She didn’t ask for permission—she trained to become a warrior.
Discover the empowering fantasy series about a girl who dares to challenge tradition, unlock lost magic, and become the warrior she knows she was meant to be.
Perfect for brave girls ages 8–12 who dream big, stand strong, and ask, “Why not me?”
What started as a writing exercise turned into something bigger—my very first book series.
I was working on a different story set in the Land of Ethonia. It followed a group of friends on a quest, but something wasn’t clicking. To get unstuck, I started writing character journals… and that’s when Anyia appeared.
She was bold. Stubborn. Dreaming of a future no one believed in.
A girl born into tradition—yet determined to break it.
From the moment she arrived on the page, I knew this was her story. And her journey became the heart of the series: a story about defiance, courage, and believing in yourself—even when the world tells you no.
Start Her Journey
Perfect for readers who love Black girl magic, diverse heroes, and stories of courage, identity, and self-discovery.
This book is beautiful to read, and you will have the time of your life sharing it with your child. It's a good story of fighting the good fight and winning, even if you are small and young—never give up. The pictures and colors are brilliant!" ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ Star Review VaLinda
It is for the young to learn the value of tradition and the not so young to learn the value of change. Jacquitta A. McManus has written a lovely book, complete with a powerful message. Anyia is bold and brave, and her journey is sure to spark conversations among young readers." ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ Stars by Anne Boling/Readers' Favorite
In Anyia - Dream of a Warrior, Anyia dreams of becoming a warrior, forbidden in her culture. Her father, the chief, wants her to follow traditions, but Anyia defies him to find Amoonda, the only female warrior—the one who would understand.
The sketches below by Toujour Byrd beautifully capture the essence of Anyia’s world—Anyia, Amoonda, Nakara, and the Treelins.
Working with Toujour was a wonderful experience. She brought Ethonia to life through her expressive character designs—especially the female characters, who she drew with strength, warmth, and personality.
Character Bios
Anyia A bold girl from Nagoran Village who dreams of becoming a warrior—even when her people say she can’t.
Amoonda The only female warrior Anyia has ever heard of. If anyone understands what she’s fighting for, it’s her.
Nakara Anyia’s mother. Gentle, wise, and grounded—but stronger than she first appears.
The Treelins Quiet forest dwellers with a deep connection to the land—and a history woven into Ethonia’s forgotten magic.
Just as I had a great experience working with Toujour, I also had an equally wonderful time collaborating with Maurice Novembre.
We’ve worked together on several projects, and I was excited to have him bring his creative flair to the male characters in the Anyia series. Maurice added depth, personality, and subtle strength to each one—further rounding out the world of Ethonia through his thoughtful designs.
Why I Wrote Anyia I started writing because I was tired of not seeing Black girls at the center of fantasy and adventure books. I wanted stories where girls like my daughter, and girls like me, could see themselves as bold, magical heroes.
Anyia was born from that need. She’s strong, curious, determined, and proudly Black.
Even though my daughter outgrew storytime before the first book was finished, I never stopped writing for her. This series is for every girl who deserves to see herself leading the adventure.
