Bimwili and the Zimwi

This was my favorite book as a child. I remember checking it out nonstop from the library in elementary school. My mother bought me my own copy when I was in high school, and now I'm able to share it with my son. He loves it. He especially loves the "sound effects" and the song that we made up our own tune for. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anybody.

My 3 1/2 year old loves this book. His 3 1/2 year old friend is frightened by the Zimwi. It is a lively story and evokes many good questions. The illustrations are lovely and depict the rural life of the East African coast well.

Bimwili and the Zimwi Book Review Bimwili and the Zimwi by Verna Aarden is a good book. It is about a green ugly monster named Zimwi and a little girl named Bimwili. My favorite part was when Bimwili's family put sand in the drum and while the monster was fetching water, they got Bimwili back. That was funny!! I learned that you should always keep track of your stuff. My other favorite part was when she sang a song with the shell against her ear. Another favorite part was when they ran away from the big pumpkin. By Josias

Bimwili and the Zimwi is an enchanting and suspenseful story. A small child is captured by an evil magician and rescued by her family. Although it could be frightening to the very young , it provides an excellent catalyst for conversations about personal safety and "listening to one's little voice inside". It also provides a multicultural setting. I highly recommend this title for home or curricular libraries!!

"Bimwili and the Zimwi" is a traditional folktale from Zanzibar. Two sisters go to the beach; the older sister fails to keep an eye on the younger, Bimwili, and Bimwili is abducted by a monster, the Zimwi, who makes her sing while imprisoned in a drum, which he then exhibits as a marvelous "singing drum". Bimwili devises a clever trick to escape and eventually the Zimwi is destroyed. Bimwili's escape makes her the hero. The illustrations add to the story, showing how the Zimwi attracted Bimwili's attention. The story may be a wee bit frightening, but this is very typical of folktales and fairytales the world over (what would Hansel and Gretel be if it weren't a bit scary?, and aren't "watch out for strangers" and "take care of your little sister" good lessons for children?). This is a good book if you're looking for a story from Africa to add to your collection."African Folk Tales" (Dover Children's Thrift Classics) by Hugh Vernon-Jackson (Editor), is also recommended and is a bargain.Please see my reviews of other books about Africa.