This book is about a leopard who is very proud and his name is Osebo. I liked it when Achicheri (the tortoise) trapped Osebo in his drum. Then Achicheri took the drum with the leopard inside to the sky god, Nyame. A python, an elephant and a monkey all tried to get Osebo's drum, but they failed. But Achicheri got the drum by tricking Osebo. It was a great read.

This book charmed our family for quite a long time. It is a retelling of an African tale which traces the beginings of the mosquito's buzz. The disasterous effects involve many different animals with many different reactions. This tale is sure to amuse and delight any and all readers.

This book is definitely a thriller, but not the kind most people will anticipate. It keeps the reader turning pages until the very end, but this isn't one of my favorite books. I'm not familiar with other books by William Badke, but I would recommend this book.

I am a storyteller and drummer, so this story is very appealing to me. It combines both. The illustrations are beautiful. This Nigerian tale is simple. It also invokes hope, that there can be a place for the artists in the world. The story is visual and can be "heard," as well, which is perfect considering it is the story of a musician. A person reading this to children could have great fun with it. It almost has the air of a Biblical story. Enjoy it! I currently have a borrowed copy. I am ordering my own for my personal collection!

When I ordered this item I had no idea what its style would be: would it be geared toward academics or general readers? The answer is, young general readers. The text is actually quite simplified, like an extended encyclopedia entry, but for all that it goes into sufficient detail. The history of this people is one of the book's most important elements: did you know that the ancient Empire of Ghana was founded by the Soninke? (This surprised me, since they live nowhere near the modern state of Ghana.) Along with historical background, you'll find information on Soninke culture, language and economic activites.

I'd say it's written at the junior high school level. It contains plenty of splendid photos and maps, and is certainly suitable for school libraries but would be of limited interest to adult readers.

Miller's book provides the reader with an extremely well thought-out interdisciplinary journey through the issues current in Francophone African literature. His careful analysis is fully supported through insistent references to a myriad of other works, and a conscientious and sensitive approach to discussing African literaure. I highly recomend it to anyone with interests in African discourse, literary theory, culture studies, anthropology, and textual practice.

Rene Caillie was one of the great explorers and adventurers in European history. His journey to Timbuctoo is awe inspiring. It is a grand testament to the human spirit that he was able to overcome so many obstacles to achieve this staggering dream. This uneducated, unfinanced young man attained a goal unfullfilled by many a great explorer. Galbraith Welch does a fine job of retelling this amazing tale. I would have to state that I found some of her narrative condescending to the African natives and customs that Caillie encountered in his rounds. There is a trace of a sneer which was probably lacking in Caillie himself. This is a minor criticism, however. Welch was also a product of her own era. It does not diminish from a spectacular achievement. I was inspired by this story. The human spirit once more displays its glory. Obstacles can be overcome and goals can be attained. Overall, this is a valuable book to read.

I picked up this book at a thrift shop - my usual venue for book purchases - solely due to the title. I knew nothing of Mary Kingsley prior to reading this absorbing account of her life. Her childhood and early adult life would give no clue to the extraordinary adventures she would have in Africa, culminating in her death while serving as a nurse with the British Army in South Africa. Rudyard Kipling said of her that she was "the bravest person I know" - I hope I have the quote correct. I cannot check as I gave my copy of the book to a friend who bears a striking resemblance to Miss Kingsley.

Although limited to Ghanian culture, this interactive publication serves as a useful resource tool and springboard in discovering the significance of symbols often found in African objects and textiles. Several Adinkra stencils symbolic of specific proverbs, social concepts and/or ideas are contained therein; they can be effectively used in craft-related stenciling and art activities. (I used STENCILS: WEST AFRICA: GHANA for a special Social Studies/Language Arts unit I developed for my first graders and for a Grades 2-5 African Heritage After School Program. The use of these materials and information contained therein has proven educational, enlightening, and stimulating for my young learners!) West Africa: Ghana (Ancient and Living Cutlures) is worth the purchase for educators, parents, and/or those interested learning about other cultures!