Wanjik, Child of Mine

"In this vibrantly colored picture book, readers follow a young Kenyan girl through her stages of childhood in three very different settings.[...] Young readers interested in Africa and Kenya in particular will enjoy this trip to an attractive and exciting destination."  - Susan Harari, Youth Services Book Review

 "Through the engaging narrative and calm brush strokes, children are taken on a journey across the vibrant landscapes of Kenya. Karen Vermeulen brings the story to life in parts where words are silent. [...] This 32-paged picture book amplifies children’s understanding of diversity, inclusion, culture, language and how bonds are created beyond the four walls of the home. In a world bubbling with a symphony of identities, there’s a Wanjikũ in every one of us." - Ayo Oyeku, World Kid Lit

"Vibrant, textured illustrations accompany this eloquent picture book about embracing your identity." - Foreword Reviews

Wankiju, "Child of Mine deserves to be included in both school and public libraries.[...] This book is a model for the importance of telling and retelling children the stories of who they are and where they come from, providing them a foundation that will serve them well throughout their lives."  - Global Lit in Libraries Initiative

"Wanjiku, Child of Mine is a beautiful story of identity and origin, of family bonds and forging new connections. Ciiku Ndung'u-Case's lilting language, along with Karen Vermeulen's evocative illustrations, transports young readers to lush Kenya. This story is a treat of unexpected childhood delights, community connections, and resilience."  - Kashmira Sheth, author of Tiger in my Soup and Feast of Peas
"Ciiku's words transported me to the heart and soul of Kenya and will open the young reader's eyes to a world far beyond their own. I was moved by this one-of-a-kind story filled with deep cultural details, rich nuances, and a main character proud of her culture and heritage. Bold, bright, and beautiful artwork fills each page with joy, and children will come away feeling like they have just been on an incredible journey with Wanjiku, from her village to the big city, from her family to her friends who surround her with love and fill her with a sense of belonging. A must-read!" - Namita Moolani Mehra, author of The Light Within You and Anni Dreams of Biryani "[A] beautifully narrated tale about how language and identity are intrinsically connected. The art is rich and textural, mirroring the Gikũyũ culture. Karen Vermeulen wonderfully supplements the narrative with her pictures - which are lush, pattern-rich but at the same time allow for muted, thoughtful moments." - Chaaya Prabhat, illustrator of The Best Diwali Ever andBest of All: The Magical Mix in You