Rick Riordan Presents: Serwa Boateng's Guide to Saving the World
#3 in Serwa Boateng Series
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
Twelve-year-old Serwa Boateng is fresh from accidentally unleashing the Witch-Eater—an ancient obayifo bent on devouring the gods themselves. Worse, the powers that once made Serwa the youngest Slayer in history are now housed inside her best friend, Roxy. To protect Roxy, defeat the Witch-Eater, and fix her own mistakes, Serwa must embark on a cross-continental quest steeped in Ghanaian mythology. From suburban Maryland to the sacred forests and lakes of Ghana, she and her friends hunt down divine relics, wrestle with trickster spirits, and confront the Slayer Council that trained her. In the end, Serwa must decide what she is willing to sacrifice—her powers, her friendships, or her own destiny—to save the world she loves.
Character compass
Serwa Boateng
Gavin Bailey
Mateo Méndez
Roxy Trotter
Eunju Kim
Uncle King
Discussion points
Why does Serwa choose to protect Roxy over regaining her powers immediately?
How do Ghanaian myths in the book differ from other mythologies you know?
What does the story suggest about asking for help when you make a mistake?
Which character do you relate to most, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Compare Serwa’s moral choices to real-life situations your child faces.
Create a family map activity to trace the group’s journey through Ghana.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Accountability
Explanation: Serwa owns up to unleashing the Witch-Eater and commits to fixing it.
Real-World Application: Admitting mistakes at home or school and working toward solutions.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: She faces danger despite losing her powers.
Real-World Application: Standing up for friends even when you feel uncertain.
Example Lesson: Cultural Pride
Explanation: Embracing Ghanaian heritage becomes Serwa’s source of strength.
Real-World Application: Learning and sharing family traditions with classmates.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Success hinges on every friend contributing unique skills.
Real-World Application: Collaborating on group projects and acknowledging each member’s role.