Korobá: The Case of the Missing Kolo

Author-illustrator Àlàbá Ònájìn

Interest age: 7 to 11
Reading age: 7+

Published by Scallywag Press, 2026

  • Around the world
  • Graphic novels
  • Mystery

About this book

In the bustling fishing village of Makoko on the coast of Nigeria, Korobá and her friends Saidat and Jọba are excited for the Harvest Festival. They have been saving up for months, filling up their kolo boxes with coins and notes which they will break open on the special day to spend on treats from the market. 

But then, just days before the festival, Saidat’s kolo box goes missing! The friends leap into action, following clues to track down the thief and save the precious kolo box before the celebrations begin.

This graphic novel is brilliant fun and is filled with life and incredible artwork. Korobá is a strong and resilient female character, and she has more than a little bit of Tintin about her, fighting for what’s right alongside her little dog, Popi. 

Throughout the story, readers are immersed in the vibrant fishing village built on stilts above the water. The depictions of everyday life fishing, playing, visiting the market and celebrating the harvest are also a huge part of the book, and beautifully represent the community and culture of the area. 

An excellent choice for mystery fans and graphic novel enthusiasts.

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