In many African villages, tales, adventures, myths and allegories whetted the evenings. Children were fed every evening with dosages of any of these. However, this tradition has been lost to modernisation. These days, children are permanently glued to cartoon networks. “Why should I share my things with anyone?” he would always grumble.” He believes as the only child, everything belongs to him.It is a perfect fit for Children Literature not Literature for Children.
In addition to teaching children to not give up, the novel gives children a look at life in Nigeria. The author gives an insight to children across the world what life in Nigeria is like. By using words and discussing cultural practices in Nigeria, he helps children begin understanding the idea of humanity at an early age rather than later.
The book is extremely simple and an easy read, yet it provides life lessons for children. The book does well in tying in cultural ideas into a story interesting for children. It is important for children to understand that they can overcome their challenges and keep going, which Okhai helps promote through this novel. He perfectly creates an enjoyable children’s novel that inspires children to achieve their goals by overcoming challenges in their lives.
The book deals with some important topical issues, raising challenging questions about the world children growing up in Africa today will inherit. It also placed a spotlight on family dynamics and constructions of childhood in ways that encourage readers to think about children’s feature in African culture.
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