Kwesi and Nana Ruby Learn to Swim
When Kwesi confides to his Nana Ruby that he is embarrassed by his inability to swim, she makes him a deal: if he learns to swim, she will, too. Surprised that Nana Ruby can’t swim, Kwesi learns about segregation—and its lingering consequences for Black Americans. Inspired by a story about an African water deity, Kwesi agrees to the deal. The illustrations reflect the geometric patterns and saturated colors of traditional kente cloth, honoring the history and heritage of the book’s Ghanaian characters.
Reviewed by
Danielle Ballantyne
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
