Zahrah the Windseeker
Zahrah the Windseeker is the first in a YA series by Nnedi Okorafor-Mbachu. This delightful coming-of-age story recounts how Zahrah steps off by herself into the forest near her home, and encounters many adventures and fascinating creatures. In the course of her journey, she learns a great deal of what she needs to solve her problems at home.
The story is based on a Nigerian myth; more information about the myth, and about the fictional land of Ginen in which Okorafor-Mbachu set this tale are available on the author's website. All characters in the novel are people of color.
Zahrah the Windseeker was short-listed for the Kindred Award and the Parallax Award, both of which are presented by the Carl Brandon Society. In addition, it was a Locus Award finalist, and a finalist for the Golden Duck Award.