250 Questions
What did the river Offin carry on its shoulders at the first breath of the boy?
The boy's fifth child
Where does the river Offin flow into?
The mighty Pra
What did the foreigners disguised as friends pretend to be?
Students of our way
What did the river Offin hold the boy like?
A mother cradles a baby
What leads to a confrontation between the protagonist's cousin and the protagonist?
The protagonist engages in a physical battle with his cousin to defend Ama's honor, unintentionally causing injury.
What does Mr. Phillip emphasize to the protagonist and his classmates?
The importance of education and culture.
What does Mr. Phillip encourage the protagonist to focus on?
Education and learning the Queen's language.
Where does the protagonist find solace and engage in diving and swimming?
In a secluded spot by the river.
What does the protagonist contemplate while at the secluded spot by the river?
The beauty of nature and the tranquility of the surroundings.
What does the protagonist recall about a near-death experience?
A moment of almost drowning in the river.
What is the nature of the protagonist's relationship with his cousin?
Competitive and contentious.
Who does the protagonist rush to meet at the river?
His friend Ebo for a casual gathering.
What does the protagonist receive from Mr. Phillip at the river?
A stern reprimand for his behavior.
What does the protagonist and his cousin's physical battle result in?
A damaged relationship between the two.
What does the protagonist find in the serene, clear waters of the secluded spot?
Peace and solace through diving and swimming.
What does Mr. Phillip emphasize as crucial for the protagonist's future?
Education and learning the Queen's language.
What is the central symbol of the river in the story?
Freedom and tradition
What traditional game is Kofi's older brother, Kwasi, unbeatable at?
Oware
Where does Kofi's father spend his days while away mining?
Panning for gold along the riverbanks
What does the river symbolize in the story?
Freedom and tradition
What themes are highlighted in the narrative?
Friendship, family, tradition, and coming of age
What do Kofi's conversations with Ebo and Kwasi provide insight into?
His relationships, aspirations, and daily life
What is the protagonist's name in the story?
Kofi
Who encourages Kofi to express his feelings for Ama?
Ebo
What kind of location does Kofi consider the river to be for him?
Hideout and oasis
Where is the story set?
Ghana
What does the narrative reflect?
The challenges and adventures of a young boy growing up in a Ghanaian village
What do the protagonist's interactions with family members provide a glimpse into?
The dynamics of the household and the community
What event leads to physical violence in the story?
The dispute between the protagonist's cousin and Ama regarding the status of Lower Kwanta
What is the purpose of the Bambara Treaty?
To ensure perpetual peace, fair gold distribution, and an annual festival
What does the protagonist receive from their mother for a festival?
An orange-and-red kente cloth
What leads to the protagonist being caned by Mr. Goodluck Phillip?
Speaking Twi instead of English
What is part of the Kings Festival at Bayere?
Anansi plays, kente costumes, drumming, and competitions
What does the cousin boast about during the dispute?
Family's possession of gold and a big gun for protection
What is the purpose of the festival's activities?
Honoring the departed, prayers, speeches, and remembering a big war
What is recounted during the festival, leading to the Bambara Treaty?
A story of a war between Upper and Lower Kwanta
What language does the protagonist get scolded for speaking?
Twi
What does Ama respond with during the dispute?
A mocking proverb
What leads to the annual Kings Festival at Bayere?
The family harvesting ripe yams
What is the purpose of the dispute between the protagonist's cousin and Ama?
Regarding the status of Lower Kwanta
What is the name of the village storyteller in the text?
Nana Mosi
What is the name of Kofi's friend who works as a house girl after her parents' death?
Ama
What is the name of Kofi's teacher who enforces English language and culture?
Goodluck Kwaku Phillip
What activity is Kofi punished with for speaking Twi?
Stay after school and learn English literature
Who leads a group of youngsters in search of gold specks after heavy rainfall?
Ebo
What does Ama use to care for Kofi's injuries?
Traditional remedies
What is the primary theme of the story?
Clash between traditional African culture and English language imposition
What language does Kofi's teacher enforce on the students?
English
What does Kofi's friend, Ebo, lead a group of youngsters in search of after heavy rainfall?
Gold specks
What does Kofi secretly enjoy while staying after school for punishment?
Learning English literature
What does the protagonist, Kofi, face challenges with in school?
Enforcement of English language and culture
What does the story highlight about Kofi and Ama's relationship?
Close bond and support through difficult times
What does the festival's activities include?
Honoring the harvest and entertaining the Kings
What does the masked dancer from Upper perform at the festival?
A spider-like routine on his toes
What do the women fighters do during the matches at the festival?
Jump, kick, choke, and try to squeeze victory out of each other
What do the spectators do when the spider-like routine is performed?
Cheer wildly
What is the primary consequence of Kwasi's victory in the wrestling contest?
A stir in the village due to Yaw's accidental death
What is the Council of Elders' decision regarding Kwasi's involvement in Yaw's death?
The killing was an accident and imposes a fine on Upper Kwanta
What is the initial reaction of Lower Kwanta to the Council's decision?
Outrage and accusations of injustice
What is the atmosphere in the village following the Council's decision?
Tense, with references to Shakespeare's Henry VI, Part 3
What event does Kwasi miss due to a stomachache?
The feast held to honor his victory and acquittal
What is the nature of the school environment in the village?
Strict, with students facing consequences for minor infractions
What leads to concerns about facing a heartless giant named Bonsu in the wrestling tournament?
The narrator's brother's success
What is the prize for the winner of the final wrestling match?
Ten Benda of gold
What does the narrator's brother teach a lesson about through a game of Oware?
Humility
What ultimately renders Bonsu unable to walk and forces Lower to replace him in the tournament?
A severe ankle injury
Who surprises everyone with agility and eventually defeats Kwasi in the final wrestling match?
Prince Yaw Boateng
What does the story primarily highlight about the narrator's brother, Kwasi?
His resilience and skill
What does the wrestling tournament emphasize?
Emotional intensity
What does Bonsu display in the tournament?
Dominance and power
What does the narrator's brother draw inspiration from when facing the giant, Bonsu?
Bonsu's severe injury
What is the theme highlighted in the story?
Humility
What does the narrator's brother ultimately demonstrate through the wrestling tournament?
Resilience and skill
What does Kwasi showcase in the final battle against Prince Yaw Boateng?
Resilience and skill
What is the reward for winning the women’s wrestling match?
A ceremonial necklace
What are people's first names based on in the village?
The day they were born
What challenge does Kofi's cousin taunt him with?
A swim contest
What makes Bonsu a favorite in the wrestling contest?
His previous victories and imposing stature
What does Ebo encourage Kofi to do?
Stand up for himself and find his confidence
What is the primary feature of the wrestling contest?
Intense cheering and insults from the crowd
What do people have in addition to their first names based on the day they were born?
Extra names for their spirit
What does Kofi nervously offer to a girl while trying to talk to her?
Nuts
What is the nature of the wrestling match between the women?
Highly aggressive and violent
What does Ebo challenge Kofi to?
A swim contest
What does the text primarily depict?
The dynamics of village life and traditional wrestling matches
What does Ama try to encourage Kofi to do?
Speak Twi and find his confidence
What is the protagonist's reason for challenging Little Kofi to a swimming contest?
To impress Ama and show his bravery
What do the boys do after being discovered by Ama while spying on the girls by the river?
They engage in a conversation with Ama
What cultural practice does Ama share with the protagonist and Ebo?
The significance of the taami tree
What does Ama express concern about regarding the protagonist's brother?
His health and well-being
What do the boys do after catching a fish in the river?
They engage in a swimming competition
What do the boys imitate during a lighthearted moment?
Mr. Phillip's foreign language
What is the nature of the exchange at the end of the story?
A debate about the quality of the Queen's English
What leads to the boys being granted some freedom to talk in class?
Mr. Phillip's absence from the class
What do the boys tease Ebo about after the swimming competition?
His admiration for Ama
What do the boys find by the river while discussing the upcoming swimming race?
A taami tree
What does the protagonist reflect on during the morning assembly?
The foreign history lessons
What does the boys' conversation with Ama reveal about the protagonist's reason for challenging Little Kofi?
To seek Ama's attention
What does the protagonist do after Ebo challenges him to stay underwater longer?
Emerges after a hundred count and teases Ebo about eating a dung beetle
What does the protagonist think about the talking drum sound they hear?
It sounds like it is crying and they should run
What does Ebo imitate, leading the protagonist to burst into laughter?
Kofi Offin speaking like a goat
What does the protagonist compare his swimming to while racing Ebo?
Flying through the water like a black eagle
What advice does Nana Mosi give about letting go of anger and hurt?
When the moon is half-bright
What does Kwasi plan to pursue as a new life in Upper Kwanta?
Kente weaving
What do Kwasi and Kofi encounter in the woods?
A mysterious rope trap
What does Kwasi urge Kofi to do?
Race him to the river
What do Kofi and Kwasi play, ending in a draw?
Oware
What does Kofi struggle with in relation to his cousin?
The pressure to win against his cousin
What do the boys discuss about Kwasi's upcoming event?
A swimming race for a girl's heart
What does Kwasi share details about with Kofi?
A dreaded initiation
What does Kofi reminisce about while racing against Kwasi?
A story of rivalry
What does the text primarily depict?
The challenges of brotherly bonds and growing up in Upper Kwanta
What does Kwasi plan to do without telling Maame?
Leave Upper Kwanta
What does Kwasi emerge from seclusion to do?
Eat a lot and play ball with Kofi
What is Kofi's favorite food?
Red Red
What swimming technique does Kofi practice?
Fish kick
What is Kofi preparing for?
His initiation into manhood
Who gives Kofi tips on improving his swimming technique?
Ama, an older girl
What does Kofi make for Ama?
A special gift
What does Kofi plan to celebrate with a special gift?
His mother's 'born day'
What is the name of Kofi's cousin?
Jojo
What does Kofi doubt his ability to win?
A swimming contest
What does Ama encourage Kofi to do?
Improve his swimming technique
Where does Kofi practice his swimming technique?
In a secluded stream
What does Kofi impress his friend Ebo with?
His new swimming technique
What does Kofi plan to perform for his initiation into manhood?
A praise song
What does the story emphasize the importance of?
Patience, courage, and knowing one's heart
What is the protagonist advised to think of for his birthday?
A proper gift
What is the river Offin described as in the story?
Cursed and associated with mysterious disappearances
What do the 'wonderfuls' in the story want?
Bone and blood
What is the primary theme highlighted in the story?
Mystery and anticipation
What does the protagonist's father and Nana Mosi discuss the need to do?
Tell the boy what he needs to know
What does the protagonist's growing curiosity hint at?
Untold secrets in the community's history
What does the protagonist struggle with in the water?
Fear and uncertainty
What is the protagonist's brother, Kwasi, troubled by?
Guilt over an accident
What is the narrative filled with, creating a sense of mystery and anticipation?
Symbolism and foreshadowing
What do the adults deflect the protagonist's questions about?
His cousin and the 'wonderfuls'
What is the protagonist encouraged to do by Nana Mosi?
Think of a proper gift for his birthday
What are the activities involved in the initiation described in the text?
Shaving hair, marking the body with symbols, and enduring harsh trials
What theme does the narrative primarily delve into?
Tradition, identity, and coming of age
Where does Nana Mosi believe ancestors dwell to assist during times of need?
Rivers
What setting does the story primarily take place in?
A village with a strong connection to nature and ancestral beliefs
What is the atmosphere in the text primarily filled with?
Suspense and a sense of impending danger
What is the protagonist's relationship with his brother Ebo?
He searches for Ebo who is missing
What happens to the protagonist in the dark, leading to a realization that it's not a dream?
He finds himself in big trouble
Who holds the protagonist captive with a machete in the text?
A tall, shadowy figure
What does the narrative describe as a transition from boy to manhood?
The initiation involving traditional practices
What belief does Nana Mosi hold about rivers in the text?
Rivers are sacred spaces where ancestors dwell
What is the protagonist's realization about the situation in the dark?
It is not a dream and he finds himself in big trouble
What is the primary focus of the initiation described in the text?
Transition from boy to manhood
What does the protagonist swallow to soothe their bitter present?
A soothing memory
What sounds does the protagonist hear in the text?
The heavy rattle of rain dropping
What does the protagonist believe about the people in their situation?
They are prisoners, some of war, others of lesser disputes
What does the protagonist think when Two Fish points to the tea?
Maybe he wants to poison me
What ultimately happens to Two Fish?
He is brutally killed by the captors
What do the captors demand from Two Fish?
His gun
Where is the group taken after Two Fish's death?
A sinister-looking castle
What do the captors refer to the castle as?
The new home for the captured group
What is the demeanor of the captors known as 'The Wonderfuls'?
Disturbing and savage
What do the captors receive as a reward after conversing with two tall guards?
Fruit
What happens to Osei while escaping through the bush and rocky springs?
He appears to be injured
What forces the group to slow down while being pursued by captors?
Two Fish's injury
How does Two Fish respond to the captors?
He speaks out against them, displaying boldness and defiance
What do the captors do upon reaching the group at the edge of a cliff?
They catch Two Fish
What greets the group at the castle entrance?
A scene of horror and brutality
What fate awaits the captured group at the castle?
An uncertain fate at the hands of their captors
What does the narrator vow to do once he is free?
Seek vengeance for his brother's murder
What does the narrator do while in captivity?
Pray for help and guidance from the ancestors and Nana Mosi
Who helps the narrator and others escape from captivity?
Two Fish
What do the captors do after a meal, providing an opportunity for escape?
Fall asleep
What does the narrator reflect on while in captivity?
His family and past life
What prevents any form of celebration or remembrance for the narrator's brother, who was killed in captivity?
The captors' actions
What technique does the narrator use to escape from captivity?
Prayer and guidance from ancestors
What do the captors do to force-feed the narrator's brother, who refuses to eat or drink?
Use a metal device
What does the narrator reflect on regarding his family while in captivity?
His family and past life
What is the atmosphere when the captors fall asleep after a meal?
Filled with fear and tension
What does the narrator and the other captives fear before deciding to run for their freedom?
The consequences of escaping
What is the primary focus of the narrator's prayer while in captivity?
Help and guidance from the ancestors and Nana Mosi
What brings distractions from the agony of captivity in the text?
A toothache and the care of a fellow captive named Owu
What is the significance of Nimdee, the talking goat, in the text?
Nimdee's silence leads to the rejection of a marriage proposal
Who finds solace in sleeping on Afua's lap in the text?
Owu, a fellow captive
What themes are expressed in the text?
Captivity, loss, and moments of respite and hope
What do the narrator and Afua share a moment of healing through in the text?
Storytelling and reminiscing about happier times
Who does the narrator describe as a resilient and wise captive in the text?
Ama
What is the name of the fellow captive who shares her background and experiences in the dungeon in the text?
Afua
What does the narrator find distractions from in the text?
The agony of captivity
What is the significance of storytelling in the text?
It provides moments of healing and respite
What does the narrator share stories about in the text?
His people and the significance of storytelling
What is the primary focus of the text?
Captivity and moments of respite and hope within a dark and oppressive environment
What brings a moment of healing for the captives in the text?
Storytelling and reminiscing about happier times
What do the red coats do to the captives?
Examine and torture them
How is the dungeon described in the narrative?
Pitch-black and reeking of human waste
What does the protagonist experience in the dungeon?
Dizziness and hallucinations
What does the dark lady warn the protagonist against?
Making noise
What does the text convey about the situation of the captives?
A sense of despair, fear, and helplessness
What does the narrative highlight about the captives' treatment?
Exploitation, cruelty, and injustice
What do the red coats demand for the captives?
A high price
What do the captives experience before being thrown into the dungeon?
Doused with palm oil and measured
What does the protagonist reflect on regarding the red coats?
Bringing misery and destruction to those who do not resemble them
What emotions are experienced by the captives in the narrative?
Despair, fear, and helplessness
What does the dungeon in the narrative smell like?
Reeking of human waste
What does the protagonist dream about in the dungeon?
A slaughtered bull and a conversation with a dark lady
What does the protagonist do each nightfall?
Search every shadow on Earth
What do the men with no color do on day twelve?
Drop like too-ripe fruit and sleep long into thirteen
What do the men with no color do by the twilight of day nineteen?
Drag a girl from their cage
What does the protagonist carry in their heart when falling asleep on NIGHT EIGHT?
Kwasi’s face
What does the Adinkra symbol Sankofa represent?
Learning from the past to make positive progress in the future
Where is the town of Bonwire located?
Southern Ghana
What does the Adinkra symbol Mpatapo symbolize?
Unity and reconciliation
Which river is the largest out of the three principal rivers in Ghana?
Pra River
What does the Adinkra symbol Funtunfunefu-Denkyemfunefu represent?
Cooperation and democracy
Where is the city of Kumasi located?
Southern Ghana
What does the Adinkra symbol Nkyinkyim symbolize?
Resilience and versatility
Which city is known as the largest city in Ghana?
Akra
What does the Adinkra symbol Epa symbolize?
Bondage and captivity
Where is the Cape Coast located?
Southern Ghana
What does the Adinkra symbol Aya represent?
Endurance and resourcefulness
Where is the Offin River located?
Southern Ghana
What does Afua do to resist captivity?
Stages a mutiny and jumps overboard
How does Kofi feel after Afua's mutiny and subsequent actions?
Utterly alone and desolate
What event leads to chaos and destruction on the ship?
The ship being caught in a violent storm
How is the sea portrayed in the text?
As a relentless and destructive force
What does Kofi witness while held captive on the ship?
Mistreatment and death of fellow captives
What does Afua reveal to Kofi, hinting at a potential revolt among the captives?
Hope and encouragement for Kofi to believe in his freedom
What does Kofi reflect on in relation to the captivity?
The emotional toll of the captivity on himself and his fellow captives
What does the ship ultimately face?
Wrecks and the wrath of the raging sea
What does Afua do during the mutiny?
Uses a dagger to hold a captor at bay
How does Kofi feel after the ship wrecks?
Utterly alone and desolate
What does the text primarily depict the sea as?
A relentless and destructive force
What does Afua use to resist captivity?
A dagger during the mutiny
What does the author express gratitude for in the book?
The protagonist's parents shaping his understanding of African heritage
What did the author describe as a significant influence on his soul and eventual writing of the book?
His visit to Africa in 2012
What did the author describe himself as despite the challenges faced during the writing process?
A hopeful person, filled with fiery optimism
What did the author express gratitude for in making the book possible?
Juanita's significant role
What did the author acknowledge the role of in shaping the protagonist's understanding of African heritage?
African history before 1619
What did the author describe as a three-year contemplation period before writing the book?
The sinking of the ship and struggles of the people on board
What influenced the protagonist's understanding of African heritage according to the author?
The protagonist's parents
What did the author describe as having a significant impact on his soul and eventual writing of the book?
His visit to Africa in 2012
What language is the Twi glossary in?
Akan
How many letters are in the Twi alphabet?
22
What does 'akwaaba' mean in the Twi language?
Welcome
Which group of people speak the Twi language?
Akan
What is the significance of 'nana' in the Twi glossary?
Gender-neutral title representing the highest office in society
What does the Twi word 'kenkey' refer to?
West African dish
What does the Twi word 'aboa' mean?
Animal
Where did the author have a residency to work on their book?
American School in London
Who does the author dedicate the book, 'The Door of No Return,' to?
Their loved ones, particularly their daughter and family members
What does the author provide insights into through the Twi glossary?
Ghanaian culture and traditions
What does the author express gratitude for in the acknowledgments?
Support and inspiration throughout their writing journey
What is the significance of the Little, Brown Books for Young Readers in the acknowledgments?
Contributions to sharing the story with the world
Study Notes
The Village Storyteller
- Nana Mosi, the village storyteller, begins his tales in a deliberate manner, speaking slowly and repeating certain phrases, captivating his audience.
- The protagonist, Kofi, faces challenges in school, including a teacher who enforces English language and culture, and uses physical punishment for speaking Twi, the local language.
- Kofi's teacher, Goodluck Kwaku Phillip, imposes English culture and language on the students, and insists on being called by his Anglicized name.
- Kofi's friend, Ama, faces adversity after her parents' death and works as a house girl in exchange for food and shelter.
- Kofi's punishment for speaking Twi is to stay after school and learn English literature, an activity he secretly enjoys.
- Ama cares for Kofi's injuries using traditional remedies, showcasing her compassion and resourcefulness.
- Kofi's older brother, Kwasi, shares an incident where a classmate was physically punished for speaking Twi in response to the teacher's imposition of English.
- Kofi's teacher, Mr. Phillip, enforces English language and culture, and uses physical punishment for any deviation.
- Kofi's friend, Ebo, leads a group of youngsters in search of gold specks in the streets and ditches after heavy rainfall, highlighting the economic challenges faced by the community.
- Kofi and Ama share a close bond, having known each other since childhood and supporting each other through difficult times.
- The story highlights the clash between traditional African culture and the imposition of English language and culture in a village school.
- The protagonist, Kofi, navigates the challenges of cultural imposition, physical punishment, and economic hardship while finding solace in his friendship with Ama and the wisdom of his village storyteller, Nana Mosi.
A Day at School by Ama Ata Aidoo
- The protagonist reflects on the morning assembly and foreign history lessons
- Mr. Phillip leaves the class, granting the students some freedom to talk
- Little Kofi challenges the protagonist to a swimming contest
- The protagonist and Ebo discuss the upcoming swimming race and find a taami tree
- The boys spy on the girls by the river and are discovered by Ama
- A conversation ensues between the boys and Ama, who questions their presence
- Ama and the boys talk about the swimming race and the protagonist's reason for challenging Little Kofi
- Ama expresses concern about the protagonist's brother and shares a cultural practice
- The boys catch a fish in the river and engage in a swimming competition
- The protagonist wins the swimming competition and teases Ebo
- The boys imitate Mr. Phillip's foreign language and have a lighthearted moment
- The story ends with an exchange about speaking English like a goat and the quality of the Queen's English
The Bridge from Boy to Man
- Nana Mosi believes rivers are sacred spaces where ancestors dwell to assist during times of need
- A boy searches for his brother, Ebo, who is missing
- The boy reminisces about a time after school with Ebo and Ama at the river
- Suddenly, gunshots ring out, and the boy runs through the woods in fear
- In the dark, the boy realizes this is not a dream and finds himself in big trouble
- The story of the initiation is described as a transition from boy to manhood
- The initiation involves shaving hair, marking the body with symbols, and enduring harsh trials
- The boy is captured and taken to a gated village during a storm
- He is held captive by a tall, shadowy figure with a machete
- The text is filled with suspense and a sense of impending danger
- The narrative delves into themes of tradition, identity, and coming of age
- The story is set in a village with a strong connection to nature and ancestral beliefs
"The Transaction" - Summary
- War Horn and Crocodile bring captives to a castle, negotiating with red-coated men for trade.
- The red coats demand a high price for the captives, offering only half of what was requested.
- The red coats examine and torture the captives, branding them with red-hot irons.
- The captives are doused with palm oil and measured before being separated and thrown into a dungeon.
- The dungeon is described as pitch-black, reeking of human waste, and filled with other desperate captives.
- The protagonist experiences dizziness and hallucinations in the dungeon.
- The protagonist has a dream about a slaughtered bull and a conversation with a dark lady.
- The dark lady reassures the protagonist and warns against making noise.
- The protagonist reflects on the red coats bringing misery and destruction to those who do not resemble them.
- The captives are dehumanized and mistreated, highlighting the brutality of the situation.
- The text conveys a sense of despair, fear, and helplessness experienced by the captives.
- The narrative portrays the exploitation, cruelty, and injustice faced by the captives at the hands of the red coats.
Escape from Captivity and a Daring Act of Defiance
- Kofi and Afua are held captive on a ship, witnessing the mistreatment and death of their fellow captives.
- Afua reveals hope to Kofi, hinting at a potential revolt among the captives and encouraging Kofi to believe in his freedom.
- Afua stages a mutiny, using a dagger to hold a captor at bay before ultimately choosing to jump overboard.
- Kofi grapples with the loss of hope and dreams, feeling utterly alone and desolate.
- Kofi reflects on the passage of time and the emotional toll of the captivity on himself and his fellow captives.
- The ship is caught in a violent storm, leading to chaos and destruction.
- The ship ultimately wrecks, with Kofi and the captives facing the wrath of the raging sea.
- The text portrays the sea as a relentless and destructive force, overpowering the ship and its inhabitants.
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.
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