This interview originally appeared in the May/June 2025 Horn Book Magazine as part of the Publishers’ Previews: Diverse Books, an advertising supplement that allows participating publishers a chance to each highlight a book from its current list. They choose the books; we ask the questions.

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Craig Kofi Farmer’s novel A Method for Magic and Misfortune gives its hero a powerful book of magic spells and a powerful magic mentor — but magic can be tricky.

Photo: Alexandra Johnson.

1. What’s a book you couldn’t skim if you wanted to?

The Battle of the Labyrinth from the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. The story is atmospheric, funny, and intensely engaging. It manages to prioritize impactful character moments while deepening the larger series lore. Every time I reread this story, there’s a new gem waiting for me in the pages…so I can’t afford to skim!

2. When did you have to perform a task that was a lot more complicated than you had anticipated?

Honestly, publishing a book. With my debut novel [Kwame Crashes the Underworld], I didn’t expect such a collaborative process. I didn’t expect so many rounds of editing or think about glossaries, maps, dedications, author notes, or cover artists. My publishing career started with an individual idea (“I should write a book!”) and evolved into a collective journey (“we should craft the most engaging reading experience possible!”).

3. Do you believe in magic?

This might sound corny, but I believe in the magic of life. I believe there’s magic in being self-aware, in feeling emotions, in loving others, and in our ability to connect with people, animals, plants, and the larger universe. This belief pushes me to keep exploring, learning, and being grateful for another day in this world of magic.

4. Have you ever trusted someone you shouldn’t have?

Of course! I think many people have had that experience. Broken trust can be heart wrenching, but we should be brave enough to trust again and to acknowledge that others could let us down — but we’re choosing to believe in them. I encourage others to be like [protagonist] Marcus; keep your eyes open for red flags in your relationships, but don’t let distrust pull you away from everything and everyone.

5. What is your touchstone?

My fictional touchstone? The ability to teleport. My real touchstone? My mind’s ability to live in the imaginary worlds it’s created — which comes in handy with storytelling and world-building.

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