Saniyya Sidney Joins Star-Studded Cast of ‘Children of Blood and Bone’

‘Children of Blood and Bone’ is a 2018 romantic fantasy novel by Nigerian-American author Tomi Adeyemi. It’s her first book and the start of the ‘Legacy of Orïsha’ trilogy. The story follows Zélie Adebola, a young girl trying to bring magic back to the kingdom of Orïsha after the ruling class, the kosidáns, wiped out the maji, her people who once wielded magic.

Adeyemi spent 18 months and 45 drafts writing the novel, drawing inspiration from books like ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘An Ember in the Ashes,’ West African mythology, and Yoruba culture. She was also influenced by the pain of police violence against Black Americans.

The book was a huge success. It debuted at number one on ‘The New York Times’ Best Seller list for young adult books and received praise for tackling themes like oppression, racism, and slavery. It’s also a coming-of-age tale about young people finding the power to make change.

Following lengthy development, the film has officially started filming. Before ‘Children of Blood and Bone’ was even published, the film rights were picked up by Fox 2000 Pictures and Temple Hill Productions, known for movies like ‘Love, Simon’ and ‘The Hate U Give.’ In 2019, Rick Famuyiwa was named the director, and author Tomi Adeyemi mentioned her dream cast including Idris Elba as Saran and Viola Davis as Mama Agba.

The lineup also includes Regina King (rumored as Queen Nehanda), Bukky Bakray (rumored as Binta), and Cynthia Erivo as Admiral Kaea.

The latest addition to the cast is Saniyya Sidney. Sidney is known for roles in Fences, Hidden Figures, and King Richard, where she played young Venus Williams. She has earned multiple award nominations, including Critics’ Choice and Screen Actors Guild Awards, for her standout performances in film and TV. It’s unknown which role Sidney will portray in the movie.

Set in the fictional land of Orïsha, the story follows Zélie Adebola, a young divîner oppressed after magic was wiped out and her people brutally targeted by King Saran. When Zélie and her brother Tzain encounter Princess Amari, the king’s daughter, fleeing with a stolen magical scroll, they join forces to restore magic to Orïsha. With Zélie’s power as a Reaper awakening, they embark on a dangerous journey to bring hope back to their people while evading the ruthless king.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments below!