Shadow of the Leopard
A powerful, haunting story set in Mozambique, by a world-renowned author.
Readers met Sofia previously in SECRETS IN THE FIRE, when, at the age of 9, she lost her legs in a land mine explosion.
Now Sofia is almost 20 and pregnant with her third child. Armando, the father of her children, travels to the city to work, coming home on weekends. One Saturday Armando is very late, and as he stands in the shadows beyond the firelight, Sofia knows he is hiding something from her. She makes her way to town to find out what he is doing …
and is devastated to discover that he is involved with another woman. Sofia ends their relationship, but suffers terribly in the face of Armando’s rage. In a heart-rending conclusion Armando’s life unravels, and Sofia must return to her village to raise her children without him.
SHADOW OF THE LEOPARD is an unforgettable story of love and betrayal, told with clear-eyed compassion and humane and strongly atmospheric insight.
Reviews:
“... (a) haunting, contemporary story of violence and courage ... the drama of betrayal is riveting and will draw many of Mankell’s high-school and adult fans.”
—Booklist, starred review, 12/09
“This novel moves along quickly to a realistic yet hopeful ending.”
—School Library Journal, 12/09
“ Readers will remember the indomitable Sofia ... long after they close the book.”
—Kirkus, 11/09
“... will open teens’ minds and hearts to one of Africa’s most dire concerns today and linger long after the book is finished.”
—ForeWord Magazine, 11/09
“Sophia is an intelligent, resourceful and determined person ...”
—Resouce Links, 12/09