Week 5: Akata Witch

So far, my favorite thing I have read for this class is Nnedi Okorafor’s novel Akata Witch. Something about the world and characters of this book really brought me back to the kind of literature I enjoyed in elementary and middle school. The protagonist, Sunny, is exactly the kind of character I would have looked up to when I was a kid her age. She is bold, courageous, and intelligent. Despite being thrust into a world of magic she doesn’t understand, Sunny is able to awaken her true power and find the spirit face that has always dwelled inside. Initially, she perceived her albinism as a disadvantage in her life. However, after the learning the ways of the Leopard People, Sunny discovers that it is this unique trait that determines her special set of juju abilities. I really liked this element of the book’s world, as it takes insecurities and turns them into strengths. Another example is the character Orlu, who derived his power from his dyslexia. I imagine this would make a lot of young readers wonder which trait of theirs would manifest as magical powers if they were a character in this story, and what area of magic would they specialize in. It might allow them to view their personal "disadvantages" in a different light.

While there is a relatively balanced mix of male and female characters in Akata Witch, it is the women who really shine. Chichi and Sunny form a unique friendship throughout the story that was very fun to watch develop. While things were initially tense between the two, it is Chichi who initially brings Sunny into the world of Leopard People. That is only the first of many instances of female characters helping each other out. Along the way, many adult characters are introduced as scholars and mentors, like Taiwo and Sugar Cream. These women possess great wisdom and power, as they are two of only four Leopard People in the area to reach the fourth level of juju ability. Each has an important lesson to offer. During the students’ visit to Taiwo, she teaches them the importance of treating all life with humanity and respect, even her giant pet bird. It is these positive messages and amazing world-building that made this a great read with so many interesting characters and dynamics. I am glad this class gave me to opportunity to experience the world of Akata Witch.