Literature Reviews - 2025

Book Review: Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia

Introduction

Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky is the first book in the Tristan Strong trilogy, published in 2019 under the Rick Riordan Presents imprint. This middle-grade fantasy novel weaves African and African American folklore into an action-packed adventure featuring Tristan Strong, a seventh-grader grappling with grief, family expectations, and the power of storytelling. With themes of mythology, slavery, and identity, the book is both an engaging fantasy and an important exploration of Black cultural heritage.

Plot Summary

After losing his best friend Eddie in a tragic bus accident, twelve-year-old Tristan Strong is sent to his grandparents’ farm in Alabama for the summer. Haunted by survivor’s guilt, he carries Eddie’s journal, a collection of stories they shared. One night, a strange, mischievous creature called Gum Baby tries to steal the journal, and in the process of retrieving it, Tristan accidentally punches a bottle tree—tearing open a rift into a magical world called Alke.

Alke is a land where African American folk heroes, such as John Henry and Brer Rabbit, coexist with West African deities like Anansi. However, the land is under threat from monstrous beings tied to the trauma of slavery, including King Cotton and the fetterlings—creatures made of shackles. Tristan discovers that he has a special power as an Anansesem (a storyteller with magical abilities) and must embark on a quest to mend the hole in the sky, restore balance to Alke, and ultimately come to terms with his grief.

Strengths of the Novel

1. Cultural Representation and Mythological Depth

One of the book’s most significant achievements is its celebration of African and African American folklore. Mbalia seamlessly integrates figures like John Henry, High John the Conqueror, and Brer Rabbit, while also incorporating West African legends, particularly Anansi the trickster god. The novel bridges two traditions—African mythology and Black American folklore—acknowledging the cultural heritage that survived the Middle Passage.

Moreover, the book does not shy away from addressing the horrors of slavery. Villains like King Cotton, the bone ships, and the fetterlings serve as metaphorical representations of historical oppression. This thematic depth adds a layer of historical significance that is rare in middle-grade fantasy.

2. Strong Themes of Grief and Healing

Tristan’s emotional journey is central to the story. He struggles with the death of Eddie, survivor’s guilt, and the pressure to live up to his family’s expectations. His path to healing is intertwined with his growth as a storyteller—learning to embrace his own voice and the power of his words. The novel’s portrayal of grief is honest and moving, making it resonate beyond its fantasy elements.

3. Unique Take on Storytelling as a Superpower

Unlike typical fantasy protagonists who wield weapons or elemental powers, Tristan’s strength lies in storytelling. As an Anansesem, he can shape reality through words, reinforcing the idea that stories hold power. This is a refreshing departure from the traditional hero’s journey and emphasizes the importance of oral traditions, particularly in African cultures.

4. Engaging Humor and Memorable Side Characters

The book balances its heavy themes with humor, much of it driven by the character Gum Baby—a tiny but fierce doll with an outsized personality. Tristan himself has a snarky, relatable voice, making him an engaging narrator. Other characters, including the weary yet wise John Henry and the reluctant mentor Anansi, add depth and variety to the cast.

5. Rich World-Building

Alke is a vividly imagined world, blending familiar landmarks with mythical elements. The burning sea, haunted bone ships, and eerie iron monsters create an atmospheric setting that feels distinct from other fantasy realms. The combination of African spiritual traditions and Southern folklore gives the book a fresh and unique backdrop.

Criticisms of the Novel

1. Overcomplicated Plot and Pacing Issues

Some reviewers found the book’s plot overly complex, with too many twists, side quests, and characters introduced at a rapid pace. While the story is action-packed, it sometimes feels overwhelming, making it difficult to keep track of all the elements. The pacing, especially in the middle of the book, can feel uneven, with some sections dragging while others rush through important developments.

2. Confusing Spatial Descriptions

One of the biggest technical flaws noted in reviews is the inconsistency in describing locations and actions. There are moments when characters appear in places where they logically shouldn’t be, or when the movement in action scenes is hard to visualize. This issue disrupts the immersion and can make certain passages frustrating to read.

3. Heavy Themes That May Go Over Younger Readers’ Heads

While the book’s exploration of slavery and cultural identity is powerful, some of the deeper allegories—such as the Middle Passage references and the divide between African and African American mythology—may be difficult for middle-grade readers to fully grasp. This makes the book more suitable for guided reading with discussion, rather than independent reading for younger audiences.

4. Length and Complexity for Middle-Grade Readers

At nearly 500 pages, the book is longer than most middle-grade novels. Some younger readers might find the length intimidating, and the dense mythology may require additional background knowledge to fully appreciate. The narrative sometimes assumes familiarity with certain cultural references, which could make it challenging for readers unfamiliar with African and African American folklore.

Final Verdict

Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky is a groundbreaking middle-grade fantasy that brings African and African American folklore to life in a meaningful and engaging way. While it has some pacing and clarity issues, its rich cultural depth, emotional resonance, and fresh take on storytelling make it a valuable addition to the Rick Riordan Presents imprint.

Who Should Read This Book?

• Readers who enjoy mythology-based fantasy, especially fans of Percy Jackson and Aru Shah.
• Middle-grade readers (and older) interested in African and African American folklore.
• Teachers and parents looking for books that spark discussions on history, identity, and storytelling.

Who Might Struggle with This Book?

• Younger readers who prefer straightforward plots and shorter books.
• Those unfamiliar with African mythology, as the book assumes some cultural knowledge.
• Readers who struggle with complex action sequences and rapid plot developments.

Conclusion

Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky is more than just another mythology-based adventure—it is a powerful exploration of history, identity, and the stories that shape us. Kwame Mbalia’s imaginative world-building and heartfelt storytelling make it an important read, particularly for those seeking diverse narratives in children’s literature. Despite its flaws, it remains a significant and worthwhile book that deserves a place on every young reader’s shelf.