Kai: A Mission for Her Village- Africa, 1440 (Girlhood Journeys Collection, Book 1) - Softcover

Dawn C. Gill Thomas

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0689809867 ISBN 13: 9780689809866

Publisher: Aladdin Paperbacks, 1996

Synopsis

In 1440, when a famine threatens the Yoruba village of Ife, the king chooses Kai and her sister to seek help from the Yoruba in the North, and they set out on foot through dense forest and golden savanna on an adventure that teaches them a great deal about their country and themselves. Simultaneous.

About this title

From School Library Journal:

Grade 3-6. Kai, a spirited and intelligent young girl, longs to become an artisan, but in 15th-century Yorubaland women are banned from such work. Risking punishment, Kai secretly watches craftsmen in a secluded courtyard and closely examines their fabulous brass sculptures, even smuggling some discarded pieces for further inspection. Only her closest friend, Aisha, knows of her secret wish. Life becomes even more complicated for Kai when her village is threatened by starvation after the yam crop is destroyed by blight. Inexplicably, the chief sends Kai and her beautiful, but lazy sister, Jamila, to deliver a message for help to a distant tribe. The two use their wits to survive a multitude of dangers before they can reach the tribe that can save their people. Kai's hope for the future is rekindled when she discovers that the women of this far-off village are skilled in casting brass sculptures. Well written, with a fast-moving plot, this story dramatizes the strength of African women, and the restricted but important roles they played in the everyday life of ancient Africa, a tradition that continues to this day. Attractive full-page, full-color paintings appear throughout, as do smaller illustrations in designs that enhance the pages. This tale will exhilarate and inspire young readers searching for realistic adventures. (Note: a full-page, full-color ad for dolls that correspond with titles in this series appears on the last page.)?Gebregeorgis Yohannes, San Francisco Public Library, CA
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: Aladdin Paperbacks
• Publication date: 1996
• ISBN 10: 0689809867
• ISBN 13: 9780689809866
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 71
• Illustrator: Vanessa Holley