Sankofa: A Culinary Story of Resilience and Belonging

by Eric Adjepong (Author) Lala Watkins (Illustrator)

Reading Level: 2nd − 3rd Grade

What if home was a place you've never been?

For Kofi, a first-generation Ghanaian American boy, home is a country called Ghana. But it's a place he's never been. When tasked to bring a dish that best represents his family's culture to school for a potluck lunch, Kofi is torn.

With the help of his Nanabarima (grandfather), Kofi learns the hardship and resilience his family has endured--and how food has always been an integral part their story and culture. Sankofa is a reminder that food can transport you to a place called home--even if you've never been.

"Based on his own experiences as a first-generation Ghanaian American growing up in New York City, chef and author Adjepong’s debut picture book beautifully captures Kofi’s complicated feelings of in-betweenness, seeing himself as not quite American enough and not quite Ghanaian enough, even as he tries to connect to his family’s history. A recipe for jollof rice, the dish Kofi proudly shares with his class, is included at the end." —BCCB, starred review

"Adjepong has crafted a delectable story that blends food history and Ghanaian culture. A celebration of food and culture that reminds youngsters to look back as they move forward." —Kirkus Reviews

"Sankofa effectively introduces readers to food as a way of connecting people." —Booklist

 

Select format:
Hardcover
$19.99

Kirkus

A celebration of food and culture that reminds youngsters to look back as they move forward. (recipe for jollof rice) (Picture book. 4-8)

ALA/Booklist

Sankofa effectively introduces readers to food as a way of connecting people.

School Library Journal

Gr 1-3--Adjepong guides young readers through an exploration of culture, using food as a captivating medium. The narrative centers around Kofi, a young boy facing the challenge of showcasing his cultural heritage at a class potluck. Kofi's apprehension is palpable, and readers empathize with his desire to avoid feeling like an outsider. Enter his grandfather, who imparts not only culinary expertise but also a sense of pride in their Ghanaian roots. The heartwarming intergenerational bonding while they prepare the dish underscores the book's theme of connecting generations through traditional meals. The choice of an atmospheric folk art style for illustrations adds to the cozy ambiance, evoking a sense of utility and community. The visuals complement the narrative beautifully, effectively conveying the message of unity and togetherness. The level and composition of the text may be better suited for older children, allowing them to appreciate the nuances of the story. VERDICT In a tale that artfully weaves the importance of traditions, family, and community through the prism of food, this charming read illustrates the power of food to unite and bridge cultural gaps. A valuable addition to any picture book collection.--Jessica Calaway

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Review quotes

Based on his own experiences as a first-generation Ghanaian American growing up in New York City, chef and author Adjepong's debut picture book beautifully captures Kofi's complicated feelings of in-betweenness, seeing himself as not quite American enough and not quite Ghanaian enough, even as he tries to connect to his family's history. A recipe for jollof rice, the dish Kofi proudly shares with his class, is included at the end. —BCCB, starred review

 

 

Eric Adjepong
Eric Adjepong (he/him) is the host of a series of live, virtual cooking classes that explore West African cuisine and food of the African diaspora. Adjepong rose to prominence as a finalist on season 16 of Bravo's Top Chef and as a contestant on season 17 of Top Chef All-Stars. As a first-generation Ghanaian American born and raised in New York City, Adjepong sources the flavors and influences in his cooking from many of the West African dishes he grew up eating.

Lala Watkins (she/her) is an illustrator, author, and self-proclaimed "good vibes connoisseur." A graduate of the Ringling College of Art & Design, Watkins has worked on numerous children's books and comics.
Classification
Fiction
ISBN-13
9780593385944
Lexile Measure
720
Guided Reading Level
-
Publisher
Penguin Workshop
Publication date
October 03, 2023
Series
-
BISAC categories
JNF053140 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Social Topics | Prejudice & Racism
JNF025010 - Juvenile Nonfiction | History | Africa
JNF014000 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Cooking & Food
Library of Congress categories
Picture books
Family life
Food
Ghanaian Americans

Subscribe to our delicious e-newsletter!