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Publication
Description
Families of all kinds will appreciate this simple tale of love and longing, motherhood and magic. In a small village in West Africa, a young girl explains the special way she was born. Her mother had difficulty getting pregnant, so she seeks help in the form of a doll which she treats like a human baby, carrying it on her back and covering it with kisses. Months go by and finally the woman's belly begins to grow! This beautiful story explores the Akua-Ba fertility figures of the Akan people of Ghana, while also depicting the deep love a mother has for her children. Élodie Nouhen's subtle, gorgeous illustrations combine collage and prints that are reminiscent of traditional African art, while remaining uniquely contemporary. Each spread communicates the look and feel of West Africa--the blazing yellow of the sun, the deep blue of the sky, the richly patterned textiles, and vibrant flora and fauna. Adrienne Yabouza's text echoes the rhythms of life in her homeland--the Central African Republic. The book closes with a short introduction to African art and the importance of fertility statues in African cultures.… (more)
Local notes
Grades 1-3 - In this story inspired by traditional Ashanti fertility statues, a little girl tells readers about her mother's Akua’ba, which they call Dolly. Dolly is about a year older than the little girl, and a flashback explains why. Newlyweds Ama and Kwame remain childless as seasons pass and others have children. Everyone teases Ama about it, not realizing that she’s heartbroken—but her husband knows. Kwame suggests she get a doll from the carver, and Ama wears it on her back just like a baby . . . until her stomach grows round, and their dream comes true. Watercolors primarily in muted shades with bright pops of bold color tenderly show family life in an African village, while informative back matter discusses fertility dolls in a child-friendly way, relates the Ashanti legend that inspired the tale, and emphasizes Africa’s diversity of peoples and cultures.