First off, I would highly recommend you read this book rather than listen to it if you have trouble with accents, which I do. So I probably missed quite a bit of the plot. It sounded cool, but sometimes I couldn't figure out what the narrator was saying. So with that being said, let me continue.
I enjoy reading books with a different cultural background than me. I feel like I learn so much. So this one, based in African heritage, fit the bill. Children also had a bonus in that the central or even side plot was not about romance, or about someone who suddenly realizes she has super powers and will destroy the government with it. Yeah, there is a hint of it, but it's not the same plot as so many others. This one showed true character change, flaws, and all with an exception cast of characters. The relationship between the brother and sister was extremely refreshing and I loved their love/hate relationship.
I wish, however, that I had read the author's note at the beginning of the book. I think I would have caught much more parallels between today's racial tensions and the book. But, regardless, it was pretty obvious so hopefully I got most of the gist. The students really loved the book and can't wait for the second to come out.