Overview and Outcomes:

This is a three-week Writing Root for Children of the Benin Kingdom by Dinah Orji.  It is the perfect novel to complement historical learning on the Kingdom of Benin.  The book follows the story of Ada, who discovers her true identity and must travel into the heart of the rainforest to heal the divisions that are occurring within the kingdom.  Through the sequence of learning, children will explore the story from various perspectives, comparing characters and writing letters and diary entries in role.  They will offer advice taken from warnings given and discover the meanings of new words within the context of the story. Throughout, children will be gathering information and building the skills towards writing a non-chronological report on the Kingdom of Benin.  There will also be plenty of opportunities to practise reading skills and take part in discussions around the events of the story.

Synopsis of Text:

Ada has lived close to the great rainforest for her whole life, helping her beloved Papa Eze to heal fellow villagers when they fall sick. But when Papa Eze himself becomes unwell he knows it s time to reveal to Ada her true heritage - a closely kept secret that has so far protected his daughter from her enemies.

Ada must now travel deep into the forest to discover the ancient Edo kingdom of Benin and use everything within her power to heal the terrible divisions that are tearing the kingdom apart. Pursued by those who want her dead, Ada sets off on an incredible journey which tests her strengths to their limit with just her close friends, the guidance of her ancestors and her own self-belief to help her.

Text rationale:

This novel perfectly complements historical learning on the Kingdom of Benin.  Bringing this historical context to life, the novel provides the context to explore and discuss the influence of this ancient kingdom.  Featuring a strong female protagonist, the book opens up the chance to discuss identity, heritage and belonging.  Children will also explore the meanings and pronunciations of significant names and items from West Africa, supported by the 'Fact vs Fiction' section at the back of the book.

Links and themes:

Kingdom of Benin, West Africa, Nigeria, identity, rainforest, kingdom, discovery, faith, belonging

Date written: July 2021