The Family mode of Blackbirds and Other Stories by Echebiri, Chika NEUF

This is a work of fiction that centers on some of lifes experiences. There are moral lessons to be learned, too, based on the roles played out by the different characters portrayed in this book. Young readers would find the stories informative, entertaining, and captivating, as a result of different cultural mix reflected within. The collection of stories begin with The Family of Blackbirds, which describes the family life of a close-knit family of blackbirds and the imminent danger that loomed over them, as revealed in a dream to one of the blackbirds. There is also Zizi - a girl who learns a lesson the hard way all because she failed to listen to a simple advice given to her.



Some acts of heroism are seen in Emekas Bravery and Gerda and the Missing Ring. Susans First Day in School, which is the last of the collection of stories, is a reflection of the tension felt by most children when they are attending school for the first time. But Susan here was able to overcome her initial apprehension and adjust readily to the new school environment to her parents delight. I hope this collection of stories would delight and inspire my readers.