Sankofa
A Culinary Story of Resilience and Belonging
Published on 3. October 2023
Book
Hardback
48 pages
978-0-593-38594-4 (ISBN)
Description
What if home was a place you've never been? For Kofi, a first-generation Ghanaian American boy, home is a country called Ghana. But it's a place he's never been. When tasked to bring a dish that best represents his family's culture to school for a potluck lunch, Kofi is torn. With the help of his Nanabarima (grandfather), Kofi learns the hardship and resilience his family has endured - and how food has always been an integral part their story and culture. Sankofa is a reminder that food can transport you to a place called home - even if you've never been.
Reviews / Votes
"Based on his own experiences as a first-generation Ghanaian American growing up in New York City, chef and author Adjepong's debut picture book beautifully captures Kofi's complicated feelings of in-betweenness, seeing himself as not quite American enough and not quite Ghanaian enough, even as he tries to connect to his family's history. A recipe for jollof rice, the dish Kofi proudly shares with his class, is included at the end." -BCCB, starred review"Adjepong has crafted a delectable story that blends food history and Ghanaian culture. A celebration of food and culture that reminds youngsters to look back as they move forward." -Kirkus Reviews
"Sankofa effectively introduces readers to food as a way of connecting people." -Booklist
"The heartwarming intergenerational bonding while they prepare the dish underscores the book's theme of connecting generations through traditional meals. The choice of an atmospheric folk art style for illustrations adds to the cozy ambiance, evoking a sense of utility and community. The visuals complement the narrative beautifully, effectively conveying the message of unity and togetherness." -School Library Journal
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
United States
Publishing group
Penguin Putnam Inc
Target group
Children/juvenile
US School Grade: From Preschool to Third Grade, Interest Age: From 4 to 8 years
Product notice
sewn/stitched
Cloth over boards
Dimensions
Height: 283 mm
Width: 233 mm
Thickness: 11 mm
Weight
450 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-593-38594-4 (9780593385944)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions
E-Book
10/2023
Penguin Workshop
€12.49
Available for download
Persons
Eric Adjepong (he/him) is the host of a series of live, virtual cooking classes that explore West African cuisine and food of the African diaspora. Adjepong rose to prominence as a finalist on season 16 of Bravo's Top Chef and as a contestant on season 17 of Top Chef All-Stars. As a first-generation Ghanaian American born and raised in New York City, Adjepong sources the flavors and influences in his cooking from many of the West African dishes he grew up eating.
Lala Watkins (she/her) is an illustrator, author, and self-proclaimed "good vibes connoisseur." A graduate of the Ringling College of Art & Design, Watkins has worked on numerous children's books and comics.
Lala Watkins (she/her) is an illustrator, author, and self-proclaimed "good vibes connoisseur." A graduate of the Ringling College of Art & Design, Watkins has worked on numerous children's books and comics.