Ann Grifalconi (1929–2020)

I would give this story a 3/5. This story is a picture book, and multicultural text meant for students from grades K-2. The reason I gave it a 3 was because I loved the illustrations and the setting, however I did not enjoy this story as much as the others I have read due to the writing and language the author uses. In some parts it was very unclear what they were talking about since it was such a different culture. I had to go back and read it over a couple times to make sure I read the passage correctly. On the other hand, I really enjoyed the illustrations and colored pencil drawings that enhanced the tale of the volcanic eruption, while still keeping with the peaceful, family feel of the book. This book explains in many different ways how the culture in Cameroon is much different than the culture here in the USA. For example, after the volcano the men and women were separated in different tents, and have much different and very important roles to keep the village alive. Your life in the community is based on gender and age.… (mais)