Written by NNEDI OKORAFOR | Illustrated by MEHRDOKHT AMINI
What would you do if you woke up one night to find the shadow of a giant chicken passing your bedroom door? Go and investigate of course! A hugely entertaining look at the fascinating masquerade culture of West Africa, told from the perspective of a plucky young Nigerian girl who finds the courage to protect the traditions she loves.
*WINNER Children's Africana Best Book Award
*White Ravens Honour List
*Kate Greenaway Medal (nomination)
*Biennial of Illustration Bratislava (UK entrant)
'Okorafor leaps into the world of picture books in a most unforgettable way with this playful, fascinating tale' – Kirkus Reviews, STARRED
'My little boy wanted me to read it three times in a row. So yeah, I think my kids are in agreement on this: Five Stars' - Patrick Rothfuss, #1 New York Times bestselling author
Book Details
Reading Age: 4-6 years
Extent: 32 pages
Book size: 24 x 24 cm
Pub Date: June 2018 (hardcover) | 6th June 2019 (softcover)
ISBN (hardcover): 978-1-911373-15-5
ISBN (softcover): 978-1-911373-91-9
Why people love this book
‘An enchanting, evocatively illustrated adventure that will capture the imaginations of young and old alike – more, please!’ – Ambelin Kwaymullina, award-winning author of The Tribe series
'The story could ideally be included for a storytime on African cultures but stands on its own in just being fun and enjoyable' – Youth Services Book Review, STARRED
'A truly enjoyable read' – Brittle Paper
'An interesting read that is full of humour' – Along Came Poppy
'Lively text and vibrant artwork along with a playful perspective and bit of suspenseful adventure' – School Library Journal
'A boisterous story of things that go bump in the night, Okorafor includes just enough information about the New Yam Festival to make unfamiliar readers feel in the know' – Publisher's Weekly
'A wonderful tale that is full of life and culture' – San Francisco Book Review
'A colourful, rich book that promotes conversation about food, culture and adventure' – The Happy Book Club
'An absolute joy to read – even for older readers' – Bookshy
'This humorous tale and its bold, engaging illustrations will entertain children while teaching them about important aspects of Igbo culture' – Barefoot Mommy