In keeping with our theme of contemporary fiction, I would like to introduce you to Tafadzwa Taruvinga and his upcoming novel, "Gone with the Blue Zodiac." This book is to be released in November 2023 and the author's synopsis succinctly describes the story as a moving and humorous story that strongly resonates with traditional and … Continue reading #ZimbabweLitMonth: Gone with the Blue Zodiac (2023)
#ZimbabweLitMonth: The Quality of Mercy (2022)
Of all the countries in Africa, the liberation struggle for independence in Zimbabwe was the longest and bloodiest. Historical fiction has become a popular genre in interrogating our convoluted history. Siphiwe Gloria Ndlovu, with her lyrical prowess, has done a marvelous job of narrating pre- and post-colonial Zimbabwean history in her City of Kings trilogy. … Continue reading #ZimbabweLitMonth: The Quality of Mercy (2022)
#ZimbabweLitMonth: Tai the Rhino: A Bee in the Nose (2022)
I grew up reading the "Dick and Jane" series. For most children of my generation, we did not have access to reading material that represented us or our own environment. So I was delighted to come across "Tai the Rhino: A Bee in the Nose" which is a children's book that not only serves to … Continue reading #ZimbabweLitMonth: Tai the Rhino: A Bee in the Nose (2022)
Montenegro 🇲🇪: Catherine the Great and the Small by Olja Knežević, tr. by Paula Gordon and Ellen Elias-Bursać
In a Nutshell: This is a book about the life of Catherine. Split into two sections: Catherine the Small is about her childhood and youth growing up in Montenegro and then studying/living in Belgrade, Serbia. The second half, entitled Catherine the Great is about her time as a mother and wife. The novel takes us … Continue reading Montenegro 🇲🇪: Catherine the Great and the Small by Olja Knežević, tr. by Paula Gordon and Ellen Elias-Bursać
#WorldKidLit Wednesday: Perfect Presents!
In Perfect Presents!, a wry, graphic picture book from Down Under for ages 3-7 (but frankly, for all ages), we meet a rotund owl and his friend, a salamandery lizard. The lizard arrives bearing gifts: a cake, a bouquet of flowers, and a large wrapped box. The owl devours them with great satisfaction. When he licks his … Continue reading #WorldKidLit Wednesday: Perfect Presents!
#WorldKidLit Wednesday: Pearl of the Sea
Set in South Africa, Pearl of the Sea* is a beautifully illustrated coming-of-age graphic novel for upper middle grade and YA readers. Pearl, whose mother abandoned the family long before the start of the story, lives with her father, Vernon—a restaurant owner and chef who is sinking deeper and deeper into financial trouble—and her beloved … Continue reading #WorldKidLit Wednesday: Pearl of the Sea
Global Literature in Libraries Initiative 