The character of Alina was not described as biracial in the books, but IGN says in an interview that author Leigh and show-runner Eric Heisserer decided to make Alina biracial in part due to lead actress Jessie Mei Li's incredible audition, but also to emphasize the bond between her and fellow biracial orphan Mal (Archie Renaux). 

However, many BIPOC readers and audience members have objected to the way Alina's identity is handled. The main area of concern is that the discrimination that's repeatedly inflicted upon her character alone was unnecessary and potentially harmful to biracial viewers. You can read some of the Twitter threads below about this important criticism of the show. 

Ultimately, if the show does get an already highly sought-after Season 2, fans hope that the writers will listen to their concerns and move forward in a different direction. Several key book characters are Shu and could present an opportunity to connect with Alina's heritage positively.

Shadow & Bone is now streaming exclusively on Netflix.