This book was recommended to me by a librarian friend when I asked friends for suggestions of something light to read on the plane during my trip to Namibia. Since there are Himba people in Namibia, the Binti books were the perfect suggestion.

I really enjoyed this story. It was fresh and original, and I enjoyed the elements of Himba culture that were woven into the story.

My only criticism is that Okorafor rushes the story in spots. She does too much telling, and not enough showing. I needed more time to see Binti adjust to being on the ship and away from home and to develop relationships with others on the ship. Similarly, I needed more time to understand her ultimate transition from fear to acceptance. The bones were there, but Okorafor could have fleshed this out more.

Still, the book held my interest and I looked forward to reading the next book.