BLOG TOUR: I am You: A Book About Ubuntu by Refiloe Moahloli
Book cover and illustrations provided by Blue Slip Media.
ABOUT THE BOOK
We may be different, but our hearts beat the same.
In southern Africa, there is a belief called ubuntu—the idea that we are all connected. No matter where we’re from or who we are, a person is a person through their connections to other people. With simple, lyrical text and charming artwork, this lively picture book first published in South Africa is the perfect introduction to the concept of ubuntu for young kids. A celebration of friendship and kindness, the book shows children the many ways that we are all one.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR
Refiloe Moahloli is a bestselling South African picture book author. She is passionate about writing stories that bring out the best in the human spirit. She spent the early part of her career in the corporate world, but an eye-opening assignment to Mumbai led her to pursue her dream of becoming a full-time writer. She currently lives and works in Johannesburg. Learn more at refiloemoahloli.com, and follow her on Instagram @RefiloeMoahloli.
Zinelda McDonald is an award-winning South African illustrator who lives in Wellington in the Western Cape of South Africa. She has illustrated numerous children's books and is also a well-known designer and illustrator of children's book covers. Awards for her work include the Alba Bouwer Prize and the Exclusive Books IBBY SA Award. Follow her on Instagram @Zinelda.
PROFESSIONAL REVIEWS
★“[Refiloe] Moahloli’s work makes for a stunning picture book for young readers and their grown-ups that focuses on our shared sense of community…. Celebrates our shared humanity and the strength in treating others with love and respect. A recommended first purchase.” ―School Library Journal (starred review)
“An edifying, unifying picture book that’s much needed in these divisive times.” ―Kirkus Reviews
MY REVIEW
This lovely book shares the south African belief of ubuntu. The book highlights the connections human beings share through shared experiences and feelings. The author points out that when we hurt others, in the end we hurt ourselves also, and when he help others, we help ourselves. McDonald's adorable illustrations show a group of children from a variety of ethnicities and backgrounds interacting with each other demonstrating the principles of ubuntu. This tender book provides an important reminder of the importance of being kind to each other and reaching out to others despite our differences and finding the similarities.
ILLUSTRATIONS
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