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Lionheart Girl

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Book Synopsis

African myth and magic beat in the dark heart of this fable about witchcraft, superstition, the bonds we choose and those we cannot.

Born into a family of West African witches, Sheba’s terrified of her mother who is deadly dangerous. But like mother, like daughter – magic runs through her blood and Sheba discovers powers of her own.

Her touch can unravel people’s innermost thoughts; their hopes, their fears – their secrets. Sheba too can shape-shift. Through the communion of ancient magic, blood and friendship, she slowly uncovers the murderous truth about her stolen childhood and steels herself for the future. She must protect the hunted from the hunter – her mother.

Our Review Panel says...

Lionheart Girl is filled with magic, mystery and intrigue. It is set in West Africa and focuses on Sheba, a girl born into a family of witches, who is just discovering the extents of her powers as well as the many secrets that sit within her extended family. Sheba’s relationship with her mother, Sika, is challenging. Sika’s powers are much more negative and destructive than those of her aunts, as well as her own. The way in which Sheba grapples with her feelings towards Sika is woven throughout the novel and offers much to reflect upon.

The story is written in the first person, which sets the reader right at the heart of the story; Sheba’s teenage voice is so clearly conveyed through Yaba Badoe’s writing and makes her relatable to the reader. Her quest to find her father brings so many challenges, and it is wonderful to see her grow into her powers as well as develop into an empowered young woman.

This gripping and powerful book deals with mature themes and is suitable for KS3 and upwards

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Lionheart Girl

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