Anesu agus na Creutairean Uisge (Anesu and the Water Spirits) is a new children’s book, published by ATLAS Arts, written by Tawana Maramba and beautifully illustrated by Ann Macleod. The story centers the experience of Afro Gaels in Scotland, and children starting school in a new place for the first time.
Anesu, who has recently moved from Zimbabwe with her family, is beginning her first day of school. Encouraged by her teacher and classmates, she shares experiences from Zimbabwe, and the story of a water spirit called Njuzu, inspiring her class to share stories of sea creatures, and to grow closer, in turn.
The book features artwork created by the P1, 2 and 3 classes of Bun-sgoil Taobh na Pàirce and the Edinburgh GME BAME Group, in a series of workshops leading up to the making of the book.
To celebrate the launch of the book, ATLAS is hosting 3 book launches across Scotland:
1 November, 2 pm: with Faclan Og, The Hebridean Book Festival and Stornoway Library
6 November, 2 pm: with Bun-sgoil Taobh na Pàirce (pupils only)
19 November, 10 am: with Bun-sgoil Portrìgh and Portree Library (pupils only)
Free copies of the book are being sent to every library in the Gàidhealtachd, and to C1-C3 pupils in Gaelic Medium schools in Scotland. If you are the organiser, a kid or parent taking part in any other GME setting for kids aged 5 – 9, and would like some free copies, write to Katharine.
You can also buy copies at ATLAS Arts’ online shop for £8.99.
With huge thanks to Cass Ezeji as editor-at-large, and to Naomi Gessesse for their editorial support too.
Thank you to Anesu’s funders: Bòrd na Gàidhlig, The Gaelic Book Council, and Creative Scotland.