Reviewed by Akwasi Osei
Review Source: Africa Access
Book Author: Laurie Ann Thompson
This is the true story of Emmanuel Yeboah. Born in Ghana in 1977 with a deformed leg, he became the personification of courage, strength—mental and physical—and determination even as a child. His life and challenges are well-known in Ghana.
This excellent picture book brings the narrative of his life to a wider audience, showing the power of the human spirit, even at a very young age! He is a true hero for kids. Continue reading.
Emmanuel's Dream by Laurie Ann Thompson
Illustrator: Sean Qualls
Published by Random House Children's Books on January 6th 2015
Genres: Africa, Biography and Autobiography, Disabilities
Pages: 40
Reading Level: Grade K
ISBN: 9780449817445
Review Source: Africa Access
Buy at Powell's Books
SYNOPSIS: Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah's inspiring true story--which was turned into a film, Emmanuel's Gift, narrated by Oprah Winfrey--is nothing short of remarkable.
Born in Ghana, West Africa, with one deformed leg, he was dismissed by most people--but not by his mother, who taught him to reach for his dreams. As a boy, Emmanuel hopped to school more than two miles each way, learned to play soccer, left home at age thirteen to provide for his family, and, eventually, became a cyclist. He rode an astonishing four hundred miles across Ghana in 2001, spreading his powerful message: disability is not inability. Today, Emmanuel continues to work on behalf of the disabled.
Thompson's lyrical prose and Qualls's bold collage illustrations offer a powerful celebration of triumphing over adversity.
Includes an author's note with more information about Emmanuel's charity.
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