Kariba

The colossal Kariba Dam is real, built in the 1950s between Zambia and Zimbabwe. "Like most fiction," the creators note, "Kariba draws heavily upon historical fact. But this should not prompt the reader to make an easy equation between the two . . . very little will be found in this book to satisfy the historian." What's presented is an astonishing fairy tale inspired by Zambezi River mythology, centered on a young girl, Siku, who lives along the banks with her father, Tongai. Glimpses of her ability to control water appear when she's most threatened, but Tongai insists that a city education will cure her "curse." After he disappears seeking work, Siku is kidnapped by pirates, becoming a bargaining chip between the white colonizers and local leaders. As Siku searches for Tongai, aided by the Italian dam engineer's adventurous son, she begins to reluctantly accept her true place amid the river's awe-inspiring power. The art is utterly breathtaking throughout, saturated with sumptuous color, enhanced with stupendous details, vivid with energy and action. A 2017 Kickstarter campaign made this wondrous graphic title possible--it's a wow-inducing phenomenal gift to be treasured.

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. (historical note) (Graphic fantasy. 10-14) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.