Akata Witch

by Nnedi Okorafor
Akata Witch cover
Good Books rating 3.81
Fantasy, Young Adult (YA)
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  • ID: 7843
  • Added: 2025-12-17
  • Updated: 2026-02-15
  • ISBN: 9780142420911
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 2017-07-11
  • Reviews: 4

Akata Witch follows Sunny Nwazue, a unique girl who feels out of place due to her albino features and American birth. Her life takes an extraordinary turn when she discovers she is a 'free agent' with magical abilities. Joining a group of magic students, Sunny embarks on a journey to master her powers and change reality. However, their training is put to the test when they are tasked with tracking down a powerful criminal who also knows magic. The story blends adventure and magic, set against the vibrant backdrop of Nigeria, and explores themes of identity and finding one's place in the world. /n/n World Fantasy Award-winning author Nnedi Okorafor creates a lush and imaginative world in Akata Witch. The novel has been praised for its stunning imagination and has garnered acclaim from notable authors such as Neil Gaiman and Rick Riordan. The story is perfect for fans of magical adventures and those seeking a fresh perspective on fantasy.

Reviews
Angry Happy Hat · 2019-11-13
thoughtful 4.00

The book explores social implications within a hidden fantasy world, offering a fresh perspective on conventional fantasy tropes. The protagonist's journey is both engaging and thought-provoking.

This review highlights how the book takes familiar fantasy elements and infuses them with deeper social commentary. The protagonist's struggles and discoveries are portrayed in a way that resonates with readers, making the story both entertaining and meaningful. The reviewer appreciates the unique cultural perspective and the way the book addresses issues of identity and belonging.

Quick quotes

    It takes a conventional framework—a hidden fantasy world and a girl who discovers she belongs to it—and unwraps the social implications.

    The book offers a fresh perspective on conventional fantasy tropes.

    The protagonist's journey is both engaging and thought-provoking.

elitistbookreviews.com · Writer Dan · 2019-08-30
disappointing 3.00

The book is disappointing due to its overwhelming emphasis on world-building at the expense of a consistent plot. The lack of a cohesive narrative detracts from the overall reading experience.

This read was disappointing because of the overwhelming emphasis on world-building and the lack of a consistent plot. While the author has created a rich and detailed fantasy world, the narrative feels disjointed and lacks a strong central storyline. The character development is also uneven, with some characters feeling more fleshed out than others. Despite these issues, the book does have its moments, particularly in its exploration of cultural themes and the unique setting. However, the overall experience is marred by the inconsistent plotting and uneven pacing. It's a shame because the potential is there, but the execution falls short.

Quick quotes

    By-and-large this read was disappointing because of the overwhelming emphasis on the world-building and the lack of a consistent plot.

    The narrative feels disjointed and lacks a strong central storyline.

    The character development is also uneven, with some characters feeling more fleshed out than others.

Dear Author · 2017-06-26
enjoyable 3.50

The book is very readable and enjoyable, with an appealing protagonist. Despite the challenges faced by the main character, the story is engaging and well-crafted.

Akata Witch is a very readable and enjoyable book. The protagonist, Sunny, is an appealing character who faces numerous challenges, including being picked on by her classmates. Despite these obstacles, the story is engaging and well-crafted, making it a pleasure to read. The author does an excellent job of developing the characters and the world they inhabit, creating a rich and immersive experience for the reader.

Quick quotes

    Akata Witch was a very readable and enjoyable book.

    Sunny is an appealing character.

    The author does an excellent job of developing the characters and the world they inhabit.

Reading Asia · 2017-01-06
engaging 4.75

The book is recommended for its strong and likable heroine, realistic friendships, and highly original worldbuilding. The story is both engaging and original.

This reviewer highly recommends the book for its well-developed protagonist and the authentic portrayal of friendships. The fantasy world is uniquely crafted, offering a fresh and exciting setting for the story. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to balance adventure with deeper themes, making it a memorable and enjoyable read. The cultural elements and magical adventures are seamlessly integrated, enhancing the overall narrative.

Quick quotes

    Recommended for the strong and likable heroine, the realistic and touching friendships, and the highly original fantasy worldbuilding.

    The story is both engaging and original.

    The cultural elements and magical adventures are seamlessly integrated, enhancing the overall narrative.

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