Set in the heart of London, this charming and humorous picture book celebrates curiosity, imagination, and the delightful ways children see the world differently.
Dinosaurs at St. James’s Park was inspired by an imaginative young boy named Ariyo. For many years I would take him to the park to watch the ducks, swans, geese, and pelicans by the lake and to play in the playground.
Like many children of his generation, Ariyo loved dinosaurs. Before long, he began to see the birds in the park as prehistoric creatures, and that wonderful imagination became the inspiration for this story.
My thanks also go to the illustrator, Akin, who — despite never having seen these London landmarks — has beautifully brought them to life in this book.
LinSey –
I thought the book was beautifully illustrated, imaginative and captivating. Well done!
Arike, D. –
Children of the Stars was a good read, really liked how it portrayed the names of our ancestors(making us remember our root). Also liked the lesson passed in the book and this could easily pass as a good bedtime story for the kids. Illustration was on point, the questions and sketching at the end of the book was also a great idea. Looking forward to the next title
Akinyeye Ogunjulugbe (Milo) –
Such an interesting story of our yourba traditional Gods in a different direction. Bringing most of them together in a book to illustrate their functions is absolutely brilliant. Most of all educating our kids about our yourba culture and Gods is definitely a good thing on keeping our tradition alive. Will definitely recommend this book not only for Yoruba people but for all.
Bisola P. –
The quality of the book is good, engaging with the characters that look like us. A great narrative children’s book, perfect for parents teaching their children on the importance of family, consideration, and morals.
Bravo
Love the questions set afterward once done with the reading of the book and, of course, the coloring of the book at the end..A plus!!
Kristina, N –
Wow! Wow! Wow! This is a great story and way for children (and adults) to learn of the Orisas. The story drew me in immediately and I couldn’t wait to get to the following pages. Coming from a diasporic who was born and raised in the West under Christianity, this is a beautifully crafted introduction to a different cosmological belief system…even more so that it is “African” (Yoruba).
The outlined names of the Orisa at the beginning of the book as well as the questions and coloring pages after the story were wonderful touches and bonuses I did not expect to encounter. This is such an amazing learning tool and the artwork is equally impressive. Honestly, I wish I had something like this to read when I was a child. I wish I had something like this to read to my child when she was young. This will appeal to anyone who wants to explore, engage, and educate their children about this ancestral view of a Creator and divine persona who bear the unmatched and beautiful hues of the Motherland.
Sinmi –
Reading into Children of the stars brought back old folklores as told by my GrandMa from my childhood memories and reading them again so aptly portrayed in modern day style is quite pleasing.
Overall, I found it interesting, however I felt it stopped abruptly or was I feeling the intensity so much that I wanted it to climax even further as they entered “Ile Aye”? I may need to watch out for Volume 2! You know what they say, the reward for a good job done is more work!
Beyond my wild expectations of an escalated fight, it did have a good ending regardless as the message was clearly passed when their Mother ended the fight on a peaceful note sending them along to help their brother in unity! Brilliant.
I love the great use of graphics and colours and also particularly, the touch of questions at the end with some colouring exercise for the kids! Keeps the conversation and engagement going!
To the target audience as well, the kids, I believe they will love the story as my 10 year old son did. Great to read good old fictional stories like this.