To be honest, before today, I didn’t know exactly where Ghana was located or much about this African nation. I love to read variants of folk and fairy tales and have collected many versions of familiar stories. So, I was thrilled to discover this wonderful book.
The Ghanian Goldilocks.
By Dr. Tamara Pizzoli (author) and Phil Howell (illustrator)
picture book ages 4-8
From the first page of The Ghahaian Goldilocks, I knew I was going to love this book. Right away we learn that the story takes place in the West African city of Accra in a country once known as the Gold Coast but is now known as Ghana.
The story is about an African boy named Kofi who played outside so much that the sun bleached his hair golden, hence the nickname “Goldilocks.” Having unique hair made it difficult for Goldilocks to get away with much but it didn’t stop him from trying. The story follows the original tale in a number of ways but has distinctly Ghanaian flavor. Goldilocks enters an empty house and helps himself to the fufu in the three bowls, sits on carved stools, and helps himself to the items in three closets which include tunics, head wraps, Kente cloth, toys, and musical instruments. Goldilocks decides to try on a few of the things when the family returns! But, there is a surprise and satisfying twist at the end. Kofi/Goldilocks is a curious boy who learns the power and importance of family, community, and friendship. He is an irresistable character and I hope there will be more books featuring him.
This is a perfect Field Trip book. The art is bright and colorful and illustrates homes and people of Ghana. We learn about clothing, food, culture, and traditions. Children love the fact that Goldilocks is a boy and that his skin is brown. This book is enjoyable on its own but it really fun to use as a comparison with other versions of Goldilocks.
I love this illustration of Kofi/Goldilocks in the kitchen with Mama Abena which shows how similar we all are no matter where we live.
Dr. Tamara Pizzoli has written a companion book also illustrated by Phil Howell:
F is for Fufu: An Alphabet Book Based on The Ghanaian Goldilocks
This is an alphabetical guide to accompany The Ghanaian Goldilocks. The rhyming text is simple and the illustrations are wonderful. I would love to hang some of them on a wall. Both these books combine to introduce a country that few Americans know much about.
And, what is Fufu?
It is a food that originated in Ghana made by pounding cassava and unripe plantains.
It looks like it takes a lot of work to make fufu but you can buy it in a package.
I hear it is delicious. Does anyone know of a Ghanaian restaurant in California?
What a fun twist on a classic! Don’t you wish we had thought of it?
It is a really fun book. And it is so perfect sent in Ghana which is a country I know little about and am now curious to learn more.
I never seen Ghanaian restaurant, not in US not in Canada…
Evalina, This and that…
I’m going to be on the lookout for one – I want to try Fufu. Thanks for stopping by my blog.
if i’m not mistaken, the city of Accra is supposed to be VERY sophisticated and the women beautiful. When do you we leave?
It does seem like a fabulous place to go. Check your calendar – I’m up for a trip.
Oh it’s so wonderful seeing you write about The Ghanaian Goldilocks!! It’s one of my favorites and taught me alot too! As the Director of Public Relations and Marketing for The English Schoolhouse where these two books were created; we are honored that you highlighted Dr. Tamara Pizzoli’s books! Email me if you’d like to interview her. She has three other fun books too: Auntie Nappy: Lessons From The Beautiful Life Patterns Made by Nefeterius Akeli McPherson, M is for Marrakech: An Alphabet Book of Cities Around the World and M is for Mohawk: An Alphabet Book of Fresh Hairstyles. Where or how did you discover the book?
I have so enjoyed the Ghanaian Goldilocks. I love to find variants of familiar tales and this one is the best because Goldilocks is a boy. And, because his locks are golden because he plays outside so much!!! I’ve been doing the April A to Z blog challenge. My theme is Read your World with Kid’s books so when I got to G I looked for places that started with G. There are many – Germany, Guam, etc. But, when I read The Ghanaian Goldilocks I was hooked. I’m trying to find books that reflect the faces of the children I work with and love. Thanks for publishing such wonderful books. I will look for Tamara’s other books and would love to interview her. Thanks!
Wow! Thank you so much for featuring my first baby/book, The Ghanaian Goldilocks! My assistant sent me the link just now and I’m giddy over here in Rome, Italy. There are many more follow-up books to come. Your support and the time you took to post this is so very appreciated. Ciao and grazie!
Hi Tamara,
I love your book and having been sharing it with lots of kids. I have a friend whose son looks like he belongs in your book. I ordered a copy for him. Enjoy Rome! I’m hoping to get there before too long. And, I really appreciate you stopping by and commenting. Ciao.
Oh! and the audiobooks are available on YouTube for The Ghanaian Goldilocks and F is for Fufu! Enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWhSlX66fSw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rWTttWyK-o
Oh thank you! I’ll share these with the kiddos tomorrow.
Have a great day.
How exciting!!! The Ghanaian Goldilocks is going to become a classic!!! The morals and values are so valuable for children and adults! Every child can reflect and learn from Kofi!! Such beautiful and amazing work of Dr. Tamara Pizzoli!!!
I agree!