KARIBA

A young Black girl in 1950s southern Africa experiences a life-altering journey while searching for her father.

While paddling down the Zambezi River seeking treasure on a hidden island, Tongai stumbled upon a baby girl and brought her home. Now 11, Siku is intelligent and adventurous, so much so that Tongai decides they will move to Salisbury (present-day Harare, Zimbabwe) to further her education. However, as she grows, Siku’s connection to Nyaminyami, the Great River Spirit, and her ability to manipulate water are revealed, putting her safety in jeopardy. Tongai heads to the site of the Kariba dam, a colonial European project that displaced many people, to try to save his daughter, but he disappears when his plans go awry. After they are kidnapped by pirates, Siku escapes with Amedeo, an Italian boy whose mother is working on the dam. As they journey to find Siku’s father, they meet some Shonga people, whose chief offers Siku guidance and helps her connect with a mystical being who informs her of the pivotal role she can play in fulfilling a larger purpose, should she choose to. This fast-paced work, full of daring acts and highlighting Siku’s powerful voice, has a backdrop inspired by colonial history. The illustrations are reminiscent of an animated feature, with strong facial expressions and vivid hues. The varied style of the panels adds extra vigor, particularly when Siku is having watery visions, as the shapes and edges become fluid.

A dynamic, mystical coming-of-age story.