The Changing Man, by Tomi Oyemakinde - Kelly
Ife is a young girl who’s plucked out of her previously cosy state school life when she’s chosen for a prestigious boarding school’s “Urban Achievers” programme. Finding herself in a world of privilege and wealth, Ife feels confined.
But soon, something far worse than snobbish teachers rears its head. Dead animals are being found in the woods surrounding the school. Kids are vanishing, only to return days later, with their personalities altered. Some never come back at all…
Rumours start flying, about a creature that’s haunted the school’s halls before, called “the changing man”.
Ife soon crosses paths with Ben, whose brother went missing not long before she arrived, and convinces Ife and her newfound friend Bijal to join forces and find the truth. What unravels is a mystery that spans decades of the schools dark history, the truth covered up and the narrative controlled.
Ife is a smart and strong girl who won’t be stopped from saving her new friends. The world has a vibrant and real feel to it, and you won’t be able to keep from wondering who the villain of the story truly is.
The Changing Man brings a beloved nostalgia back through its writing. Those familiar with “The Demon Headmaster” series, which featured a strange, supernatural foe and some very gutsy characters, will love this book. It’s got mysteries to explore and excellently timed humour.
The book has a great vibe to it, and I would love to see more from this author; they’ve set up a wonderful world and I want to know more!
Kelly
