Status
Available
Genres
Collection
Publication
Atheneum/Anne Schwartz Books (1999), Edition: 1st, 32 pages
Description
An African folktale in which the son of the chief must make his way in the world with only a sackful of kola nuts and the help of some creatures that he has treated with kindness.
User reviews
LibraryThing member neilliej
As the reader I really felt for the young Koi as he learned that he was only receiving the kola tree from his father's fortune. However, when he decides to take a journey and travel the area, you get a sense of hope for him. Before he leaves, he collects the kola nuts from the tree. Along his
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journey, the nuts help him to help others. In return, those who he helped return the favors when they’re most needed. Because of Koi’s good deeds, he was rewarded profusely. This concept is wonderful for children to pick up on. What I liked most about the story was that Koi helped others simply from the goodness of heart-not from greed. This is something we all should try to do! Show Less
LibraryThing member hgold
I find it very interesting that the idea of three events/things/tasks comes up so repeatedly in folk tales, even across cultural boundaries, such as in this book, as well as Fiona's Luck. I'm very hesitant to share stories that are so patriarchal with students, but many folktales are very
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patriarchal, and still have a value in the classroom. This book had beautiful paints, which I loved as well. Show Less
LibraryThing member anacryan
A Liberian tale that teaches the importance of doing good for others. Interesting and colorful illustrations enhance this story about a boy who learns firsthand what is truly worthy of reward and how sharing what you have can be much better than keeping it all to yourself. For 1st - 4th graders.
LibraryThing member AbigailAdams26
When Koi loses out on his share of his father's inheritance, he sets out into the world with only a bag of kola nuts to his name. His generosity towards a snake, some ants, and a crocodile during the course of his journey is rewarded when he comes to the village of Chief Fulikolli, and needs help
The tale of the hunter/wanderer who spares/helps three animals, and is in turn assisted in three "impossible" tasks is a widespread one, with many variants worldwide. This charming Liberian version of the story includes the almost ubiquitous sub-plot of the ants who sort out a field of grain, and emphasizes the rewards for generosity. Originally published as part of Aardema's 1960 collection, Tales from the Story Hat, Koi and the Kola Nuts presents an engaging story. With Joe Cepeda's bright illustrations - an excellent accompaniment to the tale - this book is sure to please enthusiasts young and old.
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completing the three tasks required to win his daughter's hand in marriage.The tale of the hunter/wanderer who spares/helps three animals, and is in turn assisted in three "impossible" tasks is a widespread one, with many variants worldwide. This charming Liberian version of the story includes the almost ubiquitous sub-plot of the ants who sort out a field of grain, and emphasizes the rewards for generosity. Originally published as part of Aardema's 1960 collection, Tales from the Story Hat, Koi and the Kola Nuts presents an engaging story. With Joe Cepeda's bright illustrations - an excellent accompaniment to the tale - this book is sure to please enthusiasts young and old.
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Awards
Black-Eyed Susan Book Award (Nominee — Picture Books — 2002)
Language
Original language
English
Physical description
10.84 inches
ISBN
0689817606 / 9780689817601