Imagine a world where mythology intertwines with reality, where the Zambezi River holds secrets of both magic and history. Enter the captivating realm of KARIBA, an African fantasy-adventure graphic novel that draws inspiration from Zimbabwe’s Zambezi River and the monumental Kariba Dam.
The story revolves around Siku, a young girl who shares an extraordinary connection with the Zambezi River. The water seems to respond to her presence, granting her a unique ability to manipulate it. However, as progress takes its course with the construction of the Kariba Dam, the river’s harmony is disrupted, displacing the Shonga people who call it home.
Siku’s life takes an unexpected turn when her father, Tongai, ventures to the Kariba Dam and mysteriously disappears. Fuelled by determination and love, Siku embarks on a perilous journey to find him.
Alongside Amedeo, the son of Kariba’s chief engineer, she navigates through elephant graveyards, lush jungles and ancient ruins. Their path is fraught with challenges, from pirates to shape-shifting prophets who seek to manipulate Siku’s unique abilities.
As the quest unfolds, Siku discovers a shocking revelation: she is the daughter of Nyaminyami, the Great River Spirit. To restore balance to the Zambezi, she must undergo the rumuko, a ritual that requires her to relinquish her familiar life. The narrative weaves elements of magic, self-discovery, and the intricate relationship between human desires and the natural world.
KARIBA is not just a graphic novel; it’s an immersive experience that transports readers into a world of vibrant imagination. The vivid artistry and meticulous attention to detail bring the story’s African roots to life, enriching every page with the richness of ancient Zimbabwean myth.
With endorsements from acclaimed authors like Petina Gappah, KARIBA stands out as a remarkable work of storytelling and illustration.
This masterpiece resonates with readers aged 10 to 14, offering them a chance to explore the depths of mythology, history and the indomitable spirit of a young girl determined to protect her world.
KARIBA invites us to embrace the magic that lies within our own stories and to discover the incredible power of self-discovery, all against the backdrop of Africa’s enchanting landscape.
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