Noni - Vocabulary Booster

The Noni series is Smas’ longest work, consisting of 14 books. It was published by Gramedia from 1983 to 1987.

Noni tells the story of a tomboyish girl from Krapyak village who is still in elementary school. She has a short haircut, inspired by Lady Diana’s style, two older brothers, a kind mother, and a father who often gets angry with her behavior.

In addition to her immediate family, she also has another family, which is the dentist lady whose house is not far from Noni’s. Noni’s real name is Prita, but she doesn’t like to be called by her real name. She thinks Noni sounds cooler.

Her adventure begins when her friend Eli, who lives with his foster parents, believes that his long-lost sibling is still alive. This belief is based on a Javanese song that only Eli and his sibling know. This issue became the title of the first book: “Nyanyian Ibu” (Mother’s Song).

As if searching for her friend’s sibling isn’t enough, Noni accidentally helps a legendary criminal on the run from the police named Godek. Everyone knows Godek, he’s known as a terrifying criminal, but Noni sees him as the kindest person she’s ever known.

Noni’s adventures and friendship with Godek form the main storyline of the Noni series, uncovering various criminal cases around Semarang City. What’s fascinating is the detailed sequence of events that feel so real, combined with the depiction of the story’s locations. Even the position of the streets where Noni lives has remained unchanged until now. It’s mentioned that Noni’s house is located at the corner of Subali Makam Street and Subali IX Street, Krapyak Semarang.

The criminal cases that Noni and Godek uncover are not to be taken lightly, from terrorist stories to diamond smuggling, and they are all narrated excellently. Their adventures are supported by Noni’s friends in Krapyak Village.

Another interesting aspect of Noni’s story, besides her crime-solving adventures, is her independence. She diligently helps the dentist lady to earn extra pocket money. Noni is brave and more independent than her older brothers. Additionally, Godek’s disguising skills in investigating the movements of criminals add to the intrigue.

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