Seven Spools of Thread: A Kwanzaa Story

The story takes place in the West African county of Ghana and is about seven sons of an old man. The sons argue all the time, until their father dies and leaves each one of them a spool of thread. Moreover, they have used the spools of thread to make pot of gold in order to receive their father's inheritance. Thus, the brothers have to stop arguing, use the principle of umoja to decide how they can use the cloth to solve their problem. Furthermore, the brothers use kuumba to weave Kente Cloth, "The Kings Cloth" that so many African Americans wear during ceremonies in the United States. The Kwanzaa Coloring Book

A friend shared this book with me when we were in a discussion of Africa's Kente cloth, woven with bright colors in narrow strips and then sewed into wider fabric. Seven Spools... is a delightful tale well told and beautifully illustrated. The moral lesson of cooperation is clearly shown. I have ordered it to be a great addition to my group of African books for children and adults.

A great book to share and explain Kwanzaa values. I am participating in a library program and this tales of selfishness and unity from an African folklore is a wonderful way to explain the principle of Umoja. The illustrations are beautiful with rich and bold color. This is a story I will never forget.