Today is a very somber anniversary: 20 years ago the genocide in Rwanda began. As hard as it is to remember, it's equally important, imperative, that we do remember. So I wondered if there were children's books from or set in Rwanda and decided to try the International Children's Digital Library, which is an amazing resource of children's books from around the world that are not available in print in the United States. There are four books from Rwanda, three of which are in the language Kinyarwanda. One, Tamari of Tamarinda, is in English, written by Ignatius C. Musonza, illustrated by Kabalisa Théogène (Editions Bakame, 2005). Tamari is a beautiful but lazy girl who lives on the colourful island of Tamarinda. She spends her days singing to the bees and butterflies. When an ugly grey wizard takes the islands colors and Tamari too, she must learn to take care of herself. Her friends the bees help her return home with the island's colors. A tale of finding oneself, discovering strength, and the return of beauty to a place seems appropriate.
Mira in the Present Tense, which I reviewed last week, includes a character from Rwanda, a boy who was orphaned and adopted by English aid workers. When Mira's parents learn of her research into Rwanda, they are concerned -- at what age do you inform children of such nightmares? And how do you do so? I don't have firm answers here, just questions.
If you know of other books by authors from Rwanda or set in the country, please let me know!
Mira in the Present Tense, which I reviewed last week, includes a character from Rwanda, a boy who was orphaned and adopted by English aid workers. When Mira's parents learn of her research into Rwanda, they are concerned -- at what age do you inform children of such nightmares? And how do you do so? I don't have firm answers here, just questions.
If you know of other books by authors from Rwanda or set in the country, please let me know!