Children Who Experience Repeated Deaths and Rebirths | A Review of House of Shells By Efua Traore

“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 an 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.

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About the Writer: Boakye D. Alpha is a self-published poet, screenwriter, filmmaker, vlogger, and entrepreneur. With a BA in English from Kwame Nkrumah University, he has won awards like the Tony Elumelu Storytellers Fund and the Multichoice Talent Factory scholarship. Published in magazines worldwide, he uses his skills to address societal issues and advocate for minorities. Boakye supports mental health, diversity, reading culture, and fights against gender-based violence and child marriage.