Rated 5 stars ***** ARC. ebook. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (Hachette Book Group). Published September 27, 2022.
In poetic verse readers are introduced to the 1860 world of eleven-year-old Kofi and his family in his West African village of Upper Kwanta filled with Asante life and culture. There Kofi attends school where his teacher insists they speak the Queen’s English instead of Twi, their tribal tongue. He has a crush on Ama, constantly thinking of her beauty but not brave enough to tell her how he feels. Kofi loves listening to his grandfather’s stories, puzzling over his riddles and advice, while studying his champion moves at Oware, played with stones and skill.
Kwasi, his older brother, is full of advice and has taught him many things, while he and his best friend Ebo have fun together as they prepare for their initiation ceremony into manhood. His cousin is the bane of his existence. Both are named Kofi, since they were born on a Friday, but his cousin is older, taller and meaner. Kofi knows his cousin is better at almost everything, but swimming is where Kofi shines. When his cousin disrespects Ama, Kofi challenges him to a swimming duel. He is determined to best him, while his cousin intends to crush him. Before their race a great darkness comes into Kofi’s life, forcing him to leave behind everything he has ever held dear.
“The door of no return” makes an excellent book club selection, as it has much to discuss. It is the “Roots” of the 21st century. Two more books will follow in this trilogy, and I look forward to reading more about Kofi’s life and his bravery.
Highly recommended for ages 14 and older.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
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