Ayo takes an imaginative journey around the globe to discover the beauty and resilience of the African diaspora. With extensive endnotes. When Ayo struggles to fall asleep, he tumbles into an extraordinary journey across the African diaspora, where he experiences creative and resilient cultures that share his heritage. From hip-hop to kente cloth, from Mansa Musa to revolution, the African diaspora has inspired the world! Endmatter further explores connections between the nations, cultures, and traditions represented on both sides of the Atlantic, for a deeper understanding of the African diaspora. AGES: 5 to 10 AUTHOR: Ain Drew is the author of Ari J.'s Kinky, Curly Crown. She is inspired by the power of words and loves writing beautiful stories for children. As an educator, Ain uses books to expand her students' knowledge about the world around them. Ain lives in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, and enjoys spending time with her son, DJ, learning about different cultures around the globe, exploring new places, and reading. Erin K. Robinson is an Emmy-nominated illustrator trained at the Parsons School of Design and the Corcoran School of Art. Erin's illustrations have been featured in the New York Times and the Washington Post, and she has illustrated numerous picture books, including A Library by Nikki Giovanni. Erin splits her time between Brooklyn, NY, and Washington, DC. SELLING POINTS: . AFRICAN DIASPORA: This unique introduction to a vast and powerful global concept offers an engaging entryway to explore many diverse cultures, historical figures, nations, events, and movements within the African diaspora. . IDENTITY: Making connections between the Americas and Africa helps Ayo appreciate his deep roots and the accomplishments of his people; themes of belonging and interconnectedness. . BREATHTAKING ARTWORK: Vibrant digital art by award-winning illustrator Erin K. Robinson infuses Ayo's journey with energy and authentic detail, using patterns and styles that highlight the cultures represented. . EDUCATIONAL: Main spreads include helpful extras like info boxes and country labels, while robust endnotes deepen engagement with the story. . DIVERSITY: cultures and countries represented include Trinidad and Tobago, the Dogon and Makonde people, Nigeria, African American culture, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Ghana, Haiti, Mali, Egypt, Cuba, Colombia, Brazil, Ethiopia, Xhosa, Yoruba, and Zulu. Spiritual traditions represented include Yoruba beliefs and Islam. Crowd scenes include a person in a wheelchair.
