After their spectacular showdown against the Red Oloibon, Odwar and his friends are hoping for a bit of a breather. But Odwar has to find his Entasim – the powerful heirloom inherited from his warrior ancestor – and he has to find it now. The Shadow Queen, raging with anger at having been trapped in the shadow world for so long, has a new target in her sights. Can Odwar and his friends stop her from feeding on humanity’s darkest emotions and breaking into the light? An action-packed story of bravery and determination in which physical strength fails but strength of heart conquers all.
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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:
“Nguru’s sequel centers a different student at Nairobi’s Savanna Academy while maintaining the intrigue, action, and magic of the first entry. The Kenyan lore weaves a stunning background for the internal and external battles that unfold within and between Odwar and the Shadow Queen. The last few pages leave readers with a taste of what’s to come in a no-doubt highly anticipated third book. An adventure of strength and compassion.”
-Kirkus Reviews (Odwar vs. the Shadow Queen)
“It’s a good lesson, especially for young boys who are struggling with family expectations and the complications of masculinity. This was an engaging and fun journey of the second characters of the Intasimi warriors, and I can’t wait for the next installment.”
-Youth Services Book Review (Odwar vs. the Shadow Queen)
“A fantastic introduction to Kenyan culture and a great story too!”
-Karen Sands-O’Conner, British Academy Global Professor of Children's Literature (Mwikali and the Forbidden Mask)
“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 (Mwikali and the Forbidden Mask)
“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 (Mwikali and the Forbidden Mask)
"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 (Mwikali and the Forbidden Mask)
