Family. Culture. Traditions. These are important building blocks that can help children grow in confidence and self-awareness. As a mother and an author who proudly claims her Nigerian heritage, Ozi Okaro understands the importance of teaching her children the customs of their ancestors. Her debut children's book, The Big Ceremony, offers an engaging introduction to a vivid cultural experience of her people-a traditional Nigerian wedding.
In this lighthearted and fun children's book, young readers get to join six-year-old Cheta and her best friend, Kosi, as they attend the wedding of Kosi's cousin. Delighted to each wear her own stunning, specially designed dress, the girls can hardly contain their excitement as they experience the lavish festivities and witness the captivating rituals that are part of both their families' African heritage.
An excellent choice for teachers and librarians looking to introduce students to the customs of an African country, this is also a great gift for children of Nigerian decent who want to learn more about their own culture.
About the Author: Born in Canada, Ozi Okaro is of Nigerian decent and has spent a significant part of her childhood living in Nigeria.
After gaining a bachelor of science degree in computer science and statistics from the University of Toronto, she worked as a computer programmer and business systems analyst. Then, upon earning an MBA in marketing management from Columbia Business School in New York, she transitioned into a career in global e-commerce, specializing in marketing, web experience, merchandising, and catalog management.
Okaro now lives in the United States with her husband and four children. She is the founder of African Girl Brands (www.africangirlbrands.com), which focuses on toys, books, and other educational materials for children of African descent. Inspired by her kids' curiosity about their Nigerian heritage, she wrote her debut children's book, The Big Ceremony, to introduce kids to her country's unique customs.
