260 Questions
True or false: The Offin River flows into the mighty Pra, which then travels over one hundred and fifty miles down to the Coast, where it drains into the Big Sea.
True
True or false: The foreigners came as invaders disguised as enemies, pretending to be students of the people's way.
False
True or false: The river Offin carried the narrator's fifth child on its shoulders at first breath.
True
True or false: The narrator's grandson got his name because he stopped crying as he floated off like a ship inching toward the horizon.
False
The protagonist's cousin, who is strong and tough, kisses a girl named Ama, which leads to a confrontation.
True
The protagonist engages in a physical battle with his cousin to defend Ama's honor, unintentionally causing injury.
True
The protagonist and his cousin, born a week apart, have a competitive and contentious relationship.
True
The cousin physically attacks the protagonist, asserting his dominance.
True
The protagonist recalls a moment of near-death and a rescue by Mr. Phillip, a teacher.
True
Mr. Phillip admonishes the protagonist and his classmates for their behavior, emphasizing the importance of education and culture.
True
The protagonist's conversation with Mr. Phillip reveals the teacher's aspirations for the protagonist's future.
True
Mr. Phillip encourages the protagonist to focus on education and learning the Queen's language to broaden his opportunities.
True
The protagonist rushes to meet his friend Ebo at the river, where they engage in playful banter.
True
The protagonist finds solace in a secluded spot by the river, where he contemplates and swims.
True
The protagonist enjoys swimming and reflecting in the serene, clear waters of the secluded spot.
True
The protagonist engages in a carefree and joyful activity of diving and swimming in the river, finding peace and solace.
True
Kofi's father is present in the village during the rainy season to accompany Kofi to the riverbank for gold panning.
False
Kofi's cousin keeps his wrongdoing a secret, leading to no punishment from his maame.
False
Kofi's grandfather, Nana Mosi, is known for his exceptional skills in swimming.
False
Kofi's friend Ebo encourages him to defy the warnings and swim in the river at nighttime.
False
Kofi's maame plans to forgive him when his father returns from mining.
False
Kofi's father invented a shovel for gold panning purposes.
True
The story mainly focuses on Kofi's experiences at the river, neglecting other aspects of his life.
False
Kofi's brother, Kwasi, advises him to use physical strength instead of his mind when facing challenges.
False
The text provides a detailed insight into the cultural aspects of Kofi's village life.
True
Kofi's father spends two full days panning for gold along the riverbanks during the rainy season.
True
Kofi's maame is portrayed as a lenient and understanding figure in the story.
False
The story emphasizes the significance of the game Oware in Kofi's family dynamics.
True
The protagonist is scolded for speaking Twi instead of English and is caned by Mr. Goodluck Phillip
True
The protagonist receives a blue-and-white kente cloth from their mother for a festival
False
The family harvests ripe yams and prepares for the annual Kings Festival at Bayere
True
The Kings Festival includes no school, Anansi plays, kente costumes, drumming, and competitions
True
The festival also involves honoring the departed, prayers, speeches, and remembering a big war
True
A story of a war between Upper and Lower Kwanta is recounted, leading to the Bambara Treaty
True
The Bambara Treaty ensures perpetual peace, fair gold distribution, and an annual festival
True
There is a dispute between the protagonist's cousin and Ama regarding the status of Lower Kwanta
True
The cousin boasts about their family's possession of gold and a big gun for protection
True
Ama responds with a mocking proverb, causing the cousin to physically attack the protagonist
True
The protagonist is physically assaulted by the cousin, leading to a moment of conflict and tension in the story
True
The festival at Bayere is an annual event
True
Kofi's punishment for speaking Twi is to stay after school and read Shakespeare, a task he secretly enjoys.
True
Mr. Goodluck Phillip was not sent to a missionary school.
False
Ama works as a house girl for her uncle's family in exchange for food and shelter.
True
Kofi's best friend, Ebo, leads a group of youngsters searching for gold specks after heavy rainfall.
True
Nana Mosi, the village storyteller, begins his tales from the beginning.
False
Kofi's older brother, Kwasi, disagrees with Mr. Phillip's belief about English.
False
Ama treats Kofi's bruise with a green leaf to show her care and concern for him.
True
The story captures the tension between traditional ways and the imposition of foreign language and customs.
True
Mr. Phillip instructs Kofi on proper English pronunciation and criticizes his efforts.
False
The protagonist, Kofi Offin, is a teacher in a village school.
False
The text is rich in cultural details, showcasing the daily life, struggles, and relationships in the village.
True
Kofi is punished for answering a question in English instead of Twi.
False
Kofi is known for his exceptional skills in swimming.
True
The festival at Bayere is a one-time event.
False
Mr. Goodluck Phillip was sent to a missionary school.
False
The protagonist receives a red-and-white kente cloth from their mother for a festival.
False
True or false: The protagonist wins the swimming competition and teases Ebo
True
True or false: Ama expresses concern about the protagonist's brother and shares a cultural practice
True
True or false: The boys spy on the girls by the river and are discovered by Ama
True
True or false: The boys catch a fish in the river and engage in a swimming competition
True
True or false: The boys imitate Mr. Phillip's foreign language and have a lighthearted moment
True
True or false: The story ends with an exchange about speaking English like a goat and the quality of the Queen's English
True
True or false: Little Kofi challenges the protagonist to a swimming contest
True
True or false: The protagonist and Ebo discuss the upcoming swimming race and find a taami tree
True
True or false: A conversation ensues between the boys and Ama, who questions their presence
True
True or false: The narrator's grandson got his name because he stopped crying as he floated off like a ship inching toward the horizon
False
True or false: The foreigners came as invaders disguised as enemies, pretending to be students of the people's way
False
True or false: The Offin River flows into the mighty Pra, which then travels over one hundred and fifty miles down to the Coast, where it drains into the Big Sea
False
True or false: The women’s wrestling match ends with a brawler from Upper using her long legs to tackle and flip her opponent, winning the match and receiving rewards.
True
True or false: Kofi nervously offers nuts to a girl while trying to talk to her.
True
True or false: The naming tradition in the village is explained, with people having first names based on the day they were born and extra names for their spirit.
True
True or false: Kofi is challenged to a swim contest by Ebo, and his cousin taunts him, setting a race for seven days later.
True
True or false: Bonsu, a fighter from Lower Kwanta, is the favorite in the wrestling contest due to his previous victories and imposing stature.
True
True or false: The wrestling contest features twelve young men from Upper and Lower villages, with intense cheering and insults from the crowd. The first opponents start circling each other.
True
True or false: The text depicts the vibrant atmosphere of the African village, with traditional wrestling matches and the dynamics of village life.
True
True or false: The text mainly focuses on Kofi's experiences at the river, neglecting other aspects of his life.
False
True or false: The protagonist, Kofi Offin, is a teacher in a village school.
False
True or false: The story emphasizes the significance of the game Oware in Kofi's family dynamics.
False
True or false: The protagonist's conversation with Mr. Phillip reveals the teacher's aspirations for the protagonist's future.
True
True or false: Ama treats Kofi's bruise with a green leaf to show her care and concern for him.
True
Kwasi accidentally kills Yaw, the heir to the throne, during the Kings Festival wrestling contest.
True
The drum is emphasized as the heartbeat of the village, used for communication, entertainment, and cultural rituals.
True
Kwasi is ultimately spared from punishment for Yaw's death by the joint Council of Elders.
True
Papa remains hopeful that the situation will eventually calm down despite the tension.
True
The school environment is strict, with students facing consequences for minor infractions.
True
The feast to honor Kwasi's acquittal is overshadowed by his illness and absence.
True
The text concludes with a reference to 'Henry VI, Part 3' and a scene at the school where students are disciplined for breaking rules.
True
Yaw's family fears retribution, with the compound being guarded by armed men.
True
Lower's King and elders express outrage and accusations of injustice, threatening retaliation.
True
The Council ultimately decides that Yaw's death was an unfortunate accident, sparing Kwasi from punishment.
True
Kwasi is visibly shaken and remorseful, unsure of his fate after the tragic incident.
True
The atmosphere at the feast to honor Kwasi's acquittal is overshadowed by his illness and absence.
True
Prince Yaw Boateng wins the wrestling match by squeezing his opponent until he faints
True
The narrator's brother employs strategy and outsmarts his opponents with takedowns in the wrestling tournament
True
Bonsu defeats Prince Yaw Boateng in the wrestling match
True
Kwasi faces the heartless giant, Bonsu, in the final match
True
Prince Yaw surprises the crowd and Kwasi with his spryness in the final match
True
Kwasi teaches the narrator a lesson about humility through a game of Oware and a bowl of boiled plantains
True
Kwasi dodges Prince Yaw's attacks and trades shots until the Prince grows annoyed in their rematch
True
The wrestling tournament ends with a tense showdown between Kwasi and Prince Yaw, leaving the outcome uncertain
True
Kwasi faces Prince Yaw in a rematch and ultimately wins the match
False
Bonsu suffers a severe injury, rendering him unable to walk, leading to the need for a replacement or forfeit
True
Kwasi, with both fists clenched, lunges at Prince Yaw, and they engage in a fierce battle
True
Kwasi's family celebrates his success in reaching the final match of the wrestling tournament
True
Kwasi challenges Kofi to a swimming race and taunts him, setting a race for seven days later.
False
The protagonist wins the swimming competition and teases Ebo.
True
The boys spy on the girls by the river and are discovered by Ama.
False
The protagonist, Kofi Offin, is a teacher in a village school.
False
Kofi practices a new swimming technique called the 'fish kick' and impresses his friend Ebo
True
Kofi is preparing for his initiation into manhood and plans to perform a praise song
True
Kofi is smitten with Ama and makes a special gift for her while she washes clothes
True
Kofi is captivated by Ama and wishes he could walk with her
True
Kofi is infatuated with Ama and plans to celebrate his mother's 'born day' with a special gift
True
Kofi's maame is portrayed as a lenient and understanding figure in the story
False
The protagonist, Kofi Offin, is a teacher in a village school
False
Kofi's punishment for speaking Twi is to stay after school and read Shakespeare, a task he secretly enjoys
True
Kofi's father spends two full days panning for gold along the riverbanks during the rainy season
False
Ama expresses concern about the protagonist's brother and shares a cultural practice
True
Ama works as a house girl for her uncle's family in exchange for food and shelter
True
Kofi's cousin keeps his wrongdoing a secret, leading to no punishment from his maame
False
True or false: Nana Mosi believes rivers are sacred spaces where ancestors dwell to assist during times of need?
True
True or false: The boy searches for his missing brother, Ebo?
True
True or false: The initiation in the story involves shaving hair, marking the body with symbols, and enduring harsh trials?
True
True or false: The boy is captured and taken to a gated village during a storm?
True
True or false: The narrative delves into themes of tradition, identity, and coming of age?
True
True or false: The story is set in a village with a strong connection to nature and ancestral beliefs?
True
True or false: The boy reminisces about a time after school with Ebo and Ama at the river?
True
True or false: The narrative is filled with suspense and a sense of impending danger?
True
True or false: The story of the initiation is described as a transition from boy to manhood?
True
True or false: The boy runs through the woods in fear when gunshots ring out?
True
True or false: In the dark, the boy realizes this is not a dream and finds himself in big trouble?
True
True or false: The boy is held captive by a tall, shadowy figure with a machete?
True
Kwasi plans to leave Upper Kwanta for a new life as a kente weaver
True
Nana Mosi advises letting go of anger and hurt when the moon is half-bright
True
Kwasi plans to leave without telling Maame
True
Kofi races against Kwasi and reminisces about a story of rivalry
True
The text depicts the challenges of brotherly bonds and growing up in Upper Kwanta
True
Kofi struggles with the pressure to win against his cousin
True
Kofi's best friend, Ebo, leads a group of youngsters searching for gold specks after heavy rainfall
False
The family harvests ripe yams and prepares for the annual Kings Festival at Bayere
False
The protagonist enjoys swimming and reflecting in the serene, clear waters of the secluded spot
False
The story emphasizes the significance of the game Oware in Kofi's family dynamics
True
Ama treats Kofi's bruise with a green leaf to show her care and concern for him
False
The protagonist's conversation with Mr. Phillip reveals the teacher's aspirations for the protagonist's future
False
True or false: The protagonist's brother, Kwasi, is troubled by guilt over an accident.
True
True or false: The adults discuss the history of their people trading gold for goods and the arrival of new traders with magical guns.
True
True or false: The protagonist's father and Nana Mosi discuss the need to tell the boy what he needs to know.
True
True or false: The narrative is filled with symbolism and foreshadowing, creating a sense of mystery and anticipation for the boy's journey.
True
True or false: The story emphasizes the importance of patience, courage, and knowing one's heart.
True
True or false: The protagonist's father advises him on patience and courage when he struggles in the water.
True
True or false: The 'wonderfuls' are described as wanting bone and blood, causing confusion for the protagonist.
True
True or false: The protagonist receives advice from Nana Mosi and is encouraged to think of a proper gift for his birthday.
True
True or false: The story hints at untold secrets in the community's history and the protagonist's growing curiosity.
True
True or false: The protagonist spends the day with his father and Nana Mosi, visiting the market, carvers, and learning to shoot arrows.
True
True or false: The protagonist asks about his cousin and the 'wonderfuls,' but his questions are deflected by the adults.
True
True or false: The Crying Water and a Boy's Journey depicts the vibrant atmosphere of the African village, with traditional wrestling matches and the dynamics of village life.
False
Two Fish is planning to poison the protagonist with the tea.
False
The narrator swallows the sweet past to soothe the bitter present.
True
The narrator believes that they and their fellow prisoners are being held for various reasons, including debts, war, and revenge.
True
The narrator hears the heavy rattle of rain dropping, the thundering thud of trees falling, and the blistering crack of wood breaking.
True
The narrator's brother willingly accepts the force-feeding by the captors
False
The captors allow the narrator's brother to be celebrated or remembered after his death
False
The narrator seeks help and guidance from the ancestors and Nana Mosi while in captivity
True
The narrator reminisces about his family and past life while in captivity
True
The story includes a tale about a talking goat at a wedding ceremony
True
Two Fish helps the narrator and others escape from captivity
True
The captors catch the narrator and the other captives after they escape
False
The narrator and the other captives make a daring escape, following Two Fish to freedom
True
The captors wake up just in time to prevent the escape of the narrator and the other captives
False
The narrator's escape plan involves overpowering the captors during a meal
False
The captors' brutal treatment leads to the death of the narrator's brother
True
The captors fall asleep after a meal, providing an opportunity for escape
True
Osei is injured while escaping through the bush and rocky springs.
True
The captors demand Two Fish's gun and ultimately shoot him in the leg.
True
The group is taken to a sinister-looking castle, greeted by severed heads on spikes.
True
The captors refer to the castle as the new home for the captured group.
True
The captors, known as 'The Wonderfuls,' display a disturbing and savage demeanor.
True
The group, now bound and bruised, awaits an uncertain fate at the hands of their captors.
True
The captors converse with two tall guards in a foreign language, receiving fruit as a reward.
True
Two Fish is brutally killed by the captors, with his face unrecognizable from the gunshots.
True
The group is pursued by captors, and Two Fish is injured, forcing the group to slow down.
True
Two Fish speaks out against the captors, displaying boldness and defiance.
True
The captors demand Two Fish's gun and mock him, ultimately shooting him in the leg.
True
The group is met with a scene of horror and brutality at the castle entrance.
True
True or false: War Horn and Crocodile bring captives to the castle for negotiation and trade with red-coated men
True
True or false: The red coats agree to the trade and take half of the requested items, keeping a 'useless cripple'
True
True or false: The Governor of the castle inflicts cruel and painful punishments on the captives
True
True or false: The captives are doused with palm oil, given water to drink, and measured from head to toe
True
True or false: Owu and the protagonist are thrown into a dark, filthy dungeon
True
True or false: The protagonist sees blurred faces, including children and a dark lady, in the dungeon
True
True or false: The dark lady reassures the protagonist and Owu, warning them about the 'wonderfuls' who bring misery and destruction
True
True or false: The 'wonderfuls' do not respect the captives' origins, traditions, or natural resources
True
True or false: The captives are mistreated and seen as shadows to be stepped on by the 'wonderfuls'
True
True or false: The castle is portrayed as a place of misery and destruction rather than a symbol of anything good
True
True or false: The protagonist has a dream about a slaughtered bull and a conversation with a dark lady
True
True or false: The Governor of the castle agrees to release the captives without any conditions
False
True or false: The narrator is in a dungeon with over 100 children and women being taken and not returning
True
True or false: Afua and the narrator share a moment of healing through storytelling and reminiscing about happier times
True
True or false: A tale is recounted about a talking goat named Nimdee, whose silence leads to the rejection of a marriage proposal
True
True or false: The narrator describes his best friend Ebo and Ama, a resilient and wise captive in the dungeon
False
True or false: The text expresses themes of captivity, loss, and moments of respite and hope within a dark and oppressive environment
True
True or false: A fellow captive named Owu finds solace in sleeping on Afua's lap
False
True or false: The text depicts distractions from the agony of captivity, including a toothache and the care of a fellow captive named Owu
True
True or false: The mysterious disappearance of captives is not mentioned in the text
False
True or false: The talking goat named Nimdee leads to the acceptance of a marriage proposal
False
True or false: The protagonist's name is Kofi Offin
False
True or false: The narrator finds solace in sleeping on Afua's lap
False
True or false: The text mentions the significance of storytelling within the narrator's people
True
True or false: The narrator in the text is searching for his lost loves in dreams each nightfall?
True
True or false: The men with no color fill their bottles with brown spirits from large barrels and play loud drinking games?
True
True or false: The men with no color, who do not pass out, each drag a girl from the protagonist's cage on night nineteen?
True
True or false: The protagonist falls asleep carrying Kwasi's face in their heart on night eight?
True
Kofi's absolute favorite Ghanaian dish is called Red Red, made with black-eyed peas and red palm oil.
True
The Adinkra symbol 'Sankofa' represents the idea that we should learn from the past to progress positively in the future.
True
The Cape Coast Castle was built by the Swedish and later used by the British as a holding prison for kidnapped Africans.
True
The Adinkra symbol 'Mpatapo' symbolizes peacemaking after strife and reconciliation.
True
The literal translation of the Adinkra symbol 'Bese Saka' is 'a sack of cola nuts', and it symbolizes power, abundance, and unity.
True
The Adinkra symbol 'Funtunfunefu-Denkyemfunefu' depicts two crocodiles sharing one stomach, representing cooperation and democracy.
True
The Adinkra symbol 'Nkyinkyim' symbolizes the idea that life's journey is often a twisted and tortuous journey requiring resilience and versatility.
True
The Adinkra symbol 'Epa' symbolizes bondage, captivity, law, and justice, with the literal translation being 'handcuffs'.
True
The Adinkra symbol 'Aya' represents endurance and resourcefulness, symbolized by the hardy fern.
True
The literal translation of the Adinkra symbol 'Bin Nka Bi' is 'No one should bite the other', representing peace and harmony.
True
The largest river out of the three principal rivers in Ghana is the Pra River, with a length of 149 miles.
True
The city of Kumasi is celebrated as the center of Asante culture in southern Ghana.
True
True or false: The narrator tries to stop the capture of Afua but is knocked down and loses consciousness.
True
True or false: The passage describes a shipwreck and the protagonist's struggle for survival at sea.
True
True or false: In a dream, the narrator imagines being saved by black birds, while everyone else is taken away.
True
True or false: The protagonist witnesses the sinking of the ship and the drowning of many people, including children and chained men.
True
True or false: Afua stages a mutiny, causing chaos and ultimately jumping overboard to her death.
True
True or false: The story emphasizes the importance of family ties and the urgency to escape the storm.
True
True or false: The ship is in disarray, and the men with no color are in a state of panic, screaming to abandon ship.
True
True or false: The text includes information about the publisher, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, and their social media accounts.
False
True or false: The author acknowledges the influence of a mentor and the inspiration for the book from their experiences in Ghana.
True
True or false: The sea is described as a raging monster, and the situation becomes increasingly desperate as the ship is battered by the storm.
True
True or false: The passage conveys the author's deep connection to African history and the motivation to share the truth about the history of African Americans.
True
True or false: Afua tells the narrator that the men below are preparing to revolt and encourages the narrator to stand tall and believe in their freedom.
True
True or false: The narrator is left feeling lost and hopeless, counting the days and mourning the loss of loved ones.
True
True or false: The protagonist and his cousin decide to follow the direction of a bird and attempt to 'fly' out of the situation.
True
True or false: The storm intensifies, leading to a violent collision with the sea and the ship beginning to sink.
True
True or false: The acknowledgments section highlights the author's upbringing and early exposure to African history and culture through literature and storytelling.
True
True or false: The narrator questions the possibility of escape, and Afua's behavior becomes increasingly defiant.
True
True or false: Personal experiences of visiting Africa and the impact of these visits on the author's soul are described.
True
True or false: The situation on the ship becomes increasingly dire, and Afua is despondent.
True
True or false: The author reflects on the long process of thinking about the book before writing it and expresses optimism.
True
True or false: The protagonist hears a call for help and sees his cousin among the wreckage, leading to a plan for escape.
True
True or false: The narrator and the other captives make a daring escape, following Two Fish to freedom.
False
True or false: The captors demand Two Fish's gun and ultimately shoot him in the leg.
False
True or false: The author expresses gratitude to their parents for instilling a strong sense of African heritage in them.
True
True or false: The American School in London provided a residency that allowed the author time and creative space to work on their book.
True
True or false: The Twi language is spoken by the Akan people in southern Ghana, with the Asante people being a part of the Akan and speaking Twi.
True
True or false: The Twi alphabet consists of twenty-two letters, including two unique letters, ɛ and ɔ, not found in the English alphabet.
True
True or false: The author provides insights into Ghanaian culture and traditions, including the significance of certain words, greetings, and traditional garments like kente cloth.
True
True or false: The glossary includes translations and explanations of various Twi words, such as 'aboa' (animal), 'akwaaba' (welcome), 'kenkey' (West African dish), and 'nana' (gender-neutral title representing the highest office in society).
True
True or false: The captives are mistreated and seen as shadows to be stepped on by the 'wonderfuls' in the story.
False
True or false: The captors catch the narrator and the other captives after they escape.
False
True or false: The captors refer to the castle as the new home for the captured group.
True
True or false: The narrator believes that they and their fellow prisoners are being held for various reasons, including debts, war, and revenge.
True
True or false: Kofi's best friend, Ebo, leads a group of youngsters searching for gold specks after heavy rainfall.
True
True or false: The foreigners came as invaders disguised as enemies, pretending to be students of the people's way.
False
True or false: The cousin physically attacks the protagonist, asserting his dominance.
True
Study Notes
The Village Storyteller
- Nana Mosi, the village storyteller, begins his tales in the middle, speaking slowly and deliberately about the past, leaving the audience hanging on his every word.
- The protagonist, Kofi Offin, is a student in a village school.
- Kofi is punished for answering a question in Twi instead of English, enduring physical punishment from the teacher, Mr. Goodluck Phillip.
- Mr. Goodluck Phillip was sent to a missionary school and insists on propagating the village with "better education and improved language."
- Kofi's older brother, Kwasi, shares Mr. Phillip's belief that English is essential for becoming learned individuals.
- Kofi's punishment for speaking Twi is to stay after school and read Shakespeare, a task he secretly enjoys.
- Ama, Kofi's friend, has faced hardship and now works as a house girl for her uncle's family in exchange for food and shelter.
- After their reading sessions, Mr. Phillip instructs Kofi on proper English pronunciation and compliments his efforts.
- Kofi's best friend, Ebo, leads a group of youngsters searching for gold specks after heavy rainfall.
- Ama helps Kofi by treating his bruise with a green leaf, showing her care and concern for him.
- The text is rich in cultural details, showcasing the daily life, struggles, and relationships in the village.
- The story captures the tension between traditional ways and the imposition of foreign language and customs.
Wrestling Tournament Drama
- Prince Yaw Boateng, a show-off fighter and nephew of the King of Lower Kwanta, overwhelms his opponent with a war song and wins by squeezing him until he faints
- The narrator's brother employs strategy and outsmarts his opponents with takedowns to secure three victories in the wrestling tournament
- The narrator's family celebrates the brother's success in reaching the final match, but there's concern about facing the heartless giant, Bonsu
- Bonsu defeats Prince Yaw Boateng in the match, displaying dominance and control
- Kwasi, the narrator's brother, faces the heartless giant, Bonsu, and remains confident despite the odds
- Bonsu suffers a severe injury, rendering him unable to walk, leading to the need for a replacement or forfeit
- Kwasi faces Prince Yaw Boateng in the final match, with the prize of ten Benda of gold for the winner
- Prince Yaw surprises the crowd and even Kwasi with his spryness, ultimately defeating Kwasi and winning the match
- Kwasi teaches the narrator a lesson about humility through a game of Oware and a bowl of boiled plantains
- Kwasi faces Prince Yaw in a rematch, dodging his attacks and trading shots until the Prince grows annoyed
- Kwasi, with both fists clenched, lunges at Prince Yaw, and they engage in a fierce battle
- The wrestling tournament ends with a tense showdown between Kwasi and Prince Yaw, leaving the outcome uncertain
The Crying Water and a Boy's Journey
- The Offin River was cursed and many people disappeared, taken under the black sky and unborn
- The protagonist spends the day with his father and Nana Mosi, visiting the market, carvers, and learning to shoot arrows
- The protagonist struggles in the water and his father advises him on patience and courage
- The protagonist asks about his cousin and the "wonderfuls," but his questions are deflected by the adults
- The protagonist's brother, Kwasi, is troubled by guilt over an accident
- The adults discuss the history of their people trading gold for goods and the arrival of new traders with magical guns
- The "wonderfuls" are described as wanting bone and blood, causing confusion for the protagonist
- The protagonist receives advice from Nana Mosi and is encouraged to think of a proper gift for his birthday
- The story hints at untold secrets in the community's history and the protagonist's growing curiosity
- The story emphasizes the importance of patience, courage, and knowing one's heart
- The protagonist's father and Nana Mosi discuss the need to tell the boy what he needs to know
- The narrative is filled with symbolism and foreshadowing, creating a sense of mystery and anticipation for the boy's journey
Captivity and Hope in a Dark Dungeon
- The narrator is in a dungeon with other captives and has witnessed over 100 children and women being taken and not returning
- Afua, a fellow captive, shares her background and experiences in the dungeon, including the abduction of young girls and the mysterious disappearance of captives
- The narrator finds distractions from the agony of captivity, including a toothache and the care of a fellow captive named Owu
- Afua and the narrator share a moment of healing through storytelling and reminiscing about happier times
- A tale is recounted about a talking goat named Nimdee, whose silence leads to the rejection of a marriage proposal
- Owu, a fellow captive, finds solace in sleeping on Afua's lap and the narrator shares stories about his people and the significance of storytelling
- The narrator describes his best friend Ebo and Ama, a resilient and wise captive in the dungeon
- The text expresses themes of captivity, loss, and moments of respite and hope within a dark and oppressive environment
Acknowledgments and Twi Glossary Summary
- The author expresses gratitude to numerous individuals, including their agent, writing assistant, friends, lawyers, former colleagues, and publishing professionals, for their support and inspiration throughout their writing journey.
- The author also acknowledges the American School in London for providing a residency that allowed them time and creative space to work on their book.
- The author thanks their editor, Margaret Raymo, and other professionals at Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for their contributions to sharing the story with the world.
- The book, "The Door of No Return," is described as the saga of an African family, and the author dedicates it to their loved ones, particularly their daughter and family members.
- The author provides a glossary of Twi words and phrases, explaining their meanings and cultural significance.
- The Twi language is spoken by the Akan people in southern Ghana, with the Asante people being a part of the Akan and speaking Twi.
- The Twi alphabet consists of twenty-two letters, including two unique letters, ɛ and ɔ, not found in the English alphabet.
- The glossary includes translations and explanations of various Twi words, such as "aboa" (animal), "akwaaba" (welcome), "kenkey" (West African dish), and "nana" (gender-neutral title representing the highest office in society).
- The author shares personal connections to some of the glossary entries, such as childhood memories of singing a Ghanaian children's song with their mother and abbreviating a phrase to signify bravery.
- Through the glossary, the author provides insights into Ghanaian culture and traditions, including the significance of certain words, greetings, and traditional garments like kente cloth.
- The glossary also includes explanations of cultural practices, such as the historical use of cowrie shells as currency in Africa and the significance of the Benda as a unit of weight for measuring gold dust among the Asante people.
- Overall, the acknowledgments and Twi glossary provide a glimpse into the author's personal and cultural influences, as well as the support network that contributed to the creation of their book.
Test your knowledge of African literature with questions based on captivating stories like 'The Village Storyteller', 'Wrestling Tournament Drama', 'The Crying Water and a Boy's Journey', and 'Captivity and Hope in a Dark Dungeon'. Explore themes of culture, tradition, resilience, and historical narratives in these engaging texts.
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