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Kwesi and Nana Ruby Learn to Swim


Kwesi could not find comfort in the swimming pool. While other children played and enjoyed themselves, Kwesi had never learned how to swim. During a game of oware, Nana (his grandmother) noticed that something was bothering him. Kwesi admitted that he felt sad about not being able to swim.

Nana then told him about the water spirit Mami Wata, a symbol of strength and nurturing in West Africa. Inspired by this newfound knowledge, Kwesi became determined to conquer his fear of the water, with Nana by his side for support.

Writer Kobina Commeh shares a poignant story of resilience and courage across generations in the picture book Kwesi and Nana Ruby Learn to Swim. Inspired by his childhood in Ghana, where he encountered tales of Mami Wata, a half-woman, half-fish figure, Commeh sheds light on the painful history of racial segregation in the United States that prevented many generations of Black Americans from learning to swim. Brazilian illustrator Barbara Quintino beautifully brings the story of Kwe-Kwe and Nana to life through her art. This collaboration reinforces the diasporic themes explored in the book, which aims to help children understand history, instill pride in their heritage, and overcome challenges.

Editor's Note: This review was originally published in Chicago Book Review.

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