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Anna Hibiscus

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Anna Hibiscus
Written by Atinuke
Illustrated by Lauren Tobia
Kane Miller, 2010. Intermediate. 109 p.

This joyful J Intermediate chapter book is about Anna Hibiscus and her big family living in modern, urban Africa. Atinuke, a professional storyteller from Nigeria, writes in a style that is reminiscent of the oral tradition, which makes this book excellent for reading aloud. Each lively chapter explores the relationship between tradition and modernity that Anna Hibiscus experiences in and around her home. These ideas are addressed productively and may prompt some worthwhile discussion during reading, but the book is cheerful and funny even while encouraging cultural consciousness.
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