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Set in modern-day Nairobi in East Africa, The Intasimi Warriors follows four young friends on the eve of their thirteenth birthdays as they discover they are the descendants of the Intasimi: an ancient bloodline of legendary East African warriors. Follow Mwikali, Soni, Odwar and Xirsi as they race against time to learn how to channel their ancestors' powers while pitting themselves against a terrifying array of malign forces that are intent on using dark magic to destroy everything the friends hold dear. Inspired by the author's Kenyan heritage, this fast-paced, action-packed series is bursting with African mythology and gripping to the very end.

Author Biography

Shiko Nguru is a Kenyan author and content creator, sharing her motherhood journey in the most genuine and beautiful way she can @ShikoNguru. The Intasimi Warriors is her award-nominated debut series, inspired by her love of East African mythology.

Review

"With its important lessons about self-acceptance and its action-packed scenes of fighting monsters, Mwikali and theForbidden Mask is a delightful fantasy novel."--starred, Foreword Reviews-- (9/1/2022 12:00:00 AM)
"In this mythology-minded adventure tale, Nguru provides readers with a solid introduction to Kenyan lore . . . and culture. . . . The emotional structure of the story . . . will resonate with many readers."--The Horn Book Magazine-- (1/1/2023 12:00:00 AM)
"Mwikali's path from self-doubt to confidence inspires . . . A heartfelt page-turner."--Kirkus Reviews-- (8/17/2022 12:00:00 AM)

Review Quote

"A sixth grader discovers her true powers just in time to save the world. Mwikali has never stayed in the same place for long. Her mother's job as a flight attendant has given her permanent new-girl status at every school she's attended across the world. This year will be different. She has returned with her mother to her birthplace, Nairobi, Kenya, to attend elite Savanna Academy. After being accused of cursing her friend Amanda and sending her to the hospital at her previous school, Mwikali cannot afford to make waves again. Her first day ruins any chance to fly under the radar, however, when she freaks out after witnessing her teacher turn into a monster. Unfortunately, she's the only one who can see what happened, and her chance for a regular school year seems to be crushed. Fortunately, three of her classmates--Odwar, Soni, and Xirsi--believe Mwikali because they recognize her gift. They are all Intasimi, people from magical bloodlines, some of whom are born with special powers. Her new friends help Mwikali hone her skills, prepare to confront the monsters hiding in plain sight, and save the world from a dark future. Nguru's series-opening debut is rich in the mythology and beauty of Kenya. Although the climax is slightly rushed, the strong characterization supports the work: Mwikali's path from self-doubt to confidence inspires, and her struggles with friendship feel universal. A handful of charming full-page illustrations enhance the work. A heartfelt page-turner."--Kirkus Reviews

Author Comments

Author Biography

Feature

A fast-paced, fantasy adventure story drawing on Kenyan history and mythology Gives glimpses into fascinating cultural details including foods, music, clothing and transportation in modern and historical Kenya Jam-packed with Kenyan history and mythology Mwikali's success in growing into her new-found powers is dependent on her ability to nurture new friendships and believe in herself A fascinating central conflict: history and tradition meets modernity and globalization Written by a debut #OwnVoices author, a new and exciting contemporary voice in children's fiction

Description for Press or Other Media

National Publicity Campaign, National Review Attention, Special Publicity Mailing to Children's Media Outlets

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