Akata Witch
#1 of 3 in The Nsibidi Scripts Series
on Goodreads (37,117)
What’s inside...
Akata Witch transports the reader to a magical place where nothing is quite as it seems. Born in New York, but living in Aba, Nigeria, twelve-year old Sunny is understandably a little lost. She is albino and thus, incredibly sensitive to the sun. All Sunny wants to do is be able to play football and get through another day of school without being bullied. But once she befriends Orlu and Chichi, Sunny is plunged into the world of the Leopard People, where your worst defect becomes your greatest asset. Together, Sunny, Orlu, Chichi and Sasha form the youngest ever Oha Coven. Their mission is to track down Black Hat Otokoto, the man responsible for kidnapping and maiming children. Will Sunny be able to overcome the killer with powers stronger than her own, or will the future she saw in the flames become reality?
Character compass
Sunny Nwazue
Sasha
Orlu
Chichi
Anatov
Sugar Cream
Black Hat Otokoto
Discussion points
What do you think about Sunny's journey of discovering her magical powers? How do you think you would react in a similar situation?
How do the themes of friendship and teamwork play out in the story? Can you share examples from your own life where teamwork helped solve a problem?
What lessons did you learn about different cultures and acceptance from 'Akata Witch'?
How do the characters in the book confront and overcome their fears? Can you relate to any of their experiences?
If you had magical powers like Sunny, how would you use them to make a positive change in your community?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s themes such as bravery, diversity, and acceptance to create a safe space for open dialogue.
Relate the story's scenarios to real-life situations to help your child make connections between the book and the world around them.
Encourage your child to ask questions about anything they didn't understand or found intriguing, and explore the answers together.
Highlight how Sunny’s experiences with learning about her heritage and abilities can be similar to their own journey of self-discovery and growth.
Discuss the importance of empathy and understanding, using characters' interactions as examples of how we can better relate to people who are different from us.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embrace diversity and acceptance
Explanation: In 'Akata Witch,' the protagonist, Sunny, is an American-born Nigerian girl with albinism. She learns to embrace her differences and unique abilities in a society that often sees her as an outsider. Through her journey, she discovers her inner strength and the power of accepting others.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and celebrate differences in themselves and others, promoting inclusivity and understanding in diverse social settings.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork and friendship
Explanation: Throughout the story, Sunny and her friends, who form the 'Oha Coven', demonstrate the importance of working together to overcome challenges. Their collaboration is key in tackling the magical and real world obstacles they face.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value collaborative efforts and support within their circles, be it in school projects or in family activities, fostering stronger bonds and collective problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Courage and resilience
Explanation: Sunny faces numerous adversities, from dealing with her identity to battling powerful foes. Her courage in confronting these challenges head-on demonstrates resilience in the face of adversity.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing fears and overcoming obstacles, building resilience that will help them navigate their own challenges in life.
Example Lesson: Importance of self-discovery and growth
Explanation: As Sunny learns about her magical abilities and heritage, she undergoes significant personal growth and self-discovery. This journey highlights the importance of exploring and understanding one's own identity and potential.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery, fostering curiosity and lifelong learning.
Example Lesson: Ethical responsibility
Explanation: Sunny learns to use her magical powers responsibly as she understands the implications of her actions in the magical community. This introduces themes of ethical decision-making and responsibility.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of making ethical choices and considering the impact of their actions on others and their surroundings.