Awards

• Blackwell's Children's Book of the Month
• Spark Book Awards 2024
• East Sussex Children's Book Awards 2025

Organisations

• Society of Authors
• Black Writers Guild
• Coram Beanstalk Charity

Details

About the Author

My journey began with a focus on post-colonial literature from West Africa during my degree at the University of Oxford. After graduating, I felt a deep calling to write novels that would resonate with children navigating both British and African identities, helping them feel proud of their heritage.

Thirteen-year-old Koku’s life takes a thrilling turn when a trip to the British Museum goes horribly wrong, and he accidentally unleashes a menacing demon. As punishment, his uncle sends him off to Olori, a mystical West African land he barely remembers, for the summer. Koku, already feeling like an outsider due to his sickle cell anemia, is far from thrilled about being whisked away.

But Olori is no ordinary place. Instead of a boring summer, Koku is thrust into an epic showdown between powerful magical tribes determined to obliterate the night and mystical creatures that depend on it. As the last descendant of the secretive Olókun tribe, which controls the darkness, Koku discovers he’s the only one who can prevent this ancient conflict from plunging the world into chaos. Can he harness his hidden powers and save both worlds before it’s too late?

About Kòkú Àkànbí and The King of Lost Souls

Demon dads. Flaming warriors. Ghostly powers. Welcome back to Olori...

In the electrifying sequel to Kòkú Àkànbí and the Heart of Midnight, Koku’s new ghostly abilities are causing chaos, landing him in detention and deep trouble. Just when he thought things couldn't get worse, he’s thrust into a perilous quest to find the three most powerful objects in the world. But that’s not all—Koku faces the biggest decision of his life as he holds the fate of Olori in his hands.

As the new Araba imposes her ruthless blood magic on the people of Olori, Sango Chief Okenla enlists Koku and his friends to topple the oppressive regime. Koku is thrilled to join forces with the legendary warrior until he discovers he’ll have to deal with age-old prejudices and the spoiled firebreather Jaiye Jegede, who’s more interested in charming mermaids than leading a revolution.

With his powers growing darker and more uncontrollable, Koku must navigate a treacherous path with his old mentor gone and guidance coming from his Demon dad—who’s not exactly keen on sparing humanity. As allies turn against him and old enemies resurface, whispers of his long-lost tribe, the Olókun, hint at lurking dangers.

In this spellbinding adventure set in a world inspired by West African mythology, Koku and his super-powered friends must rise to the challenge and save Olori before time runs out. Perfect for fans of Marvel and Percy Jackson, this is one fantasy adventure you don’t want to miss!

Talks

Maria's event is electrifying! All children were so engaged that they were desperate to answer questions and find out more about the book. Maria's event is beautifully pitched at a key stage 2 audience. We would not hesitate to welcome her back to our libraries, any day!" Erin Clariborne, Librarian at Stratford Library

Join author Maria Motúnráyọ̀ Adébísí for an exciting and immersive event!

Dive into the world of Kòkú Àkànbí and the Heart of Midnight, Maria Motúnráyọ̀’ thrilling debut novel filled with action, magic, and vibrant comic book-style illustrations. This hour-long, glow-in-the-dark interactive event promises an unforgettable experience.

Maria will read an exciting extract from her book and share the inspiration behind her captivating tale of ancient tribes, daring demons, and vengeful mermaids. She’ll explore themes like West African mythology, identity, and the challenges faced by her main character, Koku, who lives with sickle cell anemia. Discover how Maria collaborated with illustrators Simone Douglas and Flavio B. Silva to bring her story to life with stunning visuals.

The event will also feature a Q&A session, giving students (and teachers!) a chance to ask Maria their burning questions.

Don’t miss this magical journey into the world of Kòkú Àkànbí!

Rates

I charge £250 per hour for in person talks (plus travel expenses/hotel stay if needed). I am happy to travel UK wide.

My rates are £80 per hour for virtual sessions.

Reviews

"Sharp, Thrilling, Witty"- The Guardian

"Epic storytelling with a sharp wit. I love Kòkú!" ― Louie Stowell, author of Loki: A Bad God's Guide to Being Good

"Adebisi's innovative debut mixes Yoruba, West African Pidgin and Jamaican Patois without missing a beat" - The Sunday Observer

"Maria Adebisi's workshop at Kingsford Community School was a hit! The students were engaged throughout the 90-minute session, which included a fun quiz and the opportunity to ask Maria questions about her writing process. They were buzzing with excitement to read her book Koku Akanbi and the Heart of Midnight afterwards. Maria's visit truly left a lasting impact on the students and we look forward to welcoming her back to Kingsford very soon." Head of English - Kingsford Community School

Videos

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