This is the story of a little Nigerian boy who doesn’t know what job to do when he grows up. His father teaches in a school, his mother owns a bakery, Auntie Ngo is a doctor, and another aunt makes pots. But his grandfather seems wiser and more interesting than any of them — for he is a traditional healer who uses the ancient knowledge of plants and trees to help his people. Award-winning author Ifeoma Onyefulu presents a vibrant view of African village life in this book for children of all cultures.
Instructive and Respectful of Traditional Knowledge I must disagree entirely with the first reviewer. This is a lovely, informative, and thought-provoking book.
The young Nigerian boy who narrates this book describes the impressive work that each of his closest adult relatives do. His grandmother is a seamstress; his father a school teacher; his mother the owner of a bakery; his uncles a woodworker, a blacksmith, and a lawyer; and his aunties a potter and a doctor. But most impressive of all, he thinks, is his grandfather, who heals people using his extensive knowledge of plants. Though his work appears "magical" to his grandson, grandfather makes it clear the bounties of nature and the rich knowledge of the forbearers are the real sources of his healing powers. This book displays a level of respect for indigenous knowledge systems that is rare among children's books.
Translate: My granddad's a WITCH DOCTOR This title euphemizes what is common knowledge to every African. The true and original name in English of the profession of animistic witchcraft is, for all obvious and appropriate reasons, 'witch doctor.' If you adhere to scriptural eschewance of all occultic practices as abomination to God, you will want to reconsider choosing this book. There are any number of wonderful books and other media for teaching your child the beauty of African culture. I have done in-depth studies with each of my children of the customs, art, music, language, clothing, folklore, and landscape of Africa-- including its religions at an appropriate age-- without promoting witchcraft or throwing open the door to such influences.
Anything Goes Trivia
Trevor
Megaton Man
