Title: Chicken in the Kitchen
Author: Nnedi Okorafor
Illustrator: Mehrdokht Amini
The Story:
On the eve of the New Yam Festival in Nigeria, Anyaugo wakes up in the middle of the night to discover a giant chicken raiding the kitchen fridge. Anyaugo can’t let the naughty chicken ruin the harvest season celebrations but can she face her fears and confront the mischievous chicken? She might need the help of her friend the Wood Wit and perhaps she will discover that the chicken is not just any chicken…
Favourite Spread:
Mehrdokht’s illustrations are rich and vibrant and bring the Nigerian New Yam Festival to life. I loved this spread where we first see the giant chicken.
Nnedi’s created a lovely character in Wood Wit, the tricksy friend of Anyaugo. You can often find the Wood Wit hidden in the wood of Mehrdokht’s illustrations. My favourite spread was this conversation between the Wood Wit and Anyaugo.
The Verdict:
This is a colourful book full of Nigerian heritage that tells the story of a young girl being brave, facing her fears and realising that things are not always what they first appear to be. And don’t forget to look out for the cheeky Wood Wit!
Publisher: Lantana Publishing
Publication date: 28 June 2019 (special edition)
ISBN: 978-1911373919
I am very grateful to the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. This voluntary review contains my honest opinion.
Picture Book Perfect 
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