Overview
"How about we make a deal?" Nana rubbed Kwesi's head. "I will learn to swim, if you do."
"Deal!"
Kwesi likes spending time at the lake with his friends, except there's one tiny problem... he can't swim. But guess what? Neither can Nana Ruby! When she comes over for dinner one night, she tells Kwesi about when she moved from Ghana to the US and the history of segregation that kept her out of pools and caused a fear of water among many Black people.
"So I will never learn how to swim?" Kwesi asks. But Nana Ruby tells him they will call on the strength of Mami Wata, the sea creature of West African legend, to conquer their fears together. This touching intergenerational story teaches the importance of naming, acknowledging and facing fears.
- End notes include more information on West African cultures, including the Akan people, day names, and adinkra symbols.
- Teaches kids about the history of segregation of public pools and beaches in an accessible way
This book title, Kwesi and Nana Ruby Learn to Swim, ISBN: 9798888593639, by Kobina Commeh, Bárbara Quintino, published by Barefoot Books (February 3, 2026) is available in paperback. Our minimum order quantity is 25 copies. All standard bulk book orders ship FREE in the continental USA and delivered in 4-10 business days.
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