It was pointed out to us that even though we do not have monkeys here, there are monkeys in other islands, and also our folktales have monkeys in them, reflecting that aspect of our African heritage. A number of children volunteered to do impressions of Bolo, and they enjoyed their own creativity, as did we.
I think what moved me most, apart from the story itself, was that the writing and publication of this book meant so much to the author, and as he said, there are many other stories out there. He told of visiting a friend's school with some of his poems (the story is in verse, by the way) and how the children then would greet him by calling out, 'Here comes the poet!' I like that! You see, it means that our children can associate literature with their own people, and by extension, themselves. In times like these we cannot have enough of what speaks to the creative good in our people and our children. I applaud Tanya! I believe, from what she said, she might even be thinking of doing adult books as well. We all wish her well.
Photos taken from the Gleaner.
"He told of visiting a friend's school with some of his poems (the story is in verse, by the way) and how the children then would greet him by calling out, 'Here comes the poet!' I like that! You see, it means that our children can associate literature with their own people, and by extension, themselves."
ReplyDeleteYes, and that is why this is a great achievement. Thank you for alerting me to this. One Love, Geoffrey.
I'm glad that you saw the post, Geoffrey. Thank you for your comment. It's always encouraging when other persons understand the importance of what may seem like a small thing, but which can turn out to be significant in the development of our children and young people.
ReplyDeleteI was heartened by the review of this book in the Gleaner. "Bolo the Monkey" is such a delightful, easy to remember title. Congratulations to author, illustrator and publisher. Now to see if it is available and prominently displayed in the bookshops.
ReplyDeleteFinally got around to phoning MoBay bookshops for Bolo the Monkey. Neither Bryans nor the 2 Sangsters have it, nor had they heard of it. Bookland is now closed, which I'm sorry about, but not surprised. No bookshop of that kind has ever survived here, worse now with the economic down slide. I had a look round in Fontana, which has a fair-sized book section. Not there either, but they did have prominently displayed Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys and Enid Blyton books - presumably thought to be the best books for summer reading.
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