Summary: Kaya Morgan’s Crowning Achievement
Kaya and her dad shared a love for the Renaissance Fair before he died, and he always envisioned her becoming queen of the fair. So when she comes back to attend camp at the fair two years after his death, she’s determined to win the role of Queen–the first Black Queen of the fair. Imagine her disappointment when she gets the role of Court Jester. Can she win the crown? Is the dream worth holding on to?
The Good
As someone who has no Renaissance experience or affinity, I was prepared to be bored to tears by this book. Instead, it hooked me in the first chapter with Kaya’s voice and personality and the way the author brings the Renaissance fair to life. Whether or not you love the fair, prepare to be immersed in this setting as you see Kaya and the other kids learn about their roles and get to know each other as well.
Kaya is also still navigating her grief two years after her father’s death, but the author deftly balances her grief with many moments of levity. Kaya’s love for the fair is so pure and also inextricably linked to her love for her father. However, the author explores the idea that because of the Victorian setting of the typical Renaissance fair, many fairs tend not to have room for people of color like Kaya. Kaya’s brother also pushes back on her attraction to the fair for this reason. Still, I enjoyed the nuanced approach Tew takes in showing young people that their choices don’t always have to be perfectly understood by everyone — even those who love them.
This book touches on the racism and microaggression Kaya faces, being pigeon-holed by some people at the fair, while also getting used as a marketing device. Despite all the challenges she faces, Kaya is absolutely determined to score the role of her dreams and sometimes this causes her to neglect other important elements of being at summer camp, like building good friendships or just having a good time and we see Kaya eventually find a balance on both fronts, overcoming obstacles and finding friends who care — all making for a satisfying conclusion.
Kaya Morgan’s Crowning Achievement
Kaya Morgan’s Crowning Achievement is a heartwarming story about defying stereotypes and fulfilling your dreams. A Black girl’s love letter to the Renaissance fair, this story is about family, losing a loved one, racism and microaggressions, finding true friends, and holding on to your passion even though it doesn’t make sense to everyone around you. I loved the strong summer vibes in this one, and if you love all things Renaissance, this is one not to be missed.
Star Rating
Content Notes
Here are some specifics to know about the content.
Content Warnings
- Death: None on the page. Kaya’s dad died two years ago.
- Alcohol/substance abuse: None
- Sexual content: None.
- Violence: None
- Religious content: None.
- Language: None
Diversity
- Ethnic: Characters are Black, white, and Japanese American.
- Sexual orientation: None.
Recommended for ages: 9+
Good for kids who like:
- Stories about handling racism
- The Renaissance fair
- Stories about unlikely friendships
- Summer camp stories
Publisher Details
| Publisher details | Freedom Fire |
| Author: | Jill Tew |
| Illustrator: | N/A |
| Publication date: | April 1, 2025 |
| Audiobook? | No |
| Page count: | 288 |
| Cover artists | Designer: |
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