Children of the Benin Kingdom

Product Information

Imagine Me Stories is an award winning monthly subscription box that aims to inspire all children by providing quality black children's literature and empowering black history activities. Relying on her close friendships, the guidance of her ancestors and her own self-belief, Ada sets off on an incredible journey which tests her strengths to their limit. The book includes a factual section at the end, to help readers widen their knowledge of the Kingdom of Benin and West African culture and traditions. There will also be plenty of opportunities to practise reading skills and take part in discussions around the events of the story. The thing that most stood out for me was the fact that the main character was a girl and was not a tomboy.

An immersive adventure story for any child who enjoys being transported to another world, this short novel also fits well with the increasing interest in African fiction and children s stories that are inclusive, diverse and explore a greater range of cultures, stories and settings. A clearer explanation of why the people Ada grew up with were attacked by the Edo people would have been useful, but there are some good historical notes at the end. My least favourite character was Ujo pronounced oo-jor because he betrayed papa Eze and Ada to the Edo king (the sky king) Ogiso. This book includes a factual section at the end, to help readers widen their knowledge of the Kingdom of Benin and West African culture and traditions and linked resources and activity sheets are available to download for free from the publisher, Dinosaur Books Ltd: https://readingagency.My favourite character was Ada because she was strong, brave, and courageous and has an incredible family past.

Ada must now travel deep into the forest and discover the ancient Edo kingdom of Benin, connect with her past and to use everything within her power to heal the terrible divisions that are tearing the kingdom apart. The book enables you to live the history of a heritage that is not widely covered by the curriculum, but if it was used to support the teaching of ancient civilisations would help broaden and diversify the knowledge about West African culture and traditions that children have in Upper Key Stage 2.Ada has lived close to the great rainforest for her whole life, helping her beloved Papa Eze to heal fellow villagers when they fall sick. Books for Topics, children’s fiction reviews blog “A riveting historical adventure… as much about friendship and loyalty and the bonds of family as a quest for identity. The story is rich in historical detail and the cultural traditions of West Africa and as accurate historical fiction it is also perfect for celebrating Black history. Teachers notes, linked to the text, are also available to download for free from the publishers, Dinosaur Books Ltd. Accompanied by her true friend Mbe, Ada follows the instructions given to her by Papa Eze and travels far and wide to uncover the truth, which eventually leads her deep within the rainforest where her past will be discovered.