Conclusion

This is a book about marginalization, powerlessness, and oppression. The author wrote this book inspired by the needless violence against black people by the police. Although a one-sided power imbalance inspired her, she created a world where those that are oppressed have the most potential for power. In the fights between awakened maji and royal guards, the maji respond with deadly force, sparing no lives and showing no guilt or remorse. This display of violence makes Inan return to the view that magic should be destroyed and makes Zélie wonder if returning magic to all would be a good idea. 

Is fear of retaliatory violence in the face of oppression a justifiable reason to keep marginalized people oppressed? Do oppressors deserve violence against them because of the transgressions they have perpetuated against others? Will participating in violence against oppressors create a cycle of violence and oppression?

These are questions that may not have a correct answer. It is up to you to decide for yourself, but this book will provide insights that will lead to answering these questions.