In the interview Abouet talks about having been raised in Abidjan until the age of 12, when she and her brother were sent to study in France. The illustrations are expressive, and I love the “Ivorian Bonus” at the end of the book-in this case not only is there (1) a glossary of terms (2) a recipe for “Chicken Kedjenou” (3) illustrated instructions for how to wrap and carry a baby on your back and (4) an explanation of how a traditional Ivorian proverb is practiced in every day life but this book also includes (5) a reprint of an interview by Angela Ajayi with Marguerite Abouet. In this the 2nd installment of a series of graphic novels written by Marguerite Abouet and illustrated by Clement Ouberie, the plot from the 1st book thickens and this one ends with a great soap-operatic cliff-hanger! The Aya stories take place in Africa’s Ivory Coast during the 1970s. The young women aren’t the only residents of Yopougon involved in the excitement, however Aya’s father is caught in the midst of his own trysts and his employer’s declining Solibra beer sales, and Adjoua’s brother finds his share of the city’s nightlife. The new mother Adjoua has her friends to help with the baby, perhaps employing Aya a bit too frequently, while a new romance leaves Bintou with little time for her friends, let alone their responsibilities. The original cast of characters is back in full force, with a case of questionable paternity fanning the flames of activity in the community. Oubrerie’s artwork synchronizes perfectly with Abouet’s funny and lighthearted writing, which together create a spirited atmosphere and scenarios that, however unique to the bygone setting, remain entirely contemporary in their effect. This continuation of the dynamic story by Marguerite Abouet and Clément Oubrerie returns to Africa’s Ivory Coast in the late 1970s, where life in Yop City is as dramatic as ever. The original Drawn & Quarterly volume of Aya debuted last year to much critical acclaim, receiving a Quill Award nomination and praise for its accessibility and for the rare portrait of a warm, vibrant Africa it presents. “ wittily delves into both the political and the pop during an enchanted era when anything seemed possible.” - Vibe Vixen
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