3.5 upped to 4
There's a lot to love in this novel: the intriguing characters and the well plotted story that kept me reading.
There's also something I felt a bit underdeveloped like the world building and the magical system. I want to know more about this possible post atomic Sahara and this weird world and I want to learn how Ejii became a very powerful magical user so soon
It's a good story and I want to know what will be next.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

"Anything goes" world-building

Shadow Speaker is an expanded re-issue of an out-of-print novel The Shadow Speaker by self-described Africanfuturism and Africanjujuism Nigerian-American author Nnedi Okorafor. (Okorafor mostly eschews the word "magic" in favor of "juju".) I haven't read the original version (indeed, I have not previously read any of Okorafor's works), so I have little to say about what is new. One thing I CAN point to, however, is the cover. The new cover is so much better! In addition, we have a new introduction by the author, written in the voice of The Desert Magician, a character in the novel.

I suspect, however, that the main impetus for the rejuvenation of Shadow Speaker is the imminent publication of a sequel Like Thunder, which has another badass cover. I would not be surprised to learn that the ending of Shadow Speaker was adjusted for this purpose, as the new edition ends in a way that seems to demand a sequel -- not quite a cliffhanger, but definitely indications of More To Come.

Shadow Speaker takes place mostly in the Sahara in 2074, but it is a very different Sahara from the one we have now. Shadow Speaker has a postapocalyptic setting, but the apocalypse had elements of juju as well as science. There were nuclear bombs and Peace Bombs -- the latter combining science and juju. As a consequence there are magical beings -- our hero Ejimafor Ugabe is one such, a Shadow Speaker -- and portals to other worlds, in particular a world called Ginen. Ejii is a sixteen-year-old girl, just coming into control of her juju. She journeys to Ginen following her hero Jaa, and stuff happens there.

I did not personally enjoy Shadow Speaker as much as I had hoped. This comes down mostly to Okorafor's world-building, which was not to my taste. I think of fantasy worlds as being Alice's in Wonderland or Lord of the Rings types. Either one can be full of Cool, Exciting Stuff. The difference is that an LOTR world has a deep, carefully worked out structure in which all the Cool Stuff fits together and makes sense. In an Alice world the Cool Stuff is just random, whatever the author thought at the moment would be cool. (And yes, I am being unfair to Alice here.) I personally greatly prefer LOTR-type fantasy worlds. And Shadow Speaker feels very Alice to me.

The plot of Shadow Speaker also felt like a loose succession of "stuff that felt cool to me at the moment" elements. Now, I am exaggerating a bit. Both the world and the plot had some underlying logic to them. But I am describing honestly the "anything goes" feeling both gave me, and it was not to my taste. As always, YMMV.

Now, I do endorse Shadow Speaker in one important way. This morning I pre-ordered the sequel Like Thunder. To be honest, it is not so much that I want to read another book like Shadow Speaker as that I want to see how Okorafor now writes. She has published dozens of books and won multiple awards. Even surviving so many years as a writer is an accomplishment, and I am interested to see how she has evolved in her craft.

I thank NetGalley and DAW for an advance reader copy of Shadow Speaker. This review expresses my honest opinions. Release date 26-Sep-2023.

Shadow Speaker is about a young girl, Ejii, who is thrust into a world of strength, adventure, and mystical powers she now must learn to control. Ejii watches as her father is beheaded and the power is shifted to the ever powerful Jaa. As Ejii grows up, she must now learn to control her shadow speaking abilities. Not only this, but she now must go on an epic quest to find peace amongst clashing nations.

Okorafor really cannot go wrong with her stories. They are captivating and the world building is so descriptive, it’s almost like I can she exactly what she’s writing. I enjoyed the story and could not put it down!! Typically with Okorafor’s work, I feel like it ends so abruptly and ambiguous, but this book has a nice ending that leaves enough for the next book but not overwhelmingly open. I loved the magic system and the full cast of characters sprinkled throughout the book. The story does leave me with a lot of questions that I’m not sure will be answered in a second book, nor can I imagine it would. This was a solid 4.75 out of 5 stars for me!

I love Nnendi Okorafor's work. She has a talent for blending real world with the fantastical. An emotional and sometimes difficult read (because she doesn't hold back), an enjoyable beginning to this story.

If you haven't had the chance to read anything by Nnedi Okorafor, please do yourself a favor and pick up one of her books. She has a writing style that is so original and fresh, it's truly unlike anything else you will read. Most of her books are a fairly fast read but the amount of world building and character development you find in her stories are more of what you would find in much larger books yet somehow she makes it fit into a much shorter story.
Ejii, our protagonist and Shadow Speaker is a young girl in West Africa who decides, against her mothers wishes, to join up with Jaa, the leader of her tribe who several years ago beheaded her father. She is not joining her in order to avenger her father but to join her at a meeting regarding the Great Merge that is joining other worlds to our own and the shadows have told her that she needs to be there in order to stop a war. On her journey on her talking camel Onion, she finds another young person who was a former slave and he is also discovering his power over storms. The two form a difficult friendship on their way to find Jaa.
This story kept me fully engaged and I will definitely be reading the 2nd book of this duology to find out how everything turns out!

Nnedei Okorafor is a force. I fell madly in love with Binti, which I still think about today, and have a copy of Noor waiting for me on my bookcase once I get through my Netgalleys ;)

Shadow Speaker is one hell of a book. The author is a spectacular character and world builder, with the right mix of sci-fi and fantasy for me. I'm not one for complex worldbuilding and appreciate that her books are partically set in a version of Nigeria. The Peace Bombs and Ejii's journey to find Jaa was so fascinating. I've been going through a reading slump recently but flew through half of this book in one day. And the second half the following day. I honestly can't wait for part two and will be collecting more books by this author. Excellent, excellent, excellent.

As a mostly genre reader, I love when lines are crossed and fantasy blurs into science fiction. I especially love it when such hybrid books also have a unique cultural perspective that is a far departure from the Anglo or Euro-centric theologies and themes that permeate both genres. That is what initially drew me to Shadow Speaker by Nnedi Okorafor. However, the novel’s distinct voice and transcriptive writing style are what made it really special.
The thing that stands out the most to me about this book was just how conversational it was, despite being written in third person. It reminded me a lot of an oral history similar to something like The Mabinogian. A literary account that has been transcribed faithfully to its oral origins, as opposed to having been polluted with authorial flourish or elaboration. I specify that because the writing style used in Shadow Speaker is very abrupt. The sentences are short and clear, and there are repetitive themes in the dialogue and inner monologue that feel almost mnemonic. Historically speaking this was done so that the speaker could recall the details of the story. However, for some it also acts as a form of mesmerism—in the practical sense, not the supernatural one—making the pacing of the narrative feel more seamless and less drawn out.
In terms of modern literary narratives, this type of style basically translates to a book that feels a lot shorter than it actually is in all the best ways. It also makes it near impossible to put down.
Would I recommend this? Absolutely, to anyone that adores high fantasy or high science fiction. I will also be eagerly pre-ordering Like Thunder, book two in the duology, for myself.

Nigeria, the near future. A recent world war has led to unexpected consequences on both the earth and its inhabitants. Ejii is a child of this new world. She is a shadow speaker - she can feel and hear shadows around her. Because of this ability, she is considered a threat by those unchanged, including her cruel father. When he is killed by the renowned Jaa, on a visit to Ejii’s village, the girl believes her circumstances will improve, but the following years prove her wrong, until fate or another power gives us an opportunity for revenge.
When I saw a new book by Nnedi Okorafor on NetGalley, I was super excited. Okorafor’s Binti trilogy made me rediscover sci-fi and encouraged me to search for books I’d love in this genre I wasn’t best friends with. Actually, Shadow Speaker isn’t exactly a new release, since it was first published in 2007 and was Okorafor’s first YA novel, but it was out of print. The 2023 version is expanded and has a new introduction.
What I found the most fascinating about this book was how many of the elements that made Binti so enjoyable were already budding in this earlier novel. You’ve got fantastic world-building, in this africanfuturist Nigeria and potential other planets, a headstrong but caring female main character, themes of family, identity, uprootedness, discussions of politics and righteousness. I felt that Shadow Speaker wasn’t as gripping and exciting as Binti had been, but that may be a consequence of me having read the latter first. I do think this book would be a good introduction to Okorafor’s writing (especially for a YA audience), even though I still consider Binti a more accomplished book.
On a last note, it is also worth noticing that I read this book in a state of high stress, so I may not have been as focused on it as I would have liked.
Rep: Black Muslim MC.
CW: child slavery, animal death, mention of child death.

Series Info/Source: This is the first book in the Desert Magician's Duology, a reprint of a series that was originally released in 2008. I got this as an ebook from NetGalley for review.

Thoughts: This is the first book in the Desert Magician's duology. This is a re-release of this series which was originally released in 2008. The second book in the series will be titled "Like Thunder" and release in Nov 2023. I liked this but thought it definitely had some flaws as well.

This book follows Ejii a young girl who is a shadow speaker. She lives in a future post-apocalyptic earth where some humans have gained special powers because of the merging of the Earth with other worlds. Ejii decides to leave her village after the shadows tell her she must accompany a warrior woman to some special peace talks in order to stop a war. She gains some friends along her adventure and faces many dangers.

I enjoyed this but didn't love it. I really liked the idea of humans gaining these strange powers but didn't think they were explained very well. I also enjoyed Ejii's journey across the desert, but it seemed a bit anti-climatic...there was supposed to be all of this danger and Ejii seemed to overcome her trials fairly easily because in my opinion her powers are just way too crazy powerful but only at really convenient times.

In general, this just felt more choppy and immature compared to Okorafor's other books. It's an interesting story. However, the premise here is fairly sophisticated and the writing style didn't match well for me. I struggled with the flow of the story some. I really loved the beginning but the ending felt a bit jumbled.

My Summary (3.5/5): Overall I liked this but found it a lot less impressive than Okorafor's "Binti" series. It just feels a bit clunky and the main characters seem very overpowered (at convenient times). Right now I don't plan on reading the second book in the series.

This one was just fine. I really loved the world-building but the plot dragged so much in the middle that it was difficult to stay engaged.

This book takes place in West Africa in 2070. 15 year old Ejii is a Shadow Speaker. We follow her throughout her dangerous journey across the Sahara desert in search of her father's killer. Ejii finds what she is looking for but she also discovers a greater purpose for her life and the powers she possesses. I read remote control back in 2021 and loved it! Nnedi delivered again with this one!

"Shadow Speaker" by Nnedi Okorafor is an enthralling journey into a vividly reimagined future, where technology and mysticism intertwine to create a captivating and unpredictable world. Set in a West Africa of 2074, the novel introduces us to Ejii Ugabe, a complex and resilient young protagonist with a deep-seated vendetta. As the daughter of a ruthless politician, Ejii's life takes a tumultuous turn after her father's demise. Okorafor masterfully weaves a tale of revenge, discovery, and self-realization as Ejii grapples with her newfound abilities granted by an enigmatic Earth. With Okorafor's signature blend of science fiction and African cultural elements, the story unfolds in ways both unexpected and satisfying. The lush prose and imaginative world-building pull readers into a realm where the laws of physics no longer hold sway, and mysticism shapes reality. The character-driven narrative explores themes of power, morality, and the complexities of love and hatred. As Ejii embarks on her quest, the novel unravels layers of intrigue, leaving readers spellbound. "Shadow Speaker" not only showcases Okorafor's storytelling prowess but also serves as a thought-provoking exploration of human nature within the boundaries of a mesmerizing futuristic setting.

Shadow Speaker by Nnedi Okorafor is an odyssey-like story of Ejii, a young teenager with magical abilities. When the shadows tell Ejii she must leave home and attend a meeting to prevent a war, she knows her life won’t be the same. Along the way, Ejii meets unique and interesting characters who help shape her into the person she was always meant to be.

I really enjoyed this story and Ejii’s journey. It was unlike any books I’ve read recently. Ejii is a remarkable character and I look forward to reading the next book. I recommend this story to readers of all ages who enjoy strong female characters and adventure stories.

This was so good! I didn't realise this is a reissue but I'm so glad that it's been released. Cannot wait to read the second book.

I'm just gonna come right out and say it: Nnedi Okorafor has to be one of the most consistent authors writing today. In-depth characters, immersive stories, and a magical system that never fails to surprise are hallmarks of her novels.
Ejii and Dikéogu are especially believable characters. Their motivations are somewhat suspect at times, but in the end, they work together in an effort to allay war.
The best part of Okorafor's writing is her inclusion of cultural references. The reader learns about the diet, customs and celebrations in a way that makes them feel closer to the characters and story.

Meet Ejii Ugabe, the 14-year-old heroine living in a dystopian Niger, changed by nuclear war and "Peace Bombs" created by an environmentalist group to restore what was lost. These bombs unleashed magic across the planet, tearing holes in the atmosphere between worlds. Some children are now "metahuman" with special gifts like Ejii, who can speak to shadows, and her friend Dikéogu, capable of controlling the weather. Together, they could save or destroy the world.

At the age of 9, Ejii witnessed her father's beheading by warrior queen Sarauniya Jaa. Surprisingly, she felt relieved, as her father had become a tyrant. Learning that Jaa believes she will become Niger's next warrior queen, Ejii decides to follow Jaa into another world, embarking on a perilous walkabout as a shadow speaker.

While I appreciated the intriguing characters and setting, the story felt lackluster. The characters feel flat and most of the story is quite linear and derivative. Now, I'm glad I read it but it's clear it was one of Okorafor's early books.

This is a well-written coming of age novel (book 1 of a duology), set in a post-apocalyptic future where a 'peace bomb' being set off has led to both unusual abilities coming forth within the population and also gateways into other universes. Our protagonist (Ejii) is one of those with abilities, brought up by a self-centred father who makes the most of his time running their community after the previous leader leaves, circumscribing Ejii's life (as well as those of the other women) until he meets an abrupt and violent end.

Determined to learn more about her abilities in the aftermath of her father's death, Ejii travels to meet the woman who killed him and then, in her retinue, to another world completely. Another review I read says that a lot of time is spent travelling and that's true, but there's also a lot of development for Ejii and her own understanding of herself within those periods. She also develops a fractious relationship with Dikéogu, a former child slave who also has powers (though his are different from Ejii's).

All in all, I enjoyed reading Shadow Speaker but am unsure whether I'll search out the remaining book in this series - I guess I'm a little over teenage protagonists, to be perfectly honest.

*I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for the free book*

"The Shadow Speaker" clearly shows that Okorafor has an incredible mind filled with brilliant ideas for fiction, but she tends to leave the execution lacking. This book is too short and it throws too much world building (Africanfuturism / sci-fi / coming of age / world travel / climate change), character and storylines at the reader. It is fast paced and entertaining but also too much and the characters are partly pretty unlikeable. Typical for Okorafor it's also quite violent. I did enjoy the ride though, so 4 stars because it's just so innovative

𝗠𝘆 𝗧𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲: Shadowed Sand
𝗙𝗮𝘃 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿: Jaa
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆: Easy
𝗧𝘆𝗽𝗲: Novel
𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Sci-fi fantasy | africanfuturism
4.3/𝟱

🌱THE EXCELLENT
~ great stylistic opening
~ young girl story (13/14)
~ quick & well-interspersed action
~ unexpected bits & pieces
~ fun, creative & well-described other world

In a small but meaningful futuristic town in the 2070s, a young girl, blessed by a mutation of a “peace bomb”, faces the challenges of ‘evolution & adulthood’ when she follows the woman who chopped off the head of her father. On her way to her, she finds a friend in an ex-child slave & eminently suspicious boy, develops her power & visits a new world where plants grow wildly & humans are more conscientious.

As Ejii navigates this world of patientless adults & new powers she comes into her own with wisdom & idealism… although many times, violence may be the best way. 😬

✨𝗚𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗶𝘁 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱.

🌱THE MEH
~ I was distressed at the lack of confidence & her fear of herself
~ Her father 😒
~ The lack of unsubscribing the evil ppl

♡🌱 𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁'𝘀 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗺𝗲 ;)

Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read Shadow Speaker by Nnedi Okorafor in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed reading Shadow Speaker. Per usual, Okorafor weaves a provocative narrative that causes the reader to question their ethical decision making and world view. I would recommend that readers read Zarah the Windseeker before reading this duology. I love that Okorafor is weaving her novels together to create a meta narrative. The one thing I did not like is the gross fatphobia when describing the villain. It felt like his villainy was intrinsic to his fatness.