Sankofa, Eric Adjepong
Sankofa, Eric Adjepong
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Sankofa
A Culinary Story of Resilience and Belonging

Author: Eric Adjepong

Narrator: Eric Adjepong

Unabridged: 13 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Published: 10/03/2023

Synopsis

"Based on his own experiences as a first-generation Ghanaian American growing up in New York City, chef and author Adjepong’s debut picture book beautifully captures Kofi’s complicated feelings of in-betweenness, seeing himself as not quite American enough and not quite Ghanaian enough, even as he tries to connect to his family’s history. A recipe for jollof rice, the dish Kofi proudly shares with his class, is included at the end." —BCCB, starred review

Inspired by acclaimed chef Eric Adjepong’s own childhood, Sankofa is the powerful story of a young boy’s culinary journey 400 years into the past to reconnect with his African roots and find his own place in America. This thoughtful picture book also includes a recipe for jollof rice.

"Adjepong has crafted a delectable story that blends food history and Ghanaian culture. A celebration of food and culture that reminds youngsters to look back as they move forward." —Kirkus Reviews

What if home was a place you’ve never been? For Kofi, a first-generation Ghanaian American boy, home is a country called Ghana. But it’s a place he’s never been. When tasked to bring a dish that best represents his family’s culture to school for a potluck lunch, Kofi is torn. With the help of his Nanabarima (grandfather), Kofi learns the hardship and resilience his family has endured—and how food has always been an integral part their story and culture. Sankofa is a reminder that food can transport you to a place called home—even if you’ve never been.

About The Author

Eric Adjepong (he/him) is the host of a series of live, virtual cooking classes that explore West African cuisine and food of the African diaspora. Adjepong rose to prominence as a finalist on season 16 of Bravo's Top Chef and as a contestant on season 17 of Top Chef All-Stars. As a first-generation Ghanaian American born and raised in New York City, Adjepong sources the flavors and influences in his cooking from many of the West African dishes he grew up eating. Lala Watkins (she/her) is an illustrator, author, and self-proclaimed “good vibes connoisseur.” A graduate of the Ringling College of Art & Design, Watkins has worked on numerous children’s books and comics.

Reviews

Goodreads review by Todd on November 27, 2023

While the basic premise is understandable and relatable to many children, this picture book turned jeremiad comes off the rails when it tries to cover too much ground. Where was the editor to rein in the first time author to tighten up the story? It felt so long and unfocused. The illustrations are c......more

Goodreads review by Jessica on December 14, 2023

Gr 1-3: The author guides young readers through an exploration of culture, using food as a captivating medium. The narrative centers around Kofi, a young boy navigating the challenge of showcasing his cultural heritage at a class potluck. The tale artfully weaves the importance of traditions, family......more

Goodreads review by Holly on September 19, 2023

Eric Adjepong is one of my husband’s and my favourite chefs from the Food Network. I was so excited to receive this early copy from Penguin Random House Canada. Based on his own childhood, Eric Adjepong writes about the struggle a young boy has when connecting to his culture. Being the only one born......more

Goodreads review by Alicia on December 10, 2023

The illustrations, which are pretty basic, are less important than the story being told of a boy who is nervous about his classroom's potluck next week. He's dragging on telling his family about it because he doesn't want to be seen as too different and isn't confident. So when he sits down to dinne......more

Quotes

"Based on his own experiences as a first-generation Ghanaian American growing up in New York City, chef and author Adjepong’s debut picture book beautifully captures Kofi’s complicated feelings of in-betweenness, seeing himself as not quite American enough and not quite Ghanaian enough, even as he tries to connect to his family’s history. A recipe for jollof rice, the dish Kofi proudly shares with his class, is included at the end." —BCCB, starred review

"Adjepong has crafted a delectable story that blends food history and Ghanaian culture. A celebration of food and culture that reminds youngsters to look back as they move forward." —Kirkus Reviews

"Sankofa effectively introduces readers to food as a way of connecting people." —Booklist

"The heartwarming intergenerational bonding while they prepare the dish underscores the book’s theme of connecting generations through traditional meals. The choice of an atmospheric folk art style for illustrations adds to the cozy ambiance, evoking a sense of utility and community. The visuals complement the narrative beautifully, effectively conveying the message of unity and togetherness." —School Library Journal

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