Gorilla Dawn

In the forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo, rebel soldiers have started an illegal coltan mine that will make them rich but has endangered the native habitat. Among those imprisoned in the soldiers’ camp are Imara, a girl with a disfiguring scar who is believed to have supernatural powers; Bobo, a 14-year-old intent on clearing the name of his father, a missing wildlife ranger; and Kitwana, a baby gorilla destined to be sold off and smuggled to the city. Using a narrative that shifts among all three characters, Lewis (Moon Bear) weaves an enrapturing tale of survival as the orphans hatch a plan to return the gorilla to his family while plotting their own escape. Imara, plagued by a demon who bleats in her ear, is resistant to helping the other children held hostage and used for slave labor, but she cannot avoid developing a maternal tenderness for Kitwana. By focusing on the plight of one sick animal, Lewis crystallizes broader issues of corruption, destruction, and rebirth while exploring deep psychological scars and traumatic events in a war-torn region. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 9–13. (Jan.)