I read this book weeks ago. Then, I read it again. Yesterday, I read it once more. I am one of those readers who is constantly mesmerized by the stories Kwame Alexander tells. This is a book that leaves an imprint on your heart, and many scenes from it in your memory. It will not be forgotten; I promise you that. My daughter would confirm that I am not a person who rereads book. Erin often rereads those she calls her favorites. Despite reading it three times, once so recently, I do not find it easy to find the right words to tell you about it.
It is a historical novel, written in verse and prose. It is both mesmerizing and exceptional. It is the story told of Asante villager Kofi Offin, an 11-year-old living with his family in their home village in Ghana. His days are spent with friends doing what young people do: going to school, working hard to learn English while he speaks Twi at home with his family, values, and history. He is with Ebo and Ama constantly, and is just beginning to feel an attraction to Ama. He recognizes that his friend Ebo feels much the same way.
After being bullied, he challenges his cousin to a river race. That river holds a special place in Kofi's life. Named after it and spending many happy hours there, Kofi doesn't pay much attention to village stories that tell of beasts that can be found thereat night. It isn't until he sees the snares placed near the shore meant to capture humans. Caught in one of the snares and sold into slavery, Kofi starts down the terrifying path that leads him to the door of no return.
Because Mr. Alexander's clear and moody writing gives voice to Kofi and all of the emotions as his story moves forward, readers have a real stake in what is happening and empathy for his plight. The story moves forward quickly because of the verse format, and the writer's ability to tell a story in words that speak volumes. Although lengthy (398 pages), I had little choice but to keep going. My lack of knowledge concerning Asante culture was greatly improved while living alongside Kofi, his family, and friends. I learned about entertainment, storytelling, language, food, and village and family life.
And I met Nana Mosi, Kofi's grandfather who is the village storyteller. He has a real and present role to play for all villagers.
"Though he is nearly eighty now
and seldom speaks,
when he does,
I hang on to all his words,
the lulls in between,
and I remember
the stories
like a pigeon remembers
its way home."
Thoughtful and ample backmatter includes acknowledgements, a Twi glossary, a legend for Adinkra symbols, and a list of real locations used in the telling of this remarkable, memorable story. In those acknowledgements, Kwami Alexander explains his reason for writing:
"because people need to know that the middle was not our beginning. I wanted to speak the truth about the history of African Americans, because while most of us are aware of the American part, it’s time for us to know more about the African part, right?"
Here's the best news for fans and new readers of Mr. Alexander's work. This is the first book in a trilogy! My eyes are peeled.
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