Children of the Benin Kingdom

Ada enjoys a carefree life in a village that sits close to the great rainforest. She helps her beloved Papa Eze to heal fellow villagers when they fall sick. But then Papa Eze himself becomes unwell - and he knows it's time for him to reveal to Ada a secret that he has kept for many years, to try to protect his daughter from her ruthless enemies. Ada now has to travel deep inside the forest - into the heart of the Benin Kingdom - to discover her true heritage, and to save her life.
An immersive adventure story, that transports children to another world and is the perfect read for anyone with an interest in Black history, the Benin Bronzes, West Africa and African children's stories.

- Immerses readers in the culture and history of the amazing historical Kingdom of Benin

- Shortlisted for the Historical Association's Young Quills Award 2021 for the best children's fiction.

- Detailed appendix full of fascinating facts about the Benin Kingdom

Children of the Benin Kingdom is fast paced adventure story, set in one of Africa's most fascinating civilisations, the Edo Kingdom of Benin. Written by British Nigerian author Dinah Orji, the book appeals to any child that likes to be transported to another world and is about friendship, loyalty and the bonds of family. The story is rich in historical detail and the cultural traditions of West Africa and as accurate historical fiction it is also perfect for celebrating Black history. Reviews
"This is a gripping adventure story that offers something fresh and original to the middle grade historical fiction market." Books for Topics, children's fiction reviews blog
"A riveting historical adventure… as much about friendship and loyalty and the bonds of family as a quest for identity." Books for Keeps, children's fiction magazine
"When reading this book, you become completely absorbed into the culture of the West African people … because the story is rich and gripping." Reading Zone, children's fiction reviews blog

Dinah Orji is a British Nigerian author, who draws on her heritage to write stories inspired by West African history and culture as well as her own childhood, some of which was spent in the Nigerian city of Nsukka. Children of the Benin Kingdom - an historical fiction set in the Kingdom of Benin - was published by Dinosaur Books in 2020 and was Dinah's debut title.
Dinah works as an accountant in the film industry and has worked for companies such as Pathe, Goldcrest Films and Framestore.

Aside from writing, Dinah's main interest is travel and she spends around three months each year visiting countries all around the world.