Akata Witch

Akata Witch
Nnedi Okorafor
Viking, 2011 349 pages
Grades 7-9
Fantasy

Twelve-year-old Sunny's family has relocated from the US to Nigeria. Although her parents are originally from the West African country, Sunny has a hard time adjusting to her new surroundings, both as an American and as an albino, making her stand out in an uncomfortable way. After befriending classmate Orlu and his neighbor, Chichi, Sunny begins to realize that there are even more traits unusual about her. She is slowing awakening magical powers, yet is from an un-magical family and has no idea how to harness them. Her new friends introduce her to a secretly hidden magical world and their teacher. The teacher introduces the trio to a fourth student, also from the states, Sasha, and the four become a team. Sunny discovers powers within herself beyond her wildest dreams, as she cultivates the new friendships, and unearths secrets from her family's past. The new team of fledglings is sent on various starter tasks, only to be challenged with the biggest mission of all: to attempt to take down the corrupt magician who is kidnapping and killing small children in order to gain more power. Does the young team have enough juju to bring the powerful demon down and to save the day?

This is a big year for West African mythology (Children of Blood and Bone) and it was weird to read two books influenced by it at the same time. This book was originally released seven years ago and was re-leased in paperback last fall with a jazzy new cover (see above) simultaneously with the sequel, Akata Warrior. Comparisons have been made with the Harry Potter series and I see where these folks are coming from, but this series is purely original in many different ways. That said, it certainly will appeal to Potter fans, as well as those of Rick Rhiordan. The plot moves quickly, the characters are relate-able and likable, and the hidden magical land and lore is very cool. Many kids fantasize about being secretly magical and are just waiting for their powers to assert themselves. Okorafor's series will speak to that desire in a believable and entertaining way. Kids that feel a little different will be validated by Sunny's albinism, Orlu's learning disabilities, ChiChi's temper, and Sasha's penchant for falling into trouble. Sunny also strikes a blow for feminism, as she plays in a boy's only soccer competition and performs well. Certainly a page turner, readers will root for Sunny and her friends and breath a contented sigh of satisfaction as the story draws to a close.