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One Shadow on the Wall
An orphaned boy in contemporary Senegal must decide between doing what is right and what is easy as he struggles to keep a promise he made to his dying father.
Eleven-year-old Mor was used to hearing his father’s voice, even if no one else could since his father’s death. It was comforting. It was also a reminder that Mor had made a promise to his father before he passed: keep your sisters safe. Keep the family together. But almost as soon as they are orphaned, that promise seems impossible to keep. With an aunt from the big city ready to separate him and his sisters as soon as she arrives, and a gang of boys from a nearby village wanting everything he has—including his spirit—Mor is tested in ways he never imagined.
With only the hot summer months to prove himself, Mor must face a choice. Does he listen to his father and keep his heart true, but risk breaking his promise through failure? Or is it easier to just join the Danka Boys, whom in all their maliciousness are at least loyal to their own?
Eleven-year-old Mor was used to hearing his father’s voice, even if no one else could since his father’s death. It was comforting. It was also a reminder that Mor had made a promise to his father before he passed: keep your sisters safe. Keep the family together. But almost as soon as they are orphaned, that promise seems impossible to keep. With an aunt from the big city ready to separate him and his sisters as soon as she arrives, and a gang of boys from a nearby village wanting everything he has—including his spirit—Mor is tested in ways he never imagined.
With only the hot summer months to prove himself, Mor must face a choice. Does he listen to his father and keep his heart true, but risk breaking his promise through failure? Or is it easier to just join the Danka Boys, whom in all their maliciousness are at least loyal to their own?
448 pages, Hardcover
First published June 6, 2017
16 people are currently reading
923 people want to read
About the author
Leah Henderson
12 books79 followersLeah has always loved getting lost in stories. When she is not scribbling down her characters’ adventures, she is off on her own, exploring new spaces and places around the world.
Leah holds an MFA in Creative Writing. She teaches in Spalding University's graduate writing program and is visiting faculty in Hollins University's MFA program.
Leah holds an MFA in Creative Writing. She teaches in Spalding University's graduate writing program and is visiting faculty in Hollins University's MFA program.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
April 14, 2017
This deeply immersive novel takes the reader into a life that few ever see: the life of street kids in Senegal. Mor is an orphan who is visited by the spirits of his deceased parents at moments of need. The summer after his father dies in an accident, he tries to prove to his aunt that he can take care of his two little sisters on his own. As Mor struggles to make any income possible, he is taken under the wing of Demba, a fisherman with a mystical persona who the village people think is crazy. Even as he learns from Demba, he is harassed by the Danka Boys, a local gang that his former friend Cheikh has joined. Mor must decide how he can fulfill his wish to protect his sisters while keeping his integrity. One Shadow on the Wall seamlessly integrates so much about life in Senegal- from the family structures and traditions, to Islam and folk beliefs- that it teaches without being didactic at all. I loved getting to know Mor and his world and look forward to what Leah Henderson writes next!
April 21, 2017
Such a poignant and beautiful story! The writing is so immersive and captivating that I couldn't put it down. I absolutely adored Mor, his family, and his community. An absolute must-read!
April 24, 2017
A beautiful and sometimes lyrical middle grade story set in a culture and place rarely seen in the US for this age group. Most books I've seen or read that are set in Africa are geared toward younger readers and are picture books. While that is lovely, this novel gives readers a chance to fully immerse themselves in the setting and conflict in a deeper way because the story format is longer and able to be fleshed out more for a more mature audience. Even though the setting is different than most books in this age range and genre, the reader can still connect with what the main character, Mor, is struggling with. The ideas of bullying and gang-like violence in youth is a universal one. I highly recommend this book, especially as it offers a unique and diverse perspective of the world for middle graders.
I received a softcover, Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a softcover, Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher.
December 24, 2017
Yea! Here is a loud hoorah for adolescent literature - really heartfelt and well-done adolescent literature. Five cheers. I wish I knew how I happened across this novel. I don't remember but how ironic that I saw someone else with exactly the same book in hand as I was ushering at a symphony performance one evening. Small world. I asked her what she thought and she replied, "The writing is exquisite. I am there in this story." I agree.
Reminiscent to me of other strong adolescent characters such as Auggie in Wonder, Mor, the main protagonist in this story, is eleven years old rather than Auggie's ten. Both are tender-hearted young men whose lives have cast them a overwhelming challenge and who have the internal fortitude and courage to meet the daunting challenges before them. For neither boy are the days easy. Both face despair and failures. There were postulates or axioms in Wonder whereas in this novel there is advice "whispered" by a deceased father. "When your heart is open it will continue to fill" is one example. "When you search for opportunity, it will find you." Who doesn't long to believe that deceased love ones are close by our current realm?
I am shocked at the level of gang involvement and bullying in large cities and I suppose everywhere. Here is where the book reminded me of the adolescent biography Every Falling Star: The True Story of How I Survived and Escaped North Korea. Whether it is Africa, Korea or America, gangs are prevalent and often created for survival. However, the ruthless nature of the survival techniques challenges my skill and expertise. How does one help these young people?
This novel is not saccharin nor does it simplify the challenges for Mor, the hero in this story. It dwells on numerous themes including the importance of family, true friends, loyalty, commitment, promises, courage and watching out for one another. This novel beautifully portrays the concept of "village" and how it takes an entire village to raise a child. It also shows the importance of not judging and of being kind and thoughtful. The village idiot may not be an idiot at all. There are so many issues in the novel: waste, greed, avarice, hate, tradition, ignorance, books, schooling, healing, starvation, creativity, etc.
Demba, the fisherman, healer and friend intrigues me. ..."Demba's rambles about fish, skies, muddy water, and moon slivers started to relax him. He found them as natural as the birds tweeting in the trees and as expected as the buzzing of a fly." I hope more books follow this one and that Demba remains an important character.
We definitely are "not alone" in life and we do need one another. This book is a profound reminder of that guiding principal. Can't wait to have grandkids read this one.
Reminiscent to me of other strong adolescent characters such as Auggie in Wonder, Mor, the main protagonist in this story, is eleven years old rather than Auggie's ten. Both are tender-hearted young men whose lives have cast them a overwhelming challenge and who have the internal fortitude and courage to meet the daunting challenges before them. For neither boy are the days easy. Both face despair and failures. There were postulates or axioms in Wonder whereas in this novel there is advice "whispered" by a deceased father. "When your heart is open it will continue to fill" is one example. "When you search for opportunity, it will find you." Who doesn't long to believe that deceased love ones are close by our current realm?
I am shocked at the level of gang involvement and bullying in large cities and I suppose everywhere. Here is where the book reminded me of the adolescent biography Every Falling Star: The True Story of How I Survived and Escaped North Korea. Whether it is Africa, Korea or America, gangs are prevalent and often created for survival. However, the ruthless nature of the survival techniques challenges my skill and expertise. How does one help these young people?
This novel is not saccharin nor does it simplify the challenges for Mor, the hero in this story. It dwells on numerous themes including the importance of family, true friends, loyalty, commitment, promises, courage and watching out for one another. This novel beautifully portrays the concept of "village" and how it takes an entire village to raise a child. It also shows the importance of not judging and of being kind and thoughtful. The village idiot may not be an idiot at all. There are so many issues in the novel: waste, greed, avarice, hate, tradition, ignorance, books, schooling, healing, starvation, creativity, etc.
Demba, the fisherman, healer and friend intrigues me. ..."Demba's rambles about fish, skies, muddy water, and moon slivers started to relax him. He found them as natural as the birds tweeting in the trees and as expected as the buzzing of a fly." I hope more books follow this one and that Demba remains an important character.
We definitely are "not alone" in life and we do need one another. This book is a profound reminder of that guiding principal. Can't wait to have grandkids read this one.
June 6, 2017
I didn't set out to read this book in one sitting, but I ended up doing just that. The story quickly drew me into the world of Mor and his sisters and their struggle to stay together after being orphaned. Endangered by a gang of tough boys, Mor must keep his family safe with his own quick wits, the kindness of caring adults, and the reassurance that his parents' love will always be with him. This is a book that will expand young readers' understanding of the world and how to navigate it. The author's tenderness toward her characters shines through. When I finished this book, I held it to my chest. I'll read it again and again, and I'll give it to every middle-grade kid I know.
May 15, 2017
Wow. This book is simply stunning! I was pulled right in by Mor's voice--so tender and true--and by the precise (sometimes beautiful, sometimes appropriately ugly) details. This author did her work. Mor's impossible predicament made me ache for him and wonder which path he'd choose. Shoutout to his sister, Amina, whose provided a sharp-eyed counterpoint to the more compulsive, emotionally driven Mor. Their love for each other and the tug of their differing points of view was so real and one of my favorite aspects of this book.
Highly recommend to adults as well as young readers.
Highly recommend to adults as well as young readers.
June 12, 2017
It is rarely that I read a book that transports me from day to day world. One Shadow on the Wall did that for me. Set in Senegal, it is the story of Mor, who has sworn not only to keep his sisters with him after their last parent dies, but to earn enough money to support them and to pay his sister Amina's tuition at her dream school. But the world wants to knock Mor down, just as it has knocked the hopes and dreams of other similar boys. This book is thrilling and heartbreaking and inspiring, and Henderson's use of language and imagery is magical. This book will transport its young readers to somewhere new, and perhaps make them think about the larger world around them. Beautiful story.
November 20, 2017
This book really made its Senegalese setting come to life for me. Henderson creates a community that feels both harrowing and beautiful, but above all, by the end of the book, she makes this distant place feel familiar. I was so taken by the subtlety and rhythm of the language, and Mor completely stole my heart. I cheered for him all the way through, though I truly could not anticipate how the author was going to resolve his conflicts, which kept me on the edge of my seat. But Henderson pulls the threads of his narrative together in a way that felt believable rather than patronizing or too neat. So many lessons about bravery and family and love to savor...
August 27, 2017
The setting might be foreign to American readers, but the themes are real -- family, friends, bullies, responsibility, acceptance, a wise elder, the need to prove your worth, hard choices, making your parents proud.
The book was a little slow at the beginning for me, but once I was hooked, I couldn't put it down.
The book was a little slow at the beginning for me, but once I was hooked, I couldn't put it down.
June 30, 2017
One Shadow on the Wall is a sophisticated heartfelt story. Don't miss it. I want to read about Mor again, slowly.
July 30, 2017
When I opened the first pages of Henderson's 450 page novel, I never expected to finish it in one sitting. I was especially impressed by the way the author was able to make her characters so fallible, so human. It truly is a captivating and compelling read. I found myself bargaining with myself as I read, "Just one more chapter." But, I couldn't stop. I wanted to stay in this world forever. I needed to make sure the characters were okay. The characters, Mor and his sisters, continue to visit me in their dreams.
As a teacher, I value books that allow students to connect with a character over the death of a parent because so many of my students have experienced this. They will find solace in the strength and comfort Mor finds when his parents' spirits visit him and guide him. This is what many of my students have experienced themselves, but as middle and high schoolers, they often don't trust this. With this book, they can. I appreciate books that give students a view into the humanity behind even the bully characters--so that they find themselves both wanting justice for the main character and sympathizing with and connecting to those against him. After all, there is more alike in all of us than there is that is different. Being reminded of this is always a great gift. Thanks to Henderson for this!
As a teacher, I value books that allow students to connect with a character over the death of a parent because so many of my students have experienced this. They will find solace in the strength and comfort Mor finds when his parents' spirits visit him and guide him. This is what many of my students have experienced themselves, but as middle and high schoolers, they often don't trust this. With this book, they can. I appreciate books that give students a view into the humanity behind even the bully characters--so that they find themselves both wanting justice for the main character and sympathizing with and connecting to those against him. After all, there is more alike in all of us than there is that is different. Being reminded of this is always a great gift. Thanks to Henderson for this!
July 14, 2017
I am always keen on discovering new kidlit titles with an African setting and was excited to discover this story set in Senegal. While the book has a lot going for it - portraying what life can look like for children in Senegal, talking about the importance of extended family, in fact the community, to look out for each other, highlighting the plight of the many street children who live under deplorable conditions in Senegal, sharing an inspirational message to persevere, no matter how hard the circumstances - I have doubts whether young readers will find especially the beginning engaging enough to stick with it. In the first part of the book, the pace is rather slow and the story takes long to gain momentum. The language, while poetic at times, might be confusing to younger readers at times. An easy-to-access glossary for vocabulary not in English would have been helpful.
August 30, 2017
This book easily transported me to the dirt streets of Senegal. This poignant story of a boy named Mor and his sisters was beautifully written. It's nice to see more multicultural books on the shelves in our libraries. Mor and his sisters are orphans after their father dies in the opening scene of the book. His aunt comes from the city to take them away and split them up. Mor convinces her that he can take care of his sisters by himself. He wants to prove to her that he can do it even though he's only 11. He does secure a job fishing, but he has other problems. There are a gang of orphan boys who like to steal his fish and his money. Should he join this gang, so they can protect him and his sisters? This is an easy read and can be done in a couple of days, even though it's 430 pages. Interesting culture and characters.
March 3, 2018
Part realistic, part survival, lots of pain, grit, determination, growing courage.
BOOK TALK: Mor had made a promise to his father before he died: keep your sisters safe. Keep the family together. But almost immediately that promise seems impossible to keep. Their aunt from the big city wants to send each of them to different homes. The kids are given a couple months to make it on their own as a trial. Mor keeps hitting roadblocks in his efforts to take care of his sisters and perhaps the biggest one is the gang of boys who want everything Mor earns and they wouldn’t mind beating him up while they take it. The Gang offers a solution - join their gang and everything will be fine. But Mor knows this is not what his father would want, but so far Mor has been a failure at caring for his family. What can he do?
BOOK TALK: Mor had made a promise to his father before he died: keep your sisters safe. Keep the family together. But almost immediately that promise seems impossible to keep. Their aunt from the big city wants to send each of them to different homes. The kids are given a couple months to make it on their own as a trial. Mor keeps hitting roadblocks in his efforts to take care of his sisters and perhaps the biggest one is the gang of boys who want everything Mor earns and they wouldn’t mind beating him up while they take it. The Gang offers a solution - join their gang and everything will be fine. But Mor knows this is not what his father would want, but so far Mor has been a failure at caring for his family. What can he do?
January 4, 2025
This is such a well-written, lyrical story (with a little bit of magic realism!) about an 11 year old Senegalese orphan named Mor. Mor wants to prove to his Aunt that he can care for his sisters and live independently, but he struggles to avoid the attention of a local gang of boys. Each day brings a new challenge and for every step forward, Mor has to deal with a setback. Which makes this book perfect for middle schoolers. Amazon states that it's for kids ages 8-12, but I think 11-14 is a better range unless the younger kids are very strong readers.
I knew nothing about Senegal before I started it and there's a lot to learn. All the characters stand out but my favorite character, however? JEEG! The goat.
I knew nothing about Senegal before I started it and there's a lot to learn. All the characters stand out but my favorite character, however? JEEG! The goat.
June 2, 2017
This is a beautifully written and an emotionally intense, vivid story. I loved the way the book showcases the world of small-town Senegal and offers a window into Mor's life. Though the copy says it has elements of magical realism, I think what struck me was how the book captured what is magical about life and about Mor's everyday experience, even as he is struggling to support his family as an orphaned 11-year-old. It is so powerful, and I was completely swept up in the story.
June 8, 2017
One of the best books I've read this year. Leah Henderson's debut novel is simply captivating. A beautifully written tale of a young boy in Senegal who is determined to keep his family together - despite the very real dangers that come his way. Young Mor is faced with one tough decision after another, but with the help of his neighbors, his friends, and his family, Mor finds the will to not only survive, but to thrive. A gorgeous debut that is a must for every school and library collection.
October 13, 2018
I am so glad I finished reading Leah's debut novel! It took me a few months to put down other children's novels, only because I usually read contemporary or mystery novels.
At first I couldn't relate to the supernatural appearances of the main character's parents,but I grew to love the lessons he learned from each of his relatives and how self-reliant he was. Thank you, Leah, for sharing 11 year old Mor's story with your readers. I cannot wait to see what is on your writing journey next.
At first I couldn't relate to the supernatural appearances of the main character's parents,but I grew to love the lessons he learned from each of his relatives and how self-reliant he was. Thank you, Leah, for sharing 11 year old Mor's story with your readers. I cannot wait to see what is on your writing journey next.
February 2, 2020
I really liked this book set in Senegal. Mor’s parents are dead and it is up to him to keep his two sisters with him so they can be “one shadow on the wall”-a family. He sees his mother’s ghost and hears advice from his father’s ghost. He has a bully to deal with too. He becomes a fisherman and a mechanic. He is a great character and so are his sisters and their goat. I would love to share this book with the fifth graders. It is over 400 pages though, so the best readers only.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2017
One of the best books I've read all year. Mor's story is simultaneously sad and uplifting. Excellent writing, unique setting, beautiful storytelling. This is a modern classic. I loved everything about this book and the Fall family's journey. My only problem with this book is that it had to end. A must-read!
September 4, 2017
Just finished reading One Shadow on the Wall by Leah Henderson. What a gorgeous story. It's middle grade, beautifully crafted, loveable characters and....set in modern Senegal....I have REALLY needed some stories set in West Africa in my middle school library. In a world in need of diverse books, this novel really suits this need. I highly recommend this one!
April 4, 2018
Mor’s father has died, leaving the eleven-year-old the responsibility of providing for his two younger sisters. Mor’s small Senegalese village provides support, but there are few opportunities to earn money. Circumstances become even more dire when Mor finds himself targeted by a gang. Throughout the struggle to survive, the spirit of Mor’s father imparts inspiration, while a reclusive fisherman provides guidance and wisdom allowing hope to blossom.
In the beginning themes of grief overshadow the story, but gradually give away to self-determination and self-reliance. This uplifting multicultural title highlights the importance of family and the indomitable spirit.
In the beginning themes of grief overshadow the story, but gradually give away to self-determination and self-reliance. This uplifting multicultural title highlights the importance of family and the indomitable spirit.
July 21, 2018
When I first started reading this book, I had to look up where Senegal was in Africa ! Leah Henderson blends the story of young Mor and his sisters with the day to day life in the small villages of Senegal. A beautifully written story of love, loss, friendship, struggle, emotional turmoils and finally the joy of success. A must read of 11-12 year olds and teens.
April 22, 2020
One of my favorite YA books about a place I hold so dear to my heart - West Africa. Nearly 400 pages immersed me into my village during Peace Corps. Extra thanks to the author who grounded this story in a true experience of many young men sent away from homes to attend schools in the big cities. A must read!
September 10, 2017
Middle school age book about survival and street gangs in Senegal. Mor, an orphaned boy, is trying to keep his family together while dealing with bullying and street gangs violence/pressure. Sad to learn from author's note that this scenario is not all that uncommon.
September 27, 2017
I loved the ride into daily life in Senegal. I'm not sure what younger readers would make of the plot, especially the visits from the boy's deceased parents-not creepy, just an unusual thread. Perhaps that is part of the window into a life and culture so different from my norm.
November 12, 2017
Thoroughly engaging story. I loved the main character, Mor, so much. This is a story of courage, determination, and the power of one. Not only in one’s ability to overcome obstacles, but also the power of one having a positive impact on someone else. If I could, I’d give 4.5 stars.
January 24, 2018
One Shadow on the Wall is a beautifully written book that tells a powerful and superbly-crafted story. Readers will be entranced by Mor's journey and drawn into the lovely prose and Senegalese setting. A middle grade must!
May 15, 2018
I had the privilege of meeting the author of this book and learning the back story of Mor and his sisters. I loved the way she allowed the possibility of Mor to be a “real” child to exist through this story by allowing to be both good and not so good. An excellent book for middle school readers.
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April 5, 2020Street kid in Senegal. Friend has joined a gang. Do you do the right thing? How? I've done the thing where I waited 2 months to record it, so I can't say much more than that I enjoyed reading it, but that I did.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews