Odwar vs. the Shadow Queen by Shiko Nguru

What worked:

I’ve not read the previous book but I still feel like this book can be read independently. The four main characters manifested abilities in that book and Odwar draws power from his shadow. However, he hopes that finding his Entasim will increase his control and strength enough to combat the terrible nightmares he’s been having. Readers will know they’re more than bad dreams when Odwar awakens with deep scratches on his arms, as the Shadow Queen has targeted him. You can immediately see a huge problem as the source of his power is connected to the realm of his new enemy.

The plot offers contrasting problems for Odwar. The men in his family are cold and unsupportive toward Odwar and it greatly bothers him. His older brother resents that Odwar inherits the family power and becomes an Intasimi Warrior instead of him. His father and uncle are obsessed with their own dominance in society and do anything to maintain control over others. On the other hand, Odwar’s mother and grandmother are warm and understanding as they know the males in the family are overly demanding. Odwar’s father is upset that Odwar hasn’t found his Entasim yet so the pressure building on Odwar pushes him to make some rash decisions. In addition, there’s a tale that finding one’s Entasim can change their personality drawing power from the person’s positive or negative thoughts. This can be a problem for an emotional, middle-grade superhero.

The story is set in Kenya so African culture is featured. The story says Odwar’s ancestor is Lwanda Magere and is based on a legendary warrior in Kenyan folklore. Lwanda had the strength of ten men and led his people to freedom and he drew power from his shadow. Odwar’s family lives in Nairobi and other geographical and political features are mentioned as characters move about the country. Various meals are eaten throughout the story that include porridge and tea and a feast features roast meat called nyama choma. Odwar’s grandmother wears a boldly-patterned, ankle-length dress with a matching headwrap. These cultural details create authenticity and realism in the book to help readers believe it actually takes place in Kenya.

What didn’t work as well:

Odwar becomes upset when he perceives his friends and family don’t believe in him. He becomes resentful and snappy when others question him about problems that arise and he thinks he just needs to get stronger. The problem is his behavior is predictable every time other characters talk to him. It’s understandable in the context of the story but his actions become redundant.

The Final Verdict:

The Kenyan culture makes this story unique and the author saves some surprises for the latter parts. It’s nice to see the transformation in several of the characters. Odwar’s relationship with the other warriors becomes strained and his mentor develops an issue that will probably drive the plot in the sequel. Overall, the author presents an emotional, entertaining adventure and I recommend you give it a shot.