Annotation:
Aya is a beautifully drawn graphic novel that chronicles the life of 19 year old Aya as she grows up on the Ivory Coast in the 1970s. Aya, a dedicated student with ambitions of being a doctor, seems to be the voice of reason among her two best friends who always seem to get into trouble. Recommended for anyone 16+ due to sexual situations, drinking, and teen pregnancy.Book Talk:
The Ivory Coast during the 1970’s was prosperous and beautiful. For Aya, a 19 year old Ivorian girl, this was a time when her dreams of becoming a doctor seemed within reach (pgs 1-3). Her best friends, Adouja and Bintou, however don’t have the same ambitions and always seem to be getting into bad situations (pg 15). They sneak out at night to go dancing and fight over boys leaving Aya to be the voice of reason (pg 85). Can Aya realize her dreams and keep out of trouble?
Book Review:
Aya is the first installment in the Aya series by Abouet and Oubrerie. As the first in the series it does a wonderful job of drawing readers into the life of Aya, her friends, family, and Yop City but the ending leaves very much to be desired. It isn’t much of an ending per se as it is a cliff hanger meant to entice readers into getting the next installment. For anyone interested in reading Aya I would suggest getting the next two installments of the series as well- Aya of Yop City and Aya: The Secrets Come Out.
Although Aya is suppose to detail the life of Aya as she reaches adulthood on the Ivory Coast she very rarely seems to make an appearance in the book at all. Despite this, Aya offers a beautifully drawn glimpse into the culture of the Ivory Coast of Africa as well as the seemingly universal dramas of teenage girls.
Awards and Honors:
2006- Best First Album at the Angouleme International Comics Festival
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