In 1970s Boston, a Black teen navigates first love, family secrets, and the aftermath of the Civil Rights era as he investigates his mother’s persistent claims of being from Saturn, only to uncover dangerous truths about his parents’ revolutionary past. Blending coming-of-age, historical trauma, and hints of science fiction, the story explores identity, generational legacy, and the blurred lines between reality and myth.

Reader Review Summary

Set in 1970s Boston, the novel follows Sean, a Black teenager whose mother, Sojourner, claims to be from Saturn. The story unfolds in the aftermath of the Civil Rights era and the decline of COINTELPRO, with Sean's parents having been involved in a Black power group that drew FBI attention and ended in violence. As Sean grows up, he immerses himself in science fiction, fantasy, and comic books, distancing himself from his family's history until strange events force him to confront the truth about his parents' past and his mother's otherworldly claims. The narrative blends elements of coming-of-age, historical fiction, and science fiction, incorporating themes of family, identity, and the lingering effects of political activism, all set against a backdrop of funk music, roller skates, and first love.

Readers appreciated the relationship between Sean and his mother, Sojourner, highlighting their dynamic as a central strength of the novel. The writing and characterization were noted positively, with some reviewers mentioning the book's ability to linger in their thoughts after finishing. The opening chapter and the integration of supernatural hints with the fallout from the civil rights movement were also praised. Some readers found the book to be a quick and enjoyable read, and the depiction of Sean's love of comics and the coming-of-age journey resonated with them.

Some readers expressed dissatisfaction with the pacing, describing the book as rushed or wishing for a more developed narrative, particularly in blending the coming-of-age and conspiracy/surveillance plotlines. Criticisms included a lack of depth in world-building, one-dimensional or opaque characters, and a main character that some found unlikable. The sci-fi elements were seen by some as detracting from the historical aspects, with questions raised about whether these elements were literal or metaphorical. Certain scenes, such as an intimate moment between Sean and his lover, were viewed as unnecessary, and some felt the story ultimately failed to deliver on its potential as a historical educational piece.

The book is under 200 pages and is scheduled for publication on April 22, 2025, by CLASH Books. It has received 15 reader ratings with an average rating of 3.67 out of 5, and 8 full reader reviews. The genres include science fiction and historical fiction, and the author is Errick Nunnally. The novel was made available to some readers as an advance review copy through NetGalley, and several reviewers noted their gratitude for early access.