The Spirits of Umudike

The novel opens with a creation myth of the world, centered around the spirits (alusi) who govern the elements, the land, and human destiny. The most powerful spirit, Chukwu, crafts the kingdoms, giving life to the people and a direct connection to the spiritual realms. A prophecy is uttered by an ancient oracle: "In the times of great darkness, a child born of soil will rise to restore the balance between gods and men."