A conversation with Tomi Adeyemi on her new novel 'The Siren'
In this episode of NPR's Book of the Day, author Tomi Adeyemi discusses her new novel "The Sirens," which follows a first-generation college student drawn to an exclusive and dangerous social group on campus. Adeyemi shares how her own experience in a Harvard social club inspired the story, though she intentionally reimagined it to explore the psychological costs of pursuing acceptance and power. The conversation also covers how Adeyemi's decade-long writing career has been shaped by isolation and emotional pain, with her work serving as a lifeline for readers facing their own struggles.
The episode addresses Adeyemi's shift from fantasy to contemporary fiction, her controversial public statement about the "Children of Blood and Bone" film adaptation, and her approach to social media engagement. Throughout the discussion, Adeyemi explains how themes of belonging, mental health, and the universal nature of pain inform her storytelling across both genres.
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"The Sirens" Novel: Themes Of Belonging, Mental Health, Sorority's Dark Appeal
Tomi Adeyemi's novel, "The Sirens," explores themes of belonging, mental health, and the dangerous allure of exclusive social groups through Emery, a first-generation Dartmouth freshman who feels out of place until she encounters the Sirens—an enigmatic group of captivating women on campus. Despite warnings, Emery is irresistibly drawn to their power, understanding that pursuing them means risking self-destruction and damaging her relationships. She hopes joining the Sirens will give her control over her life and transform her beyond her circumstances.
Adeyemi draws inspiration from her sophomore year experience in a Harvard finals club, an all-female social group where she found camaraderie through dinners, dancing, and laughter. However, she intentionally reimagines the fictional Sirens as darker and more sinister to explore the psychological costs of pursuing acceptance and power within elite circles.
Isolation and Mental Health in Adeyemi's Writing
Adeyemi describes her decade-long writing career as shaped by intense emotional pain and isolation, visiting "dark, dark pain" and "deep, deep, lonely, isolated places." These experiences inform her authentic portrayals of suffering. She recounts fans telling her that her books served as lifelines during psychiatric ward stays, rehab, or other challenging moments—sometimes literally keeping them alive.
Through these interactions, Adeyemi has learned that pain is universal, but isolation magnifies its danger. She emphasizes that when a character, story, or song can "meet you in that loneliness," it breaks the isolation and provides hope. Her work intentionally validates readers' pain and bridges the gap between isolation and recovery, using fiction as a guide out of emotional darkness.
Adeyemi's Shift From Fantasy to Contemporary Fiction
Adeyemi recalls how the 2015 Charleston church shooting left her feeling vulnerable and questioning her future. Fantasy worldbuilding became her "oxygen tank," allowing her to process real-world darkness in a space where she could breathe. While fantasy still engaged with harsh realities, it provided necessary distance for her to cope emotionally.
With "the Sirens," Adeyemi shifts to contemporary realistic fiction, marking a turning point in her stability. She describes standing in the real world "not with a spear, not with maybe magic coursing through my veins," but simply as herself. This willingness to write in a realistic setting demonstrates both artistic growth and deeper emotional stability—she no longer needs fantasy's escape to face real-world darkness.
"Children of Blood and Bone" Movie Scandal
After the "Children of Blood and Bone" movie trailer dropped, Adeyemi posted and then deleted a video denouncing the film and revealing mistreatment during production, calling it "the worst thing I have ever had to live through." She clarifies the controversy wasn't about creative disagreements but specific harmful behind-the-scenes incidents. Her decision to speak out came from recurring problems that prevented her from moving forward, though she was reluctant to discuss it publicly.
Adeyemi emphasizes she didn't want to take away what the project means to fans, especially young Black audiences, and acknowledges that speaking negatively about a Black-led project risks attracting unwanted attention. She now takes a neutral stance toward the film, viewing herself as a vessel who completed her spiritual calling and is ready to move on, stating, "I'm not against anyone."
Adeyemi's Social Media Approach
Adeyemi keeps comments open on social media as a principle, believing that closing them would be dictatorial and undermine authentic engagement. She views social media as inherently a two-way street and refuses to restrict commentary to just positive feedback. Adeyemi willingly accepts all audience feedback—supportive, critical, or negative—believing that people should always have the right to express their opinions about her as a public figure.
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Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While Adeyemi's portrayal of exclusive social groups as inherently dangerous or psychologically costly is compelling, some may argue that such groups can also foster genuine support, mentorship, and lifelong friendships, and that not all elite circles are harmful.
- The emphasis on isolation as a magnifier of pain is valid, but some readers may feel that fiction alone cannot bridge the gap between isolation and recovery, and that professional mental health support is often necessary.
- Adeyemi's shift from fantasy to contemporary fiction is presented as a sign of emotional stability and artistic growth, but others might view genre choice as a matter of creative preference rather than a reflection of personal well-being.
- Keeping social media comments open is described as a principled stance for authentic engagement, but some may argue that moderating or limiting comments can be necessary for protecting mental health and preventing harassment, especially for public figures.
- Adeyemi's reluctance to criticize a Black-led project is understandable, but some may contend that open and honest critique is essential for accountability and improvement, regardless of the project's cultural significance.
Actionables
- you can create a private reflection log where you track moments when you feel drawn to exclusive groups or social circles, noting what needs or insecurities are driving that attraction and how it affects your sense of belonging and mental health; over time, review your entries to spot patterns and make conscious choices about which communities genuinely support your well-being.
- a practical way to break cycles of isolation is to send a short, honest message to someone you trust (or even a support hotline) whenever you feel emotionally low, simply stating how you feel without expecting advice or solutions—this small act can help you practice reaching out and reduce the weight of loneliness.
- you can set a personal rule to leave comments open on your own social media posts, and when you receive criticism or negative feedback, respond with a neutral acknowledgment (like "thanks for sharing your thoughts") to build resilience and foster authentic, two-way engagement, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.
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"The Sirens" Novel: Themes Of Belonging, Mental Health, Sorority's Dark Appeal
Tomi Adeyemi’s novel, "The Sirens," explores deep themes of belonging, mental health, and the intoxicating yet dangerous pull of exclusive social groups. Central to the story is Emery, a freshman at Dartmouth College, who navigates these treacherous waters in search of transformation and power.
Emery Seeks Sirens For Power and Transformation
Emery, a Sheltered Dartmouth Freshman and First-Gen Student, Feels Out of Place Until Meeting the Sirens
Emery is portrayed as a sheltered young woman, the daughter of a maid and the first in her family to attend college. Despite this accomplishment, her mother's protective nature and frequent check-ins hint that Emery is struggling emotionally and mentally. Attempting to adapt to college life, Emery tries attending social events—such as a party with her roommate—but she cannot shake a persistent sense of discomfort and alienation.
Sirens Appeal to Emery Due to Their Enchanting Allure and Power, yet Pursuing Them Causes Self-Destruction and Relationship Damage
It is only when Emery encounters the Sirens, an enigmatic group of strikingly cool and alluring women on campus, that she becomes captivated. Despite being warned by others to steer clear of the Sirens, Emery is irresistibly drawn to their magnetic presence. Adeyemi compares their appeal to their mythological counterparts: alluring, enchanting, and dangerous. The pull toward the Sirens signifies not only the desire for belonging and power but also an awareness of self-destruction. Emery understands that, in chasing acceptance from the Sirens, she is risking harm to herself and her relationships, sacrificing connections with people she cares about at Dartmouth just to get closer to the group.
Emery Aims to Join the Sirens to Control Her Life, Not Be Victimized by It
Underlying Emery’s fascination is the desperate hope for transformation. She wants to become more than her upbringing and circumstances—to become someone powerful, a person in control of her destiny rather than always being at the mercy of life’s challenges. The Sirens represent the potential to be in command, and it is this possibility, fraught with peril, that drives Emery to pursue them even at the cost of self-destruction.
Inspired by All-female Harvard Social Group, Adeyemi
Sophomore Year Finals Club Involvement at Harvard
Tomi Adeyemi draws inspiration for the Sirens from her real-life experiences at Harvard. During her sophomore year, she became involved in a finals club, an all-female social group that ...
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"The Sirens" Novel: Themes Of Belonging, Mental Health, Sorority's Dark Appeal
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Counterarguments
- The portrayal of exclusive social groups as inherently dangerous or destructive may overlook the positive and supportive aspects that such communities can provide for some individuals.
- Emphasizing the self-destructive consequences of seeking belonging in elite circles could risk reinforcing stereotypes about women’s groups as toxic or harmful, rather than nuanced or empowering.
- The narrative focus on transformation through external validation (joining the Sirens) might underplay the importance of self-acceptance and internal growth.
- Drawing a direct parallel between real-life positive experiences in a finals club and the fictional, sinister Sirens could be seen as unfairly conflating or exaggerating the risks associated with such groups.
- The depiction of mental health struggles as primarily stemming from socia ...
Actionables
- you can create a personal checklist to evaluate the influence of any group you consider joining by listing your core values and mental health needs, then rating how well the group supports or challenges each one before making a commitment; for example, if a club emphasizes exclusivity or competition, note how that aligns with your need for belonging or emotional safety.
- a practical way to protect your sense of self while seeking new social circles is to set a recurring reminder to reflect on your recent behaviors and choices, asking yourself if you’re acting out of genuine interest or just to fit in; jot down one thing you did each week that felt true to you and one that felt forced, then adjust your involvement accordingly.
- you can experiment with building your ...
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Isolation and Mental Health in Adeyemi's Writing
Adeyemi's Emotional Pain Shapes Her Commitment To Exploring Mental Health and Loneliness In Her Storytelling
Adeyemi's Decade-Long Authorship Navigates Suffering and Emotional Isolation, Informing Her Work's Authenticity
Tomi Adeyemi describes her writing as an extension of her spirit, shaped by years marked by intense emotional pain and deep isolation. Over the last decade of writing publicly, she has visited “dark, dark pain” and “deep, deep, lonely, isolated places.” These experiences inform the authenticity and empathy woven through her books. Adeyemi identifies with characters who believe no one will ever meet them in their suffering, yet discovers through her writing that her stories can become a meeting point for hundreds of thousands, sometimes millions, of readers who share similar pain. This shared vulnerability, both in grief and trauma—such as losing a parent—gives her work deep resonance.
Adeyemi's Books Were Lifelines During Mental Health Crises, Including Psychiatric Wards and Rehab
Adeyemi recounts stories of fans approaching her during book signings and revealing how her books have been a literal lifeline for them. For some, her work offered solace during stays in psychiatric wards, rehab, or the uncertainty of waiting rooms. Readers have told her directly that her stories were the reason they are still alive, having sustained them during their most challenging moments.
Adeyemi Sees Widespread Human Suffering Everywhere, Worsened by Isolation
Through intimate interactions with her audience, Adeyemi learns about the universal nature of pain and suffering. She explains that, regardless of its source, such pain is everywhere. The most perilous aspect, she notes, is feeling isolated within that pain—the point at which loneliness can become dangerous and hope feels unreachable.
Fictional Characters Meeting Lonely Readers Can Heal and Provide Hope
Readers Connect and Break Their Isolation Cycle When a Character, Song, Podcast, or Story Acknowledges Their Emotional Solitude
Adeyemi emphasizes that when someone, whether a fictional character, podcast, audiobook, or song, can “meet you in that loneliness,” it breaks the isolation. This encounter becomes a critical turning point, providing a path out of darkness and towards light. Readers gain hope simply by feeling seen and understood within their solitude.
Adeyemi Emphasizes Mental Health in Her Work, Understand ...
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Isolation and Mental Health in Adeyemi's Writing
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While Adeyemi’s personal experiences inform her writing, some readers may not relate to her specific portrayal of pain and isolation, potentially limiting the universality of her message.
- The idea that fiction alone can serve as a lifeline during mental health crises may overlook the importance of professional mental health support and other forms of intervention.
- Emphasizing the healing power of stories might unintentionally minimize the complexity and severity of mental health struggles that require more than narrative validation.
- Not all readers may find hope or connection through fictional characters; for some, such narratives might not resonate or provide comfort.
- The focus on isolation as the most dangerous aspect of suffering may understate other critical factors in mental health crises, such as biological, social, or economic ...
Actionables
- you can write a short anonymous letter or note to someone you know is struggling, simply acknowledging their pain and letting them know they aren’t alone, then leave it somewhere they’ll find it (like a desk, mailbox, or book), to gently break the cycle of isolation without requiring a direct conversation
- This small gesture can help someone feel seen and understood, even if you don’t know exactly what they’re going through. For example, you might write, “I just wanted to say I see how hard things have been for you lately. You’re not alone, and I’m thinking of you.”
- a practical way to create a sense of shared space for those feeling isolated is to start a private journal where you write letters to fictional characters or real people who have helped you feel less alone, then reflect on how those connections (real or imagined) have supported you
- This helps you recognize the power of being acknowledged and can inspire you to reach out to others in similar ways. For instance, you might write to a character from a book who made you feel understood, or to a friend who once listened wit ...
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Adeyemi's Shift From Fantasy to Contemporary Fiction: Personal and Social Context
Author Used Fantasy Worldbuilding to Cope With Violence and Mortality Threats
Tomi Adeyemi recalls the summer of 2015, soon after her graduation, when news of the Charleston church shooting reached her while she was traveling abroad. The violent attack deeply unsettled her, leading to a feeling of a looming "death sentence" and questioning her own efforts and future, haunted by the fear that sudden violence could abruptly end her life. This sense of vulnerability and mortality was a defining force behind her early gravitation toward fantasy.
For Adeyemi, fantasy worldbuilding provided both confrontation and refuge. While dangers were still present in the worlds she created, the fantastical setting served as an "oxygen tank," offering space and air sufficient to allow her to process the darkness of the real world. Writing fantasy was not escapism in a simplistic sense—it was engagement with harsh realities, but in an environment that allowed her to breathe, reflect, and cope with distressing truths. Fantasy allowed Adeyemi a retreat from a world that otherwise felt oppressive and dark, enabling her to craft stories and survive emotionally.
Adeyemi's Shift to Contemporary Realistic Fiction in "the Sirens" Shows Her Stability to Face Real-World Darkness
With her new book, "the Sirens," Adeyemi marks a turning point: she chooses to situate her story in the real world, without the comfort of fantasy's magical buffers. She acknowledges that she has always written fantasy, finding it difficult to contend with the full weight of contemporary reality. However, this time, Adeyemi felt a mix of readiness and necessity pushing her to locate her narrative within a r ...
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Adeyemi's Shift From Fantasy to Contemporary Fiction: Personal and Social Context
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While Adeyemi describes fantasy as a means of engaging with difficult truths, some critics might argue that fantasy can still function as escapism, potentially avoiding direct confrontation with real-world issues.
- The idea that moving from fantasy to contemporary fiction represents greater personal stability or artistic growth could be challenged; many authors find equal depth and maturity in fantasy writing, and genre choice does not necessarily reflect emotional readiness.
- Some might contend that fantasy and contemporary fiction offer different, but equally valid, ways to process trauma and address social issues, rather than one being a progression from the other.
- The assertion that Adeyemi "no longer needs the escape fantasy offered" could be questioned, as writers often ret ...
Actionables
- you can create a personal journal where you alternate between writing about your real-life fears or challenges and then imagining how you would face them in a world with no magical solutions, helping you build emotional resilience and self-reflection skills.
- a practical way to process difficult emotions is to set aside a weekly time to write a letter to your future self describing how you’re handling current struggles without relying on fantasy or escapism, then reread these letters monthly to track your growth in facing reality.
- you can des ...
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"Children of Blood and Bone" Movie Scandal and Behind-The-scenes Events
Adeyemi Deleted Video on Mistreatment During Movie's Production
After the trailer for the "Children of Blood and Bone" movie dropped, Tomi Adeyemi posted—and then deleted—a video where she denounced the film and revealed she had been treated horribly during the production. Adeyemi describes the experience as "the worst thing I have ever had to live through." She clarifies that the controversy was not about creative disagreements or the film's adaptation itself. Instead, she refers to a specific behind-the-scenes situation that was extremely harmful and hurtful to her. Adeyemi had originally planned to cope with this ordeal privately, but as incidents continued to occur, she felt that her silence was no longer sustainable.
Adeyemi's Decision to Speak Was Driven by Incidents and a Realization That Silence Hindered Her Progress
Adeyemi explains that she was reluctant to discuss personal matters related to the production. Her motivation for finally breaking her silence stemmed from recurring problems behind the scenes that made it impossible for her to move forward in her own life and creative journey. She emphasizes that her choice to speak out was made for self-preservation—not to harm others, create scandal, or undermine what the project means to its fans. Adeyemi stresses her awareness of how much "Children of Blood and Bone" means to many, especially young Black children and adults. She states, "And I really didn't want to take that away from them. And I still don't really want to take that away from anyone. I mostly just needed to move forward myself."
She acknowledges that speaking up about problems on a Black-led film project risks attracting unwanted negativity, a pattern she notes "happens all the time" to Black projects. Adeyemi points out that she still questions whether coming forward was the right decision, but insists her actions were not meant to be malicious or vindictive.
Adeyemi Is Neutral Toward the Film
Reflecting on her experience, Adeyemi adopts a position of neutrality tow ...
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"Children of Blood and Bone" Movie Scandal and Behind-The-scenes Events
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While Adeyemi describes her experience as extremely negative, the specific details of the mistreatment are not provided, making it difficult for outsiders to fully assess the situation or the actions of others involved.
- Adeyemi’s neutrality toward the film may be interpreted by some as distancing herself from the project, which could unintentionally affect public perception of the film and its creators, regardless of her stated intentions.
- The decision to post and then delete a public denunciation could be seen as contributing to confusion or speculation among fans and the public, potentially fueling controversy rather than resolving it.
- Although Adeyemi emphasizes her intent not to harm the project or its significance to fans, public sta ...
Actionables
- you can create a private log to document any recurring negative experiences in group projects or workplaces, noting how each incident affects your well-being and progress, so you have a clear record if you ever need to address the situation or set boundaries.
- a practical way to protect your mental health during challenging collaborations is to set a recurring reminder to check in with yourself about your emotional state and decide if you need to step back, seek support, or communicate your needs to others.
- you can write a personal stateme ...
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Adeyemi's Social Media Approach: Engagement and Open Comments Despite Criticism
Adeyemi Keeps Comments Open On Social Media As a Principle
Tomi Adeyemi keeps her comments open on social media as a matter of principle, viewing it as an essential part of being a public person. She believes that social media is inherently a two-way street, not just a place to broadcast messages. Adeyemi sees the act of turning off comments as dictatorial and authoritative, as it silences diverse opinions from her audience. For her, honoring the public means respecting the platform's nature, which is built on open engagement and communication. She feels that closing comments would undermine the authentic exchange that social media enables.
Adeyemi Embraces all Audience Feedback, Not Just Praise
Adeyemi willingly accepts all kinds of feedback from her audience, acknowledging that as a public figure, she has limited control over public opinion. She refuses to restrict commentary to just positive moments or glamou ...
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Adeyemi's Social Media Approach: Engagement and Open Comments Despite Criticism
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Clarifications
- Tomi Adeyemi is a bestselling author known for her fantasy novels inspired by West African culture. Her social media approach is significant because she actively engages with a large, diverse audience, fostering open dialogue. This openness contrasts with many public figures who limit or disable comments to avoid criticism. Adeyemi's method highlights a commitment to transparency and authentic interaction in the digital age.
- A "public person" or "public figure" is someone widely recognized by the general public, often due to their work, achievements, or media presence. They have a larger audience and influence compared to private individuals. Their actions and statements are subject to public scrutiny and discussion. This status often comes with a responsibility to engage openly with the public.
- Some public figures turn off comments to avoid harassment, trolling, or overwhelming negativity. This helps protect their mental health and maintain a positive online environment. It can also prevent the spread of misinformation or harmful content. Additionally, managing comments can reduce the time and effort needed for moderation.
- Calling turning off comments "dictatorial and authoritative" implies that it resembles a leader or ruler who controls and limits freedom of expression. It suggests an unwillingness to allow diverse opinions or criticism. This comparison highlights a lack of openness and democratic engagement. It criticizes the act as suppressing dialogue rather than encouraging it.
- "Authentic exchange" on social media means genuine, honest interactions where people freely share diverse opinions and feelings. It involves open dialogue without censorship, allowing both praise and criticism. This openness fosters trust and deeper connections between public figures and their audience. Authentic exchange contrasts with one-sided communication that only highlights positive feedback.
- Positive feedback on social media includes compliments, praise, and supportive comments. Critical feedback points out flaws ...
Counterarguments
- Keeping comments open at all times can expose both the public figure and their audience to harassment, abuse, or harmful content, which may negatively impact mental health and community well-being.
- Moderating or limiting comments does not necessarily equate to being dictatorial; it can be a responsible action to foster a safer and more constructive online environment.
- Some social media platforms and public figures successfully use limited or curated comment sections to encourage meaningful dialogue while minimizing toxicity.
- The expectation that public figures must accept all forms of feedback, including negative or hostile comments, may place an ...
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1-Page Summary- "The Sirens" Novel: Themes Of Belonging, Mental Health, Sorority's Dark Appeal
- Isolation and Mental Health in Adeyemi's Writing
- Adeyemi's Shift From Fantasy to Contemporary Fiction: Personal and Social Context
- "Children of Blood and Bone" Movie Scandal and Behind-The-scenes Events
- Adeyemi's Social Media Approach: Engagement and Open Comments Despite Criticism
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