Inspired by Pan-African mythology, Into the Wild is a captivating adventure about two young people who team up to brave a magical jungle in search of a ruthless monster. Ayana Gray's acclaimed debut novel became an instant New York Times bestseller and was acquired for adaptation by Netflix even before its release .
Koffi didn't choose to be a beast keeper. Her destiny was set by her father, who, upon his death, left her only debts, which she and her mother will pay off by caring for the fearsome creatures of the Night Zoo. All Koffi desires is freedom, and she's about to achieve it when, through her own fault, a simple accident turns into a major catastrophe, thanks to a power she never even imagined existed.
Ekon knew exactly what his destiny was: to follow in his father and brother's footsteps by becoming a Child of the Six—the group of warriors responsible for maintaining order and peace in Lkossa. When an accident interrupts this final rite of passage, he is called upon to help. But instead, he lets a fugitive escape. Never mind that they have encountered the Shetani—the vicious monster that has plagued the city for nearly a century—and that the fugitive girl seems to have the power to contain the beast. Ekon chose to let her go, and this jeopardizes his chances of becoming a warrior.
Now, Ekon must reclaim his own destiny, and Koffi must change his. Their only chance is to find the Shetani. But to reach the heart of the jungle alive and unharmed, they'll need to form a tentative alliance. But the Greater Jungle is a place filled with wild magic and untold dangers.
The hunt begins. But are they the hunters or the hunted?
“A fiery mystery mixed with a gripping coming-of-age tale and a touch of romance.” — The New York Times
“A beautiful blend of mythology, romance, and action, and it ends with a hint of much more to come... A dazzling debut.” — Kirkus Reviews
"The word 'epic' doesn't even begin to describe the twists, turns, dazzling myths, and magical quests that fill the pages of Into the Jungle . It's the kind of read that not only transports but also transcends the reader. A tale full of emotion and magic." — Roshani Chokshi, New York Times bestselling author of The Gilded Wolves
“With memorable characters and a lush, magnificent world, Gray's debut is an action-packed adventure that will tug at the heartstrings... Essential. — School Library Journal
