**From the Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award winning author Kwame Alexander, comes the first book in a searing, breathtaking trilogy that tells the story of a boy, a village, and the epic odyssey of an African family.** In his village in Upper Kwanta, 11-year-old Kofi loves his family, playing *oware* with his grandfather and swimming in the river Offin. He’s warned though, to never go to the river at night. His brother tells him ” *There are things about the water you do not know*. “ *Like what?* Kofi asks. “ *The beasts*.” His brother answers. One fateful night, the unthinkable happens and in a flash, Kofi’s world turns upside down. Kofi soon ends up in a fight for his life and what happens next will send him on a harrowing journey across land and sea, and away from everything he loves. This spellbinding novel by the author of *The Crossover* and *Booked* will take you on an unforgettable adventure that will open your eyes and break your heart. *The Door of No Return* is an excellent choice for independent reading, sharing in the classroom, book groups, and homeschooling. **An instant #1 *New York Times* Bestseller!**