From Powells.com
Hot new releases and under-the-radar gems for adults and kids.
Staff Pick
Nnamdi tries to find out who killed his father, the former chief of police. A gift from his father’s ghost imbues him with superpowers which Nnamdi uses to enact vigilante justice, rooting out corruption in his village. Set in southeastern Nigeria, and full of vibrant and colorful characters, Ikenga is a delightful read. Recommended By Mary Jo S., Powells.com
Synopses & Reviews
Nnedi Okorafor's first novel for middle grade readers introduces a boy who can access super powers with the help of the magical Ikenga.
Nnamdi's father was a good chief of police, perhaps the best Kalaria had ever had. He was determined to root out the criminals that had invaded the town. But then he was murdered, and most people believed the Chief of Chiefs, most powerful of the criminals, was responsible. Nnamdi has vowed to avenge his father, but he wonders what a twelve-year-old boy can do. Until a mysterious nighttime meeting, the gift of a magical object that enables super powers, and a charge to use those powers for good changes his life forever. How can he fulfill his mission? How will he learn to control his newfound powers?
Award-winning Nnedi Okorafor, acclaimed for her Akata novels, introduces a new and engaging hero in her first novel for middle grade readers set against a richly textured background of contemporary Nigeria.
Review
"With its enduring themes, charismatic characters and exhilarating events, Ikenga powerfully shows spiritual and fantastical elements confronting real-world problems." Shelf Awareness
Review
"While the themes of good vs. evil and vigilante justice will seem familiar, Okorafor has created unique, multifaceted characters that will have young readers hoping for Nnamdi's next adventure." School Library Journal
Review
"[Okorafor] creates a believable, flawed superhero....A memorable middle-grade murder mystery that's darkly humorous in some places and delightfully creepy in others." Kirkus Reviews
About the Author
Nnedi Okorafor is the daughter of Nigerian-born (Igbo) parents. She grew up in the Chicago area, with frequent trips back to Nigeria. There she absorbed the history and mythology that infuse her works of science fiction and fantasy. She has received the Hugo, the Nebula, the World Fantasy Award, and the Locus Award for her work, and her fans include Neil Gaiman, Rick Riordan, John Green, and Ursula Le Guin. Ms. Okorafor holds a PhD in English. She lives with her daughter in the suburbs of Chicago.