12-year-old Mwikali is moving to a new school in Nairobi and just wants life to be normal. But when she meets Soni, Odwar and Xirsi who reveal that she is descended from an ancient bloodline of legendary Kenyan warriors, all hope of a normal life fades. Now, with an array of malign forces massing, Mwikali must delve deep into the past to discover her ancestry, learn to harness her extraordinary powers, and enter a race against time to defeat a village elder who has turned to dark magic in an effort to gain ultimate power... A fantasy adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat right to the moment of its breath-taking conclusion.
Georgia Children’s Book Awards Finalist 2024
UKLA Book Awards Longlist 2024
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Shiko Nguru is a Kenyan author and content creator, sharing her motherhood journey in the most genuine and beautiful way she can @ShikoNguru. Mwikali and the Forbidden Mask is her debut novel, inspired by her love of East African mythology.
Praise for the Series:
“This was a gripping fast paced fantasy story and I found it engrossing! If you enjoy fantasy stories full of magic and adventure I would definitely recommend this!”
-TOPPSTA
“This is an exciting fantasy adventure – with an urgent mystery to solve and a surprise ending. A range of themes are covered – including the idea that true power comes from believing in yourself, using your skills, learning to trust and cooperate with others. The good news for young readers hungry for more, is that this is the first in a new series about the Intasimi warriors.”
-Book for Keeps, 5 Stars
"Nguru's series-opening debut is rich in the mythology and beauty of Kenya. Mwikali's path from self-doubt to confidence inspires, and her struggles with friendship feel universal. A handful of charming full-page illustrations enhance the work. A heartfelt page-turner."
-Kirkus Reviews
“With its important lessons about self-acceptance and its action-packed scenes of fighting monsters, Mwikali and the Forbidden Mask is a delightful fantasy novel.”
-Foreword Reviews, 5 Stars
“A fantastic introduction to Kenyan culture and a great story too!”
-Karen Sands-O’Conner, British Academy Global Professor of Children's Literature
