About the Setting

The setting of Akata Witch is in modern-day Nigeria.  Some of the scenery and customs may be unfamiliar to American readers.  Here’s some helpful information about Nigeria and Nigerian culture that may clarify some parts of Akata Witch:

Map:

Akata Witch takes place in Nigeria, near the capitol city of Abuja.  Here is a map for reference:

Map of Nigeria

You can also search for Nigeria on Google Maps.

Customs and Culture:

Juju: What is juju?  In Akata Witch, juju is the name of the magic that can be performed by Leopard People.  Most juju requires a juju knife to do, except in the case of a person’s natural magical ability.  In real life, the term is one used to describe witchcraft or magic performed through the use of a specific object.  The term is usually used in reference to West Africa, but is also used in some African American groups.  Click here to read more about juju.

Food:  Nnedi Okorafor often references the food that Sunny and the others consume throughout the book.  Nigerian food is full of flavor and is often prepared with chili peppers and palm oil.  Click here to learn more about Nigerian food.  Akata Witch also offers an Leopard alternative to the popular Nigerian dish of pepper soup:  Tainted pepper soup, made with peppers that grow near where magical brews are dumped out.  Be careful though, if prepared incorrectly this soup will explode!

Akata:  What does Akata Witch mean?  Akata is a derogatory term used to describe Americans or blacks born outside of Africa.  It’s literal meaning is “bush animal.”  It is a very rude term, and Sunny feels very hurt when her classmates use it to taunt her.