Magic
Zélie is a maji, a person with magical powers, which makes her a person of interest to non-magical people. Magic is not something of awe and is not easily accepted into the world of Orïsha. In the past, those with magical abilities were feared and persecuted, which leaves Zélie in a difficult position throughout the events of the book.
Power
Queen Nehanda, the main antagonist of the novel, is the power-hungry ruler of Orïsha. Such is her obsession for power, she would rather kill her own daughter Amari, Zélie’s ally. Though Nehanda despises use of magic and hunts those that wield such powers, she too abuses her own magical abilities to keep people subjugated under her tyrannical rule.
Friendship
Friendship is at the core of the book, with Zélie relying on friends such as Amari and Mama Agba to help her in her journey. Without their guidance and support, Zélie would not have been able to restore the magic in Orïsha. Indeed, such is the depth of their friendship, that Mama Agba sacrifices herself so that Zélie can complete her mission.
