Stories from Africa

June 4, 2007

Ubucuti Bw'imbeba N'inzovu (The Friendship Between Mouse and Elephant)

Written by John Kilaka; Kinyarwanda.
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With brightly colored illustrations, this story from Rwanda reminds us of the importance of sharing with others and valuing the contributions we each make in this world.

Shukrani Za Simba (Lion Says Thanks)

Written by B.S. Mang'anda; Swahili.
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The soft, sepia-colored illustrations in this unpredictable Tanzanian tale are surprisingly effective in capturing the characters' intense emotions.

Kibofu Cha Ajabu (The Magic Balloon)

Written by Ruth Wairimu Karani; Swahili.
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The beauty of the land is richly illustrated in this story about a young girl who flies out of the city on her magic balloon to befriend a variety of animals in the Kenyan countryside.

The Cape Town Book Fair (CTBF) in South Africa takes place this year from June 16 – 19. With the theme, "More than Black on White," the 2007 CTBF celebrates the diversity of the African continent. The 2007 CTBF's Children's Programme will have an emphasis on reading for pleasure and stimulating a love of books. According to the CTBF, "Great stories inspire all children and give them tools in an increasingly complex world." The ICDL agrees! This month, the ICDL is pleased to highlight stories from several African countries.