Chambers, Catherine. African Culture.

Chambers, Catherine.  African Culture.   Capstone/Heinemann  48p  $32.00 

978-1-4329-6776-5     2013  elm/ms  E-BNes      series: Global Cultures            

The diversity and wonder of Africa come alive in this short portrait of African culture.  To create a book that can successfully combine so many different aspects of this hugely varied continent is a feat in itself, and author Catherine Chambers has done just that.  Chambers weaves the most interesting information about both ancient and modern times into a book that has a high interest level for younger readers who want to learn the basics.  To begin, one learns the definition of culture.  On the adjoining page, a photograph of a Masai herdsman sporting traditional garb colorfully entices readers to move forward.  The definition is followed by chapters on family, customs, religious beliefs, fine arts, performance arts, and modern times.  When Chambers wants to discuss something in East Africa, as she does with the age grade system of education, she compares it with information about schools in West Africa.  In addition, if she identifies a cultural tradition of one nation, she offers a contrasting piece of information about another nation.  This method is not unique, but Chambers does it so well!  Every page has a border of tapestry which seems to coordinate perfectly with the photograph she has chosen to complement her text.  Every chapter offers anecdotal information in a section called “Did you know?,” which is interesting and informative.  Finally, one finds a timeline, a cultural map, a glossary and a list of resources to consult that provides readers with resources that will get them reading more about Africa.  All in all, this book is a wonderful way to introduce readers to the excitement and diversity of Africa.  

The series provides books about Africa, Native Americans, China, Australia and more.  Each book aptly covers a wide range of information about each culture, offers photographs and anecdotal information to enhance its topic and promotes instruction of social studies through its interesting contrasts.                                            --Martha Squaresky