Book Review: "My Name is Yedia" by Coumba Toure and Illustrated by Beatrice Mutasah
"My Name is Yedia" is a heartwarming and empowering children's book that shines a much-needed spotlight on women and girls with disabilities in Senegal. Written by Coumba Toure and beautifully illustrated by Beatrice Mutasah, this book serves as both an inspirational tale and an educational tool, making it a significant contribution to the field of disability rights literature.
The story follows Yedia, a spirited young girl in a wheelchair, as she dreams about her future. Through Yedia's narrative, readers are introduced to remarkable women with disabilities from Senegal, termed "invisible giants'' for their impactful, yet often unrecognized, contributions to their communities. These women include Binta Sarr, a formidable activist and hydraulic engineer who dedicated her life to supporting rural and marginalized women, eventually founding the Association for the Advancement of Senegalese Women (APROFES).
One of the book’s most powerful messages is the depiction of women with disabilities in a wide range of professions—shoemaker, hairdresser, businesswoman, and engineer—demonstrating that no dream is out of reach.
"My Name is Yedia" is part of the larger "Invisible Giants" project, which aims to highlight extraordinary women who are quietly yet profoundly influencing social change. This project is a celebration of dedication and activism at the grassroots level, showcasing women from various regions in Senegal and the African diaspora who are driving development and progress within their communities.
The illustrations by Beatrice Mutasah complement the narrative perfectly, providing vibrant and inclusive visuals that bring Yedia's world to life. The artwork captures the essence of the characters and their environments, making the story accessible and engaging for children.
The book closes with a powerful image of Yedia declaring, "hey, or I can fly," leaving readers with a lasting impression of her unbreakable spirit and limitless potential.
"My Name is Yedia" is more than just a children's book; it is a testament to the resilience and strength of women with disabilities. It underscores the importance of visibility and recognition for all contributors to societal progress, regardless of physical ability. This book is an excellent resource for teaching children about inclusivity, empowerment, and the limitless potential within everyone.
Review by Sydney Leigh Smith
This book is published by Kuumbati and can be purchased online at: https://kuumbati.com/produit/my-name-is-yedia/. Kuumbati's mission is to inspire a love of reading and learning in children from an early age by offering a wide selection of interesting and educational books.