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10 African Picture Books Celebrating Family and Community

10 African Picture Books Celebrating Family and Community

Reading to your kids is a great way to grow their imagination and learn about people, places, and cultures worldwide. African-themed children’s books are especially wonderful at teaching valuable life lessons about family, friendship, and community.
So we’ve put together a list of ten picture books that celebrate family and community to teach kids about what makes life meaningful.
1. Grandma’s List 
Young Esi is eager to help her grandmother with a simple shopping list, but what starts as an errand turns into an adventure full of storytelling. This charming tale from Ghana is all about the love between a grandparent and grandchild and the joy of helping family.

 

 

  

 

2. Sunjata and the Mande Empire 

Discover the legendary story of Sunjata, the heroic figure who united the Mali Empire. It had been foretold that Sunjata would become king. However, many doubted he had the skills to fulfill the prophecy. Sunjata's mother's encouragement helps him overcome challenges and fulfill his destiny. His journey unites the Mande Empire, showing that collective strength and unity builds resilient community. This book beautifully illustrates the importance of strength in family legacies and cultural heritage.

 

 

3. Chicken in the Kitchen 

When a young girl encounters a giant chicken in her kitchen, things get hilariously unpredictable! Is the nature spirit that lives in the wooden walls of her house a help or a hindrance? Is the mischievous giant chicken a friend or a foe? Most importantly, will she be able to save the food her aunts have cooked for the New Yam Festival the next day? Set in Nigeria, this playful story combines magic with cultural heritage, teaching kids about family traditions through the lens of the unexpected.

 

 

4. Who is King? Ten Magical Stories from Africa

This collection of lively animal tales from across Africa is packed with stories about friendship, cooperation, and community. It’s perfect for young readers who love adventures and teaches the value of working together. Find out what happens to Lion when he challenges Elephant and discovers who is the real king of the savannah; laugh along with Tortoise as he bewitches the animals in Tiger's work party with his irresistible music; find out why Hippo has no hair, how Elephant got his trunk, and why Cockerel crows. Then read about the woman who had a mouse child! The stories are drawn from the rich folklore of Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, Malawi, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.

 

     

5. Sleep Well, Siba and Saba

This cozy bedtime story from Uganda follows two sisters as they dream up new adventures every night. It celebrates sibling bonds and the warmth of family, making it a soothing read for bedtime.

 

      

6. Thank You, Omu!

Inspired by Igbo traditions, this story of Omu, who shares her delicious stew with everyone in her community, emphasizes generosity and the importance of communal ties. It’s a joyful story about how sharing food brings people together.

 

   

7. Imhotep of Ancient Kemet 

Imhotep of Ancient Kemet emphasizes community and family through the story of Imhotep, the legendary architect, physician, and advisor, whose wisdom and innovations benefit his society. As an architect and healer, Imhotep dedicates his talents to improving the lives of those around him, fostering a sense of unity and pride within his community. His legacy teaches kids the impact one person can have in uplifting and strengthening their cultural heritage.

 

     

8. Sosu’s Call

When a great storm threatens, Sosu, an African boy who is unable to walk, joins his dog Fusa in helping save their village, showing how everyone has something valuable to offer. This story from Ghana highlights the strength of community and the power of inclusion.

 

 

9. Anansi Goes Fishing

Anansi the Spider likes to eat fish but is much too lazy to catch one himself—so he decides to trick Turtle into catching one for him. When Anansi asks Turtle to teach him how to catch fish, Anansi thinks tricking Turtle into doing all the work for him will be easy. But Turtle is not as easily fooled as Anansi thought. Anansi’s antics with his friend Turtle are perfect for kids who enjoy a bit of fun and mischief. This tale shows kids how working together and treating friends fairly can benefit everyone in a community.

 

 

   

10. The Village That Vanished 
In this powerful story set in an African village, young Abikanile and her mother lead their community in a courageous stand against slave traders. With the guidance of the village elder and the strength of their ancestors, the villagers unite to protect their way of life, disappearing into the forest and outwitting their would-be captors. The Village That Vanished is a moving tale of resilience, community, and the determination to preserve freedom and heritage. It’s an inspiring story that introduces children to the importance of courage, unity, and the power of a shared cultural identity.

Each of these books celebrates family, community, and the beauty of African culture in a way that’s perfect for young readers.

Idia of the Benin Kingdom

€19,95 

Imhotep of Ancient Kemet

€19,95 

Njinga of Ndongo and Matamba

€19,95 

Sunjata of the Mande Empire

€19,95 

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