Review by Ihomehe Agbebaku
Simon & Schuster, 2023
288 pages, Hardcover, $17.99 CAD, 9781665912648
Middle Grade, ages 8-12
Fantasy, Fiction
“The war is lost,” she says in an urgent voice. “You should leave the village while you still can. There’s a bus departing soon to take people to safety.”
I look back at Chidinma’s weak body lying on the makeshift bed. There’s no way she’d be able to walk.
“I need help,” I murmur quietly. “My sister’s sick.”
“We’re all sick and hungry and tired,” the girl replies harshly. “That’s war.”
I grab her arm, desperate to make her listen. “Please, I can’t do this alone.”
Indecision crosses the girl’s face, then she shrugs me off and marches back out.
Chidinma whimpers as I pull her into my arms. Her head lifts in a slow, painful movement. “Is the war over? Did we win?” she asks.
I cradle her and begin to rock my arms. “Yes. Everything will be fine.”
We both know I’m lying.
Onyeka and the Rise of the Rebels by Tọlá Okogwu is a gripping young adult superhero novel that explores themes of friendship, trust, and the struggle against tyranny. Set in a near-future Nigeria, the book follows the adventures of Onyeka and her friends as they confront a sinister villain and contend with their own inner demons.
The story picks up after the events of Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun, with Onyeka and her friends fleeing from the clutches of Dr. Dòyìnbó, the head teacher of the Academy of the Sun. As they search for a cure for the Solari disease and try to locate Onyeka’s missing parents, they must also navigate the treacherous world of rebel groups and hidden agendas. With alliances shifting and dangers lurking at every turn, Onyeka and her friends must band together to defeat their common enemy.
Okogwu’s writing style is engaging and descriptive, drawing readers into the vibrant world of Nigeria and its superpowered inhabitants. The pacing is brisk, with action-packed sequences balanced by moments of introspection and character development. The author effectively conveys the tension and excitement of the story, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.
The characters in Onyeka and the Rise of the Rebels are well-rounded and believable, with each undergoing meaningful growth throughout the story. Onyeka herself is a relatable and likable protagonist, grappling with her own insecurities and fears while striving to protect those she loves. Supporting characters like Adanna, Niyì, and Hassan add depth to the story, each bringing their own unique strengths and weaknesses to the table.
The novel explores themes of courage, resilience, and the power of friendship in the face of adversity. Okogwu deftly examines the impact of fear and mistrust on individuals and communities, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation in the fight against oppression. These themes are sure to prompt reflection on real-world issues and challenges.
As a reader, I found Onyeka and the Rise of the Rebels to be a thrilling and thought-provoking read. The action-packed plot kept me hooked from start to finish, while the nuanced character development added depth and complexity to the story. The themes explored resonated with me on a personal level, leaving me with a renewed sense of hope and empowerment.
Compared to other young adult superhero novels, Onyeka and the Rise of the Rebels stands out for its vibrant setting, diverse cast of characters, and nuanced exploration of social issues. Okogwu’s unique perspective and storytelling style set it apart from others in its genre, making it a distinctive read for fans of the genre.
I would highly recommend Onyeka and the Rise of the Rebels to fans of young adult fiction, particularly those who enjoy superhero stories with a twist. The book is also well-suited for readers interested in exploring themes of identity, justice, and activism. With its engaging plot, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, this novel is sure to captivate readers of all ages.
Ihomehe Agbebaku is currently pursuing her Masters in Creative Writing at the University of British Columbia. As a Teaching Assistant in Writing for Children and Young Adults, she is passionate about nurturing young writers and exploring diverse narratives. Alongside her studies, Ihomehe serves as a Reviewer for Young Adulting Magazine and a Reader for PRISM Magazine, where she indulges her love for reading and discovering compelling stories across a wide range of genres and forms, including poetry, fiction, speculative fiction, and screenwriting for various age groups. With a keen interest in diverse literature, Ihomehe is dedicated to celebrating and promoting inclusive voices in the world of literature.
YOUNG ADULTING 