77 pages • 2 hours read
The Door of No Return
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Book Brief
The Door of No Return
Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Middle Grade | Published in 2022432
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Upper Kwanta, Ghana • 1860s
2022
Middle grade
10-14 years
Super Short Summary
The Door of No Return by Kwame Alexander follows the story of 11-year-old Kofi from Upper Kwanta, West Africa, in 1860. Kofi's life is intertwined with his family, culture, and the Offin River. His world is disrupted as English colonial influence grows. A tragic event during a tribal wrestling match triggers a series of harrowing events, forcing Kofi on a perilous journey where he must summon immense courage to face a terrifying fate. Insensitivity: violence, death, cultural and linguistic conflicts, colonialism, displacement, and upheaval.
Emotional
Mysterious
Dark
Challenging
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
6,515 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Kwame Alexander's The Door of No Return is widely lauded for its lyrical prose and compelling portrayal of historical events. Reviewers praise its emotional depth and engaging narrative for young readers. However, some criticize its pacing and complexity, which may challenge less experienced readers. Overall, it's a powerful, resonant story with significant educational value.
Who Should Read The Door of No Return?
Readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories marked by historical context and emotional depth, such as in Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson or Crossover by Kwame Alexander himself, will be captivated by The Door of No Return. This book will particularly resonate with young adults who appreciate heartfelt narratives that explore identity and resilience.
6,515 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
432
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Upper Kwanta, Ghana • 1860s
2022
Middle grade
10-14 years
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