The University of Wisconsin–Madison’s African Studies Program continues to enrich Wisconsin libraries through its exceptional READ AFRICA program. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education Title VI program and in partnership with Brittle Paper, the Children’s Africana Book Award, and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, this initiative aims to increase the visibility of African literature and inspire young readers throughout Wisconsin.
Through READ AFRICA, resource libraries in all 15 regions of Wisconsin will receive a curated selection of 10 books, including five children’s books and five young adult or adult titles. These books, sourced from a variety of African publishers, explore diverse themes and offer fresh perspectives on African culture and history.
Titles from Brittle Paper’s 100 Notable African Books
Now in its sixth year, Brittle Paper’s 100 Notable African Books list highlights the most influential titles and authors in African literature. The READ AFRICA program includes a selection of five adult titles from the 100 Notable African Books list, including:
- Love Marry Kill by Zukiswa Warner (South Africa)
- A Mouth Full of Salt by Reem Gaafar (Sudan)
- The Incredible Dreams of Garba Dakaskus by Umar Abubakar Sidi (Nigeria)
- How to Make a Space Masquerade by Mazi Nwonwu (Nigeria)
- Bald Dandelions with Their Wishes Blown Clean Off by various East African authors
Children’s African Story Hour
Another highlight of the READ AFRICA program is the Children’s African Story Hour, an educational event held every other Monday that introduces young readers to the compelling world of African literature. Held in collaboration with the Madison Public Library and the African Center for Community Development, this story hour features award-winning children’s books, including:
- Egyptian Lullaby by Zeena Pliska and Halem Aly
- The Taste of Home by Aminata Jalloh and Pervin Özcan
- Sankofa: A Culinary Story by Eric Adjepong and Lala Watkins
- Flipflopi by Linda Ravin Lodding, Dipesh Pabari, and Michael Machira Mwangi
- The Big Eyes of the Tiny Girl by Ondjaki and Carla Dias (translated by Marissa Moorman)
During the story hour, children engage in fun and interactive activities, such as arts, crafts, and cultural exploration, while enjoying authentic African cuisine. These books include winners of the Children’s Africana Book Awards, a collaborative project of the U.S. Department of Education Title VI National Resource Centers for Africa.
A legacy of literary enrichment
Through the READ AFRICA program, the African Studies Program at UW–Madison is committed to promoting cultural understanding and literary excellence throughout the state of Wisconsin. By providing access to a wide range of African literature in Wisconsin public libraries, READ AFRICA empowers readers to explore new perspectives, ignite their imaginations, and contribute to a deeper appreciation for African cultures. To learn more and see upcoming events, follow the African Studies Program on their website or social media.
Story by Kayla Daum