A Leadership Story
Rafu lowly porcupine leaves the comfort and safety of his kapok tree to find meaning in his life. Along his journey, he meets Sulcata Turtle, Lion, Monkey and Vulture. Each guide him to the realization he possesses the characteristics for a meaningful life.
Based on an Ashanti Parable "If you don't know where you've come from, you won't know where you're going."
The Ashanti Culture from Ghana, Africa, has long been a source of folklore handed down from generation to generation. We are familiar with their stories of Anansi, the Spider and Brer Rabbit. Each character and symbol reflect a deeper meaning.
- Sulcata Turtle-Wisdom
- Lion-Mercy
- Vulture-Spirit of Creator
- Dung Beetle-Adapting (Find a dung beetle on each page!)
- Kapok Tree-Life
- The Adinkra Cloth
The Adinkra cloth is a ceremonial cloth used to drape the deceased. Each symbol stamped on the colorful cloth reflects a characteristic of the deceased. In the book, symbols are printed on each page to help the reader reveal clues to the main characters feelings.
Reader Guide
Included is a guide to the Adinkra cloth symbols, the significance of the animals, Ashanti words used and more.
Joni Oeltjenbruns is an award winning author and illustrator, with the honor of the Children's Choice Award.
