Introducing a child to their family’s culture can help strengthen family bonds through shared experiences. It can also help bridge generational gaps as family members of all ages join together in an activity, such as cooking a traditional dish.
Children who learn about cultures besides their own gain additional benefits, such as an increase in empathy and other social skills.
A new picture book release, Amaka’s Visit to Grandma by Nnenna Ogbonna (Redemption Press), brings both the main character and the reader along through various scenes of everyday life in Nigeria.
Culture and family are intertwined since Amaka’s relationship with her grandma enables her to learn about the culture and language. The time they spend together and the activities they enjoy in one another’s company all serve to share this knowledge and cultural history with the younger generation.
Sensory details and Amaka’s contagious excitement bring this story to life. Amaka joins Grandma on visits to the market, school, and church to show readers that we can find evidence of our traditions and heritage in everyday events and not just during festivals and holidays.
By the end of her visit, she has gained new skills and knowledge and become familiar with the Igbo alphabet. The reader is given the chance to learn the Igbo language along with Amaka thanks to the translated lines included on each page and the glossary at the end of the book.
Inspired by her own family and experiences, the author says she hopes to “reach out to children across the globe, especially those of Igbo descent born in the diaspora …” With its authentic representation of the Igbo culture, this story provides readers of all ages with an enriching reading experience that also demonstrates the importance of family.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nnenna Ogbonna was raised in Nigeria by her parents, who were both teachers. She grew up learning two languages: Igbo and English. She now lives in the United States and works as a registered nurse at Duke University Hospital. The mother of three loves to read novels, cook, and travel to new places. Amaka’s Visit to Grandma is the author’s first picture book.
INSERT LINKS
For interviews, contact ninandy2023@gmail.com
Website: Amakakidsbook.com
Social Media Links
Facebook: Nnenna V Ogbonna
https://www.facebook.com/share/QfQZC8LnUAbEUcps/?mibextid=qi2Omg
Instagram: Nnenna Ogbonna (@nnennandy) • Instagram photos and videos
