Mansa Musa: The Lion of Mali - Hardcover

Burns, Khephra

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0152003754 ISBN 13: 9780152003753

Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers, 2001

Synopsis

When an evening celebration in his village is disrupted by the cries of slave raiders, young Kankan Musa runs to find his spear, but in a moment he is taken. Suddenly, the world he has known is gone. Is he to be a slave? Or will destiny carry this son of a proud people to a different future?
Caldecott Medalists Leo and Diane Dillon capture the grandeur of Africa's ancient empires, lands, and people in stunning paintings as this richly imagined tale of the boyhood of Mansa Musa, one of Mali's most celebrated kings, carries us across the continent on a triumphant journey of self-discovery.

About this title

Review:

When a stranger in a sky blue robe appears in the 14th century Malian village of Kaba Kangaba, young Kankan Musa is spellbound. He joins the other villagers in an evening of stories and celebration... only to have the spell broken by the arrival of slave raiders who seize Kankan and carry him off to the desert. Here begins our hero's story: is he destined to be a slave for life? Or will this be the launch of a journey to self-discovery and maturity?

Khephra Burns's exquisitely told account of one of the greatest kings of Mali is based solidly in fact, although the details of his boyhood are imagined. Partnered with the rich, breathtaking illustrations by two-time Caldecott Medalists, Leo and Diane Dillon (Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People's Ears and Ashanti to Zulu), this beautifully formatted picture book will capture the imagination and fascination of children everywhere. (Ages 8 and older) --Emilie Coulter

About the Author:

KHEPHRA BURNS has written several acclaimed books, as well as works for public and commercial television, for magazines, and for the stage. He lives in New York City.

Two-time Caldecott Medalists LEO & DIANE DILLON together have illustratred more than forty books. Their many honors include four New York Times Book Review Best Illustrated Awards, a Coretta Scott King Award, and a Boston Globe–Horn Book Award. The Dillons live in New York City.

About this edition

• Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers
• Publication date: 2001
• ISBN 10: 0152003754
• ISBN 13: 9780152003753
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 56
• Illustrator: Dillon Leo & Diane