2023 ALA Best Graphic Novels for Children
CBC's August Hot Off the Press
"Finding inspiration in fantasy, history, and mythology, the book combines those elements along with a Japanese animation influence, resulting in an exhilarating adventure.[...] The art is detailed and lush, with beautiful colors throughout. Of particular note are the gorgeous showcases of water, whether in stunning waterfall images or an underwater view of the river with sunlight dappling at the surface. [...] Kariba is a mystical graphic novel about magic, self-discovery, and the delicate balance between human ambition and the natural world." - Foreword Reviews, Starred Review
[A]n astonishing fairy tale [...] The art is utterly breathtaking throughout, saturated with sumptuous color, enhanced with stupendous details, vivid with energy and action. A 2017 Kickstarter campaign made this wondrous graphic title possible–it's a wow-inducing phenomenal gift to be treasured." –
Booklist, Starred Review"This fast-paced work, full of daring acts and highlighting Siku's powerful voice, has a backdrop inspired by colonial history. The illustrations are reminiscent of an animated feature, with strong facial expressions and vivid hues. The varied style of the panels adds extra vigor, particularly when Siku is having watery visions, as the shapes and edges become fluid. [...] A dynamic, mystical coming-of-age story." – Kirkus Reviews
"This is an African fantasy-adventure graphic novel without comparison. The artworks draw the reader into Africa in a stunning appreciation for nature. The use of language, symbolism and engaging dialogue helps to keep one foot of the reader in African culture, and the other in global myth. The creators - Daniel Clarke, James Clarke and Daniel Snaddon - have made excellent synergy of their talents and experiences, to offer the world a story that cannot be ignored." –
World Kid Lit
"This is a glorious young adult adventure hitting all the right notes. It's emotionally strong, has a viable quest, suspense hanging over that, is well paced and a respect for various cultures of the times is evident. Even allowing for the creators having experience with animation and television, something as good as
Kariba as a first graphic novel really is remarkable."
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Slings & Arrows
"[A]nother stellar addition to Catalyst Press' catalog of African books published for North American readers." –
BooksYALove"Deftly scripted, impressively illustrated, and entertaining [...]
KARIBA is an unreservedly recommended pick for personal reading lists and elementary school, middle school, and community library Graphic Novel collections." –
Midwest Book Review"The story of Kariba Dam is a story of colonialism. But
Kariba is in no way a white savior narrative. Siku is her own agent, and forges her own way. Li
