Ikenga

By Nnedi Okorafor

A boy gains superpowers to avenge his father's murder. Can he succeed?

3.8/5 Goodreads · 2,004 ratings

229 pages· 51,178 words· Est. 6.5 hour read-aloud

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Bookroo's summary

Twelve-year-old Nnamdi is determined to avenge his father's murder, a revered police chief in Kalaria. When a mysterious encounter grants him superpowers through the magical Ikenga, Nnamdi faces the daunting task of confronting the town's most feared criminal. As he grapples with his newfound abilities, he must learn to wield them wisely. Can Nnamdi fulfill his mission and bring justice to his father's legacy, or will the power prove too much for him to handle? Dive into a tale of courage and magic set in the vibrant backdrop of contemporary Nigeria.

From the publisher

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.

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