5⭐️

Ever since I read Binti five years ago, I’ve been obsessed with Nnedi’s work. Binti has been one of my favorite female leads ever. But, now, Najeeba may have stolen my heart.

With a mix of sci-fi, fantasy and west African culture, Nnedi brings forth the beginning of Nejeeba’s story. And quite the story it is.

Only men get the calling but she gets it to. She joins her father and brothers on a trip to mine salt from the dead lake and then travel to the market to sell it. It is during the first trip at the age of 13 that Nejeeba begins to become the sorceress she is in Who Fears Death. (Disclaimer I have not read that book yet, but it is on my TBR.)

Nnedi’s poetic writing and the growth of her characters, especially Najeeba, truly shine in this novella. Sci-fi and fantasy can be demanding genres since you’re creating a new world. This can tank or this can shine. And Nnedi shines in her world building. She gives so much in a just enough way that works, brilliantly. I cannot wait for the rest of the trilogy.

Thank you netgalley, DAW and Nnedi for the opportunity to read this gem.