Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death.

Black Star is the second book in The Door of No Return trilogy. In The Door of No Return, 11-year-old protagonist Kofi grows up in Upper Kwanta, West Africa, in 1860. His tribe defends the Offin River, which provides gold, from Lower Kwanta and foreign invaders known as “wonderfuls” (white men). Kofi spends his days swimming, doing chores, and attending school, where his teacher, Mr. Goodluck Phillip, imposes British culture and language on their native traditions.

Kofi has a crush on his childhood friend, Ama, who defends him when his cousin teases him. Kofi is very close with his grandfather Nana Mosi, who tells him cultural stories, both nonfictional and mythical. He gives Kofi many “riddles” of advice and wisdom, acting as a source of insight and encouragement.

After a confrontation with his cousin, Kofi accepts a swimming challenge to settle their differences. His best friend, Ebo, helps him train for the competition. He practices for the race while the tribe celebrates the King’s Festival, marking a treaty between Upper and Lower Kwanta. At the festival, Kofi’s older brother, Kwasi, competes in wrestling and accidentally kills Prince Yaw.