FLYING THROUGH WATER

A Ghanaian boy finds himself at the mercy of human traffickers.

Junior high student Sena lives with his mother, grandfather, and two younger siblings; Ma left Sena’s abusive father behind in the town of Sogakope, settling her family in the village of Tovime. Sena loves spending time with his grandfather and hearing tales about his life. As the oldest child, Sena feels obligated to help with farmwork every morning and make sacrifices for the sake of his family. When a flashy, well-dressed man known as Jack of Diamonds visits the village, many of the boys agree to go with him, lured by the promise of wealth in exchange for work. Sena is hesitant at first, but after more difficulties arise, he also agrees to go. He ends up living in wretched conditions on a small island in a lake. The cruel master he works for uses violence to keep the children he’s purchased for his fishing business in line. Sena realizes he’ll perish if he doesn’t escape. During his journey to freedom, he has run-ins with a mysterious water creature. Wolo skillfully sheds light on the horrific practice of the trafficking of children, and the grim situations many are forced to live and work in—but she also tells a story of hope and perseverance. The vividly described settings include imagery that paints the scenes for readers as the story unfolds.

A powerful look at human suffering and the will to survive.