SuitabookGoldenborn
Ama Ofosua Lieb
- Reading
- If the opening feels unclear, read a few chapters before deciding whether the world is settling into place. Keep track of magical terms and alliances, and pause to discuss Ghanaian mythology, family choices and the portrayal of power.
- Themes
- Power, belief and difficult choices: Akoma may gain ancestral power and must consider a dangerous offer connected with helping her father, while lying to people she loves may be involved. The story appears to explore the tension between using frightening power and remaining true to one’s beliefs; it does not make the final moral judgement clear here.
- Family, grief and loyalty: Akoma investigates after her father enters a coma, while her relationship with her grandmother is described as central and marked by empathy, loyalty and willingness to sacrifice. The book presents this favourably.
- Ghanaian mythology and diaspora identity: The story centres Ghanaian gods and mages and depicts AfricaTown as a community where cultures from many African countries come together. Cultural heritage and diaspora life are presented as vivid, significant parts of the world, rather than merely background to the investigation.
- Worth knowing
- Expect graphic fantasy violence, including sword attacks involving severed limbs and heads, a shooting and characters carrying guns. Romance includes flirtation, a passionate kiss and internal fantasising; occasional mild profanity and an adult smoking are also present.