Description
In 1772, twelve-year-old Akoni, the son of King Djibali, lives a sheltered yet vibrant life in the heart of the Benin Kingdom. As the heir to a proud Yoruba lineage, Akoni is surrounded by the rhythms of drumming, the wisdom of elders, the colors of sacred rituals, and the deep spiritual traditions that shape his world. Through his eyes, we are introduced to the richness of Yoruba culture — its ceremonies, its values, and the deep connection between land, ancestors, and identity.
Akoni is preparing to undergo the sacred rite of passage that will mark his transition into manhood, a highly anticipated moment in his life and a source of immense pride for his father. King Djibali, a wise and respected ruler, sees in his son the promise of continuity and strength for their people. But as the village prepares for celebration, a dark threat looms just beyond the forest.
Slave hunters, driven by the growing demands of the transatlantic trade, draw near, seeking to capture the strong and the young. The serenity of Akoni’s world is shattered in an instant. Forced to confront a brutal new reality, he must grow up far faster than tradition ever intended. What was meant to be a symbolic rite of passage becomes a test of survival, courage, and resilience.
This novel is the story of a boy on the edge of manhood, whose destiny is forever altered by the violence of history. It is a poignant journey through cultural pride, sudden loss, and the unyielding will to hold onto one’s identity in the face of unimaginable upheaval. Through Akoni, we remember a world before the rupture — and the strength it takes to carry its legacy forward.
