Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun
#1 of 33 in Once/Now/Then/After Series
on Goodreads (1,763)
What’s inside...
Black Panther meets Percy Jackson in this action-packed and empowering middle-grade superhero series about a British-Nigerian girl who learns that her Afro hair has psychokinetic powers. Soon to be a feature film with a major streamer! 'I close my eyes, trying to push the power bubbling under my skin outward. I imagine it running through my veins, boiling and searching for an exit. I open my eyes. My hair is floating, tendrils reaching out, swaying like the limbs of a willow. The slightest tremor runs through me, a ripple of power. I feel unstoppable.'
Character compass
Onyeka
Discussion points
What did you think about Onyeka's ability to control her hair? How do you think this power helps her understand herself better?
How do the friendships in the story impact Onyeka’s journey at the Academy? Can you relate to any of her experiences with her friends?
The setting in Nigeria is vibrant and full of culture. What did you find most interesting about the places Onyeka visited?
Onyeka faces many challenges throughout her adventures. Which challenge did you find most exciting or scary, and why?
If you had a superpower like Onyeka, what would it be and how would you use it to help others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that guide your child to express feelings and thoughts, encouraging them to think deeply about the characters and plot.
Connect discussions to personal experiences or feelings, making themes from the book relevant to the child’s own life.
Discuss cultural elements and settings within the book to broaden your child's understanding of different backgrounds and environments.
Encourage creativity by asking your child to imagine having their own superpowers or living in the book’s setting.
Validate all responses to ensure the child feels heard and appreciated, fostering a comfortable environment for discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: Onyeka's journey introduces her to a world where people from diverse backgrounds possess unique powers, highlighting the beauty and strength in diversity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and celebrate differences in people around them, fostering a more inclusive environment at school and in communities.
Example Lesson: Understanding Identity
Explanation: Onyeka struggles with her identity and her newly discovered powers. Through her experiences, she learns more about who she is and her own strengths.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand that it's okay to be different and that self-discovery is a personal journey important for their own growth and confidence.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, Onyeka learns the importance of working together with others at the Academy to overcome challenges, emphasizing that collaboration can achieve greater outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to cooperate with peers in group activities or team sports, teaching them the value of collective effort and shared success.
Example Lesson: Courage in Facing Fears
Explanation: As Onyeka encounters various challenges, she shows courage and determination. Her bravery in confronting her fears head-on is a central theme.
Real-World Application: This instills in children the confidence to face their own fears, whether it's trying new activities, standing up for themselves, or dealing with difficult situations at school.