Mella and the N'anga: An African Tale

by Gail Nyoka

Mella must go on a perilous journey--one which her brother failed to complete--in order to help heal her father, the king of what is now Zimbabwe, who is gravely ill.

160 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2006

About the author

Gail Nyoka is an author, playwright and oral storyteller. She enjoys writing and telling stories for both young people and adults.

She was born in Trinidad, grew up in England and Wales and now lives in BC and Ohio. Her interests include researching the history and stories of Africa, reading poetry, and gardening.

Her previous publications include the Chalmers Award-winning stage play Mella Mella.

Check out Crone Chronicles on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CroneChronic...

Reviews

[Rhiannon's Reading Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mella and the N'anga will keep you eager to continue reading until the very last page. The wonderful, realistic, and strong female role models will give any girl the inspiration to embrace her strengths and power

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

Awards and Recognitions: Governor General’s Literary Award for Children’s Literature – text – Finalist - 2005

Set in Zimbabwe, this story is narrated by the N’anga, a wise woman, and has the feel of a folktale or legend. Long ago in Mopopoto, the king is dying from a mysterious sickness, a sickness that also afflicts his land. Drought threatens their food supply, and the threat of impending war looms as a rival tribe seeks to exploit the town’s weakness. Mella, the King’s Daughter, will do anything to save her father and her people. When the mysterious N’anga arrives to help them, she declares that only the Python Healer can save the king. After a failed attempt by her older brother to fetch the Python Healer, Mella seeks out the Python Healer herself. In this magical story of bravery and inner strength, Mella is transformed from a young girl who speaks when she shouldn’t into a strong young woman who learns how to do what must be done despite her fear.

[Hyper Sykoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book carries a beautiful, empowering story. Told with just the right words and radiating with such a strong energy, this book engraves its story into the mind of its reader. Gail Nyoka has done a truly beautiful job bringing life to the characters and their adventures. In my eyes, it deserves no less than 5 stars.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved the redemptive feminist story line in this book. it was really fun to read. powerful female characters.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good read. I enjoyed how it drew me into an ancient culture. It was a little predictable, but I still recommend it for anyone interested in reading an African folktale.

[Gail Nyoka]

I have to admit that I'm the author of this book, so can't give an objective review or rating. But, it was a finalist for several literary prizes.