De vloek van de schelpen

by Efua Traoré

Kuki is net verhuisd. Ze voelt zich nog niet thuis in haar nieuwe huis en ook niet op school. Ze ontdekt een verlaten strandhuis vol schaduwen en schelpen. Daar ontmoet ze Enilo, een meisje
dat daar lijkt te wonen. Eindelijk een nieuwe vriendin! Maar kan ze Enilo wel vertrouwen?

Prachtige jeugdroman over een vriendschap die je leven verandert van Zilveren Griffel-winnaar Efua Traoré.

Genres: Middle Grade, Fantasy, Africa, Nigeria, Fiction, Mythology, Childrens

320 pages, Hardcover

Published August 1, 2023

Reviews

[BookOfCinz · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love African Mythology books and one that's told from a middle school main character makes it feels like an adventure.

If you are looking for a book that is filled with adventure, mythology and mystery, I highly recommend this one.

[Insert Name Here · Rating 5 out of 5]

Efua's first book, Children of the Quicksand, was a fantastic introduction to the magical country of Nigeria. This second novel continues the tradition. Set in a small town rather than the tiny village and bustling city of the previous novel, this focuses on another Nigerian folkbeing, the Abiku.

Along with the fantasy element, there's a well written story about finding your footing in a new place and a new family. Kuki's pain and confusion are so well written here, it's almost painful to read. Anyone who's had to deal with these things will find it very familiar, and anyone who hasn't will learn what it's like.

I've read several books lately that merge real life events with fantasy stories, and they've all been fantastic (literally). This one ranks very high on that list. I enjoyed learning a little bit about Nigerian life, and I'm looking forward to selling this book. A perfect summer read.

[Els · Rating 3 out of 5]

De vloek van de schelpen. Door: Efua Traoré.

Dit is een boek dat ik niet zelf gekozen zou hebben om te lezen, ook niet als ik nog jong was. Toch ben ik blij dat ik het wel gelezen heb, dank u Saskia ;)

De vloek van de schelpen is anders dan de meeste boeken die ik lees. Traoré neemt de lezer mee in de magische wereld van de Abiku-verhalen uit Nigeria. Tof om kennis te maken met een cultuur die zo anders is dan de onze!

Een boek dat je meer over de wereld leert door ‘gewoon maar een (jeugd)-roman’ te lezen heeft bij mij een streepje voor. Het is dan ook nog eens een spannend verhaal dat je pagina na pagina aan het papier geluisterd houdt.

Naast magisch en anders is het verhaal ook heel alledaags en herkenbaar. Kuki is net verhuisd, woont met haar moeder in bij diens nieuwe vriend en heeft nog geen vrienden op haar nieuwe school. Ze heeft het best lastig en voelt zich eenzaam. Tot ze Enilo ontmoet. Maar wie is Enilo eigenlijk echt…?

Door het samenvallen van het magische en het alledaagse springt dit boek er echt uit. Een aanrader voor wie graag reist, op papier.

[Mireille]

Na het goed ontvangen Kinderen van het drijfzand schreef Efua Traoré nog een boek over volksverhalen in Nigeria. Ze was niet uitverteld over de verhalen die ze zelf in haar kindertijd had gehoord. Gelukkig maar, want nu kunnen we in De vloek van de schelpen weer over een ander interessant stukje cultuur lezen.

Hoofdpersoon is de 12-jarige Kokumo (ook Kuki genoemd), die met haar moeder is ingetrokken bij diens nieuwe vriend. Omdat ze zwanger is, helpen Kuki en een tante regelmatig mee in het huishouden. Kuki wordt alleen bang van de verhalen van tante Bisola, die in het bestaan van de kwade Abiku-geesten gelooft. Steeds als Kuki zich even niet helemaal fit voelt, komt tante met amuletten aanzetten. Dat is toch onzin, want de Abiku bestaan toch zeker niet?

Dit oude volksverhaal loopt als een rode draad door het begin van het boek. De nieuwe school die het gevolg van de verhuizing is, is namelijk eerst belangrijker voor Kuki. Het lukt haar niet echt om nieuwe vrienden te maken. Totdat het meisje Moji, wonend in dezelfde straat, belangstelling voor haar krijgt. Kuki is beter in wiskunde dan Moji, dus kan zij toch wel haar huiswerk maken? En als echte vriendin kan ze ook mooie nieuwe gympen voor Moji’s verjaardag kopen. Kuki voelt zich er niet helemaal goed bij, ziet wel dat Moji onaardig gedrag tegen iedereen vertoont, maar doet toch haar best om aan de opdrachten te voldoen. Haar stiefvader grijpt in op het moment dat ze geld uit zijn portemonnee wil pakken voor de geëiste schoenen.

Ondertussen heeft Kuki op haar verjaardag een bijzonder huis met veel schelpen ontdekt. Het heeft een vreemde aantrekkingskracht, ook doordat ze er het meisje Enilo ontmoet dat daar lijkt te wonen. Ze zijn beide even oud, hebben dezelfde interesses. De band voelt gelijk vertrouwd en Enilo wordt een echte vriendin. Kuki heeft later echter wel twijfels, want Enilo vertelt niet veel over zichzelf en blijkt dan ook een link met de Abiku te hebben.

Zonder verdere details weg te geven, kan gezegd worden dat het verhaal goed afloopt. Hoewel er in het laatste deel een magisch-realistisch gebeurtenis plaatsvindt, is Traoré in haar nawoord realistisch. Het geloof in de Abiku is een aannemelijke verklaring voor het bestaan van erfelijke ziekten zoals sikkelcelanemie, waardoor meerdere kinderen binnen één familie overleden.

De vloek van de schelpen is een aantrekkelijk boek voor kinderen vanaf 10 jaar, die graag lezen over andere landen. Universele thema’s als vriendschap, pesten en familie zijn een rode draad, aangevuld met Nigeriaanse volksverhalen en woorden.
Prettig vertaald door Sandra Hessels.

[Aisha (thatothernigeriangirl) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Traore has done it again with her latest book! I enjoyed the fresh outlook she gave to Abiku in this story. Admittedly, the mystery didn’t live up to the standard she’d set with Children of the Quicksands, but she clearly knows how to write a good ending.

It is fast paced, and contains many character lessons for its target audience (early adolescent readers). I especially love the “character lessons” but because it mirrors typical storytelling I grew up with in Nigeria, where the storyteller would always ask us what the “moral of the story” was 😄— so props for the nostalgia it induced in me.

Ps: the ease with which Kuki goes to house of shells is abnormal for a young girl growing up in Lagos. She was too bold 🤣

[Geerte]

(Maar dan de vertaling)
Ja, mooi. In zekere zin allemaal best voorspelbaar en zo, maar dat maakte niet uit; ik vloog erdoorheen en heb er erg van genoten. Ik moet Kinderen van het drijfzand ook echt eindelijk gaan lezen.

[Bookmaniac_60 · Rating 5 out of 5]

QUOTE
"In vain your bangles cast
Charmed circles at my feet
I am Abiku, calling for the first
And the repeated time."

𝕀 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕𝕟'𝕥 𝕡𝕦𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕓𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕕𝕠𝕨𝕟 𝕒𝕤 𝕤𝕠𝕠𝕟 𝕒𝕤 𝕀 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕚𝕥. 𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕠𝕣𝕪 𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕒𝕚𝕝𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕟𝕚𝕘𝕖𝕣𝕚𝕒 𝕞𝕪𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕝𝕠𝕘𝕪 𝕒𝕓𝕠𝕦𝕥 𝕒 𝕐𝕠𝕣𝕦𝕓𝕒 𝔻𝕖𝕚𝕥𝕪 𝕔𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕖𝕕 𝔸𝕓𝕚𝕜𝕦.

"Abiku refers to the spirits of children who die before reaching puberty; a child who dies before twelve years of age being called an Abiku, and the spirit, or spirits, who caused the death being also called Abiku.

𝕂𝕦𝕜𝕚 𝕚𝕤 𝕤𝕙𝕪, 𝕤𝕖𝕝𝕗 𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕖𝕣𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕘 𝕘𝕚𝕣𝕝 𝕨𝕙𝕚𝕔𝕙 𝕞𝕒𝕕𝕖 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕘𝕖𝕥 𝕓𝕦𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕖𝕕 𝕚𝕟 𝕤𝕔𝕙𝕠𝕠𝕝. 𝕊𝕙𝕖 𝕨𝕒𝕤 𝕡𝕠𝕤𝕤𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕖𝕕 𝕓𝕪 𝕒𝕟 𝕒𝕓𝕚𝕜𝕦 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕓𝕚𝕣𝕥𝕙 𝕓𝕦𝕥 𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕖𝕕 𝕦𝕡 𝕌𝕟𝕜𝕠𝕨𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕝𝕪 𝕓𝕖𝕗𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕚𝕥/ 𝕙𝕖𝕣, 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕚𝕣 𝕗𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕤𝕙𝕚𝕡 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕘𝕖𝕤 𝕂𝕦𝕜𝕚 𝕚𝕟 𝕤𝕠 𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕪 𝕨𝕒𝕪𝕤. 𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕠𝕣𝕪 𝕨𝕒𝕤 𝕓𝕖𝕒𝕦𝕥𝕚𝕗𝕦𝕝𝕝𝕪 𝕨𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕥𝕖𝕟 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕡𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕥 𝕝𝕠𝕧𝕖, 𝕗𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕤𝕙𝕚𝕡, 𝕗𝕒𝕞𝕚𝕝𝕪, 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕒𝕘𝕖, 𝕗𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕒𝕤𝕪, 𝕞𝕪𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕝𝕠𝕘𝕪, 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕘 𝕒𝕕𝕦𝕝𝕥.

[Sarah (sarahanneisreading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars

[cookies_for_pookies · Rating 5 out of 5]

very good, I know I say this all the time but this would make a great animated movie

[Hiba · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5*

This was a cute and entertaining read. I always love when stories have much of a culture in them. It gives them soul.
I think it makes for a great piece of children literature and it's definitely something I would recommend to my kids, if I had any. Aside from the cultural aspect, the book also bears lots of good and honest values and would teach kids valuable lessons.

[Boakye Alpha · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Shells are houses, you know. They are abandoned homes.”
“You cannot run from that which is part of you. You cannot run from yourself.”

After a long reading slump (which has nothing to do with the book but my recent schedules), I have been able to finally finish“The House of Shells” by Efua Traore and I suddenly feel refreshed to jump on my next book.

"The House of Shells" is a captivating and fresh interpretation of the Yoruba myths surrounding Abikus. Drawing from the Yoruba abiku myth, which portrays Abikus as spirits of children who experience repeated deaths and rebirths in the mortal world, this young adult fiction takes readers on a rollercoaster ride. With its bold narrative, "The House of Shells" delves into the depths of this folklore, offering readers a unique and enthralling experience.

Short chapters, Language use & plot:
Traore's masterful storytelling ensures a seamless flow between each chapter, effortlessly guiding the reader from one scene to the next. The transitions between events are executed with precision, creating a natural progression that propels the reader forward, eager to uncover what comes next.

The author's use of simple and concise sentences enhances the readability of the book. With short chapters, readers are able to easily navigate through the story, keeping them engaged from beginning to end. The straightforward also language employed allows readers of all ages to effortlessly immerse themselves in the narrative, making it accessible to a wide audience.



Character Development:
Each of the book's characters is expertly developed, with their own distinct personalities and objectives. The story's portrayal of their interactions and personal development is incredibly realistic, making it simple for readers to empathise with the characters. Traore has a wonderful gift for developing characters that young adult readers can relate to on a deep level. The main characters deal with a variety of obstacles, have to make tough choices and manage complex relationships in a way that feels totally honest and realistic. Throughout the whole novel, readers are readily taken into the problems, feelings, and individual journeys of the characters.

Let's delve into the captivating world of the characters:

Kuki:
As the main character, Kuki's life takes an astonishing turn when she encounters a mysterious and intriguing new friend named Enilo. This encounter serves as a pivotal moment in Kuki's life, leading to unforeseen transformations and revelations.

Enilo (the one who went away):
Enilo emerges as an enigmatic figure, draped in an aura of mystery. With her visually striking appearance and intriguing actions, she becomes a source of fascination for both Kuki and readers.

Enilo's actions and behaviour only deepen the mystique surrounding her. Frequently disappearing for extended periods or appearing in unexpected places, she exudes an air of secrecy that fuels the mystery in the book.

Throughout the book, Traore skillfully explores the intricate push and pull dynamics between Kuki and Enilo as they navigate their individual desires for belonging and their shared quest for life.

Moji:
Oh, Moji, how I despised her (well, not entirely). However, what makes her story compelling is the human touch added by the author. Despite her role as a bully, Moji is not simply a one-dimensional character. Traore gradually reveals fragments of her backstory throughout the book, allowing readers to empathize and feel compassion for her. And her growth is evident at the end of the book.

“The House of Shells” as a book of lessons:
The House of Shells" masterfully navigates the complex realm of morality, offering readers valuable insights into the human condition. Through Kuki's moral compass, the novel delicately imparts timeless lessons about the intricacies of right and wrong, reminding us that humans are flawed beings who can only strive for improvement.

This poignant narrative serves as a gentle reminder that morality is not black and white; it exists in shades of grey. The story weaves together the strengths and weaknesses of its characters, emphasizing the significance of self-awareness, personal growth, and the constant pursuit of betterment. Even when we stumble, this tale teaches us that redemption is always within our reach.

Also, one of the novel's most compelling aspects is its exploration of the devastating impact of bullying. Traore fearlessly confronts this issue head-on, shedding light on the profound emotional and psychological harm it inflicts on both victims and perpetrators alike. Through her vivid portrayals, she exposes the intricate power dynamics, manipulations and emotional misery that often permeate these destructive relationships. By doing so, Traore provides readers with a multifaceted understanding of bullying and the lasting scars it can leave behind.

“The House of Shell “ as a character:

In the book, the eponymous house takes on a captivating character of its own, becoming an enigmatic entity that mesmerises both the readers and the protagonist, Kuki. Throughout the narrative, the house assumes a central role, intricately woven into the very fabric of the story.

"The House of Shells" transcends being a mere physical structure; it possesses a distinct personality and presence that profoundly influences the events and characters within the book. It almost seems to possess a life force of its own which is later proven to have a tree that serves as a doorway to the abiku world. Beyond its tangible existence, becomes a haven, a sanctuary for both Enilo and, at certain moments, Kuki when she seeks solace and escapes. By skillfully personifying the house and imbuing it with symbolic meaning, the author masterfully creates a multi-dimensional narrative that captivates readers and deepens their understanding of the story's themes.

Element of Family:
The element of family plays a significant role, in shaping the experiences and growth of the main character, Kuki. The presence of Dr D, Kuki's mother, and her aunt adds layers of complexity to the narrative, showcasing the multifaceted nature of familial relationships.

Kuki's aunt, although sometimes misguided, genuinely cares for her niece's well-being. Despite her flawed approach, her heart is in the right place. She is later proven to be right to insist on her use of charms.

The interactions between Kuki and her family members evoke a range of emotions, resonating with readers who can relate to the intricacies of family relationships. The moments of love, frustration, and growth create a realistic portrayal of the joys and challenges inherent in familial bonds.

In the end, this novel proved to be a worthwhile read, leaving me eager to delve into more books by this author. I would give it a rating of 3.5 stars.

[Amy (Golden Books Girl) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Efua’s debut Children of the Quicksands last summer so I’ve been eagerly awaiting her sophomore release and it didn’t disappoint. It’s the story of Kuko, who has just moved in with her new stepfather, and who some people believe to be possessed by an Abiko, although others think this is impossible. She’s struggling to fit in at school and is being treated badly by a classmate, but then one night she visits the mysterious House of Shells and meets Enilo, who becomes her best friend until she makes a horrifying discovery about she really is. Kilo would be impossible not to sympathise with, she just wants to fit in and make friends, but obstacles keep getting in her way, and I wanted nothing more than for everything to turn out well for her in the end. As with Efua’s first book, I loved learning more about both Nigerian culture in the present day and its legends and myths, and the Abiko were fascinating to learn about. This has such a tense, ethereal vibe to it and it’s so atmospheric in terms of the speculative element, but then the contemporary side is also brilliantly written and shows that sometimes people are cruel for reasons you may not expect. Overall, I think Efua is such a talented writer and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with and releases next.

[Katarina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dit is het tweede boek dat ik van Efua Traoré las en ik heb van beide boeken genoten. Ik werd direct meegezogen in het verhaal en wilde doorlezen tot ik wist hoe het zou aflopen. Zowel Kinderen van het drijfzand als dit boek zijn magisch en spannend. Het is heerlijk om je te verliezen in een compleet andere wereld.

[Val · Rating 4 out of 5]

I reas this book as part of the Brilliant Bpok Award long list, end really enjoyed it!

I thought it was well written, both in style but also in the sense that it allowed me (a white, British reader) to understand what was gping on, and not feel confused due to cultural differences.

The ending made me tear up a little bit (in a good way)!

However, it did initially remind me of "When Marnie was There" (Joan G. Robinson), with the abandoned house, lonely school girl, and a friend who may or may not be a spirit; however it was different enough that this wasn't an issue, and I still enjoyed reading it.

[Katja Smit · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enige twijfel tussen 3 en 4 sterren, maar toch gekozen voor 3. Het is een heel goed verhaal, zonder meer. Maar ik kreeg er een minder warm gevoel van dan van Kinderen van het drijfzand.

Een verhuizing, een verlaten strandhuis in Nigeria, een boom vol kindergeesten, een nieuwe vriendin die eigenaardig gedrag vertoont, een meisje dat de leerlingen in haar klas in haar greep houdt: meer dan voldoende ingrediënten voor een meeslepend en spannend magisch verhaal.

Het verhaal is gebaseerd op traditionele Nigeriaanse mythes en volksverhalen en het geloof in Abiku.

B-boek, 2023, Nigeria, vriendschap, magie, sagen en legenden.

[Olivia-Savannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a very solid read.

I was impressed with how well the author balanced the magical and non-magical elements.

I thought I'd like the folklore and mythology elements more. But they mostly came in at the end and felt a bit too quick and rushed. I think they could've been slowed down and explored in more depth.

However, the contemporary elements about the changes in the family, and moving and joining a new school where you're being bullied, were all done and handled incredibly well.

I liked this and would definitely recommend it to parents and children.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an interesting way to weave in Yoruba myths and find your place in life, which for a middle grader involves mainly school and home. This book is perfect for readers to help assert themselves and be true to who they must be. I urge you to read this book . It will help you be more empathetic.

[Blessing John · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25✨

Brilliant!!! At some point I had my doubts about where the story was headed but it bounced back with a bang and delivered big time. Kudos to Efua on spinning such a spell binding story off this subject matter that has been interrogated a number of times in African literature and with such fresh perspective too.

[Biebjuf Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ik luisterde dit boek via de online bibliotheek, en was daar blij mee, want ik denk niet dat ik sommige woorden uit dit boek juist had gelezen/uitgesproken.

Het was dat ik wilde weten hoe het verhaal af zou lopen, anders was ik halverwege afgehaakt. Er zat voor mij te weinig in. Ik denk dat ik dit verhaal vrij snel zal vergeten.

[Joy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cute middle grade. I adore that it is set in Lagos and is based on Nigerian beliefs and folklore. You get a lovely mix of tradition while following Kuki (our main characters) journey with adjusting into a new school and dealing with bully’s.

[Kaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful story telling wrapped in Nigerian mythology. I enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed her first book , Children of the Quicksands.

Well written a book to ibspire the young reader .... or anyone who picks it up! Recommended

[Madre Ejima · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book by Efua that I've read to my kids, and they loved it. They get a little scared sometimes, but we find that Efua doesn't write to scare and the endings have been good at quelling any fears. I've already got her next two lined up and ready to go.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible, love it, couldn't put it down. Full review to follow.

[Reema · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a sweet book with a very powerful message!

[Fats · Rating 5 out of 5]

Efua has done it again!

[Hanneke · Rating 3 out of 5]

Weer erg bijzonder en interessant magisch realistisch verhaal uit de Nigeriaanse cultuur. 3,5 ster.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really lovely modern take on a Nigerian folk tale. X

[Sophie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Een verhaal over de kracht vinden in jezelf. Ook kinderen moeten dat leren en voor hen is het soms nog complexer. De Afrikaanse invloeden geven het verhaal een mooie extra beleving.

[Dorcas Eduk · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't believe in Abiku
But this story was an interesting one

[Emmanuel Precious · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love mythology especially African mythology where magic juju is being showcased this book ate