarking on an adventurous quest to confront an ancient creature threatening their home. This premise immediately sets the stage for an intriguing narrative that combines elements of fantasy, mythology, and the powerful theme of #BlackGirlMagic.
The official synopsis teases a magical jungle setting, emphasizing monsters and mythos. This hints at a rich and immersive world-building that is characteristic of compelling fantasy narratives. Gray's promise of a surprising twist adds an element of anticipation for readers, suggesting that the trilogy will offer unexpected turns and revelations.
The author's personal inspiration for the trilogy adds a layer of authenticity to the work. Ayana Gray draws from her own cultural background, expressing a commitment to celebrating and exploring her heritage. This not only infuses the narrative with a unique perspective but also reflects a broader trend in literature where diverse voices are gaining prominence, allowing readers to encounter stories that resonate with their own experiences.
Ayana Gray's educational background, with degrees in political science and African and African-American Studies from the University of Arkansas, further underscores her depth of knowledge and the potential for a nuanced exploration of cultural themes within Beasts of Prey.
In summary, the Beasts of Prey trilogy appears poised to make a significant impact in the YA fantasy genre, blending adventure, culture, and #BlackGirlMagic in a narrative that promises both excitement and cultural resonance. Gray's personal connection to the material, along with her academic background, positions her as a skilled storyteller with the capacity to weave a captivating tale that resonates with a diverse audience.
