Africa Amazing Africa

Name: William Joseph
Price range: $

by Atinuke, illustrated by Mouni Feddag

Interest age: 6 to 11
Reading age: 7+

Published by Walker Books, 2019

Around the world
Picture books
Travel

About this book

This beautifully produced atlas of Africa is a fantastic book for any classroom or home library. The text is kept young, accessible and inviting, with the author telling us what an adventure it’s been to create this delightful volume.

Stunning maps show the layout and placement African countries, highlighting an interesting variety of animals, buildings or natural features. The overview text gives a brief outline of Africa as a whole, naming the countries and showcasing some of the languages. Each section of the book then zooms in on the countries individually, adding rich, interesting details to inspire interest, rather than overwhelm with information. From Ghana’s giant markets to the skyscrapers of Sierra Leone, the boy drummers of Burundi and the oases of Mauritania, flicking through this happy book is like working through a box of delicious sweets.

The author’s note also points out that this book can only give an idea of what Africa is like right now, since new countries are being created and old traditions are being swallowed up, which is an interesting concept for younger readers; modern global politics means that shifting country boundaries are not just something for history. Each African country is unique and Atinuke’s infectious enthusiasm really shines through her writing.

A perfect book for young children interested in their cultural heritage or for those with a passion for travel and geography, this would also make a gorgeous gift for anyone interested in Africa.

About the author

Atinuke was born and grew up in Nigeria. She writes children's books because she loves the vibrancy, joy, wisdom and humour of her own African culture, which she includes a lot of in her work. She shares with children all over the world how modern life is in Africa, how amazing African traditions and cultures are, and how our human joys and sorrows are the same.

She also tells traditional African stories which make her international audiences laugh and cry. Her books have been published in the UK, USA, France and Japan and have won lots of awards. Atinuke spends most of her time at home quietly dreaming up stories, but she sometimes visits schools and book festivals — she loves to meet her readers! Atinuke lives in Pembrokeshire.

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