Our Story Starts in Africa
What’s inside...
Award-winning writer Patrice Lawrence's picture book Our Story Starts in Africa is a sensitively told story of Black history from its very ancient origins to its dynamic future, vibrantly illustrated by Jeanetta Gonzales. The story follows Paloma as she visits her family in Trinidad and learns about her ancestral roots through her Tante Janet's tales of warrior queens, talking drums, and treasures. The book explores the journey of her family from Africa to the Caribbean, through colonization and enslavement, to the rise of a diverse and successful community. It challenges reductive narratives often found in children's books about Africa and offers a rich, personal connection to Black history.
Discussion points
What do you think daily life is like for children living in Africa compared to here?
How do you think the main character feels when they experience new adventures?
What did you learn about African culture and traditions from this story?
Why is it important to learn about and respect different cultures?
What would you do if you were in the main character’s shoes in one of their adventures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts by asking open-ended questions and listening actively to their responses. Share your own thoughts to stimulate deeper conversation. Connect the story to personal experiences or current events to make the discussion more relatable and impactful. Praise your child for their insights and encourage them to ask questions about the book as well.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of cultural diversity
Explanation: The narrative explores various cultures and traditions of Africa, illustrating a rich tapestry of life.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to respect and value diverse cultures in their community and worldwide, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and heritage
Explanation: The story emphasizes the roles of family members and the significance of heritage, passing down through generations.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to connect with their own heritage and learn more about their family history, deepening personal identity.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Characters in the story face challenges and triumphs, which helps in nurturing empathy as readers see the world from various perspectives.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop stronger social skills, enabling them to understand and share feelings with others around them.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The book showcases how characters overcome obstacles, providing a model of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by developing perseverance and a positive attitude when facing their own challenges.
Example Lesson: Importance of storytelling
Explanation: Through its narrative weaving, the book highlights how stories can connect people and preserve cultures.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of sharing their own stories and listening to others, enhancing communication skills and personal connections.