Gr 1–4 —Eight-year-old Kwame is so excited to start Nkonyaa school where he will learn what type of magic he has and how to use it correctly. He can't wait to get his calabash from the Nkonyaa tree and start casting magic spells like everyone else, but when his calabash doesn't respond like normal, Kwame is left wondering what he has done wrong. His new friend Fifi encourages him, but will Kwame be kicked out of magic school before he learns anything? This fast-paced early chapter book is the first in a new series and takes readers on a fantastical adventure into a magic school that feels somehow both familiar and brand new. This magic is based on traditional Ghanaian culture; back matter includes an author's note explaining the connections and a glossary of terms used throughout. Familiar themes of friendship, standing up to bullies, and feeling different are woven in, adding to the delightfully creative setting where frogs with umbrellas protect students from indoor rain showers. The cliff-hanger ending will have readers anxiously looking for further installments. Bonus material includes a map of Africa, "About" sections for the author and illustrator, and discussion questions. VERDICT Recommended for all collections serving young readers.—Emily Beasley