Title: The Cooking Contest
Author: Efe Farinre
Year of Publication: 2023
Category: Children’s Book
Efe Farinre’s The Cooking Contest is a delightful and culturally rich children’s book that seamlessly weaves together tradition, folklore, and important moral lessons. Set in the Ibibio land of Nigeria, this engaging tale brings to life a vibrant world of food, music, and values, making it a captivating read for children and adults alike.
Right from the cover, readers are drawn into the story by a vibrant display of traditional delicacies such as pounded yam, leafy vegetables, ground pepper, plantains, and other enticing ingredients, setting the tone for a rich cultural journey. At first glance, the scene hints at an upcoming feast, but a closer look at the expressions of those preparing the food suggests that something unexpected is about to unfold. This clever artistic choice sets the stage for the drama and excitement that follows.
At the heart of the story is the ever troublesome tortoise, a well-known trickster in African folklore. From the moment he appears, readers can sense that mischief is not far behind. True to form, the tortoise stirs up conflict, pushing his usual antics to the limit. However, this time, his actions lead to an unexpected turn of events in a grand cooking contest.
What makes The Cooking Contest stand out is its rich infusion of Ibibio culture. As the contest unfolds, readers are introduced to the traditional dishes of the Ibibio people, gaining insight into their culinary heritage. The story also incorporates Ibibio songs, adding a rhythmic and melodic element that enhances the storytelling experience. Additionally, the characters’ names are authentically Ibibio, further grounding the book in its cultural setting and providing young readers with a meaningful connection to Nigerian heritage.
While the colorful world of food and music keeps readers entertained, the book also delivers an important message. The tortoise, known for his deceptive ways, does not escape the consequences of his actions. His lies and tricks eventually catch up with him, reinforcing the idea that dishonesty and wrongdoing lead to repercussions. This makes The Cooking Contest an excellent tool for teaching children about integrity, responsibility, and the importance of making good choices.
With its engaging storyline, cultural depth, and valuable moral lessons, The Cooking Contest is more than just an entertaining read; it is an educational experience. It offers young readers a window into Ibibio traditions while subtly imparting lessons on ethics and the power of honesty.
Efe Farinre masterfully blends culture, folklore, and life lessons into a story that is both enjoyable and thought-provoking. The Cooking Contest is a must-read for children who love adventure, folklore, and learning about different cultures. With its beautifully crafted narrative and meaningful takeaways, this book proves that stories can be both fun and educational.
About the reviewer
Titilade Oyemade is a business executive in a leading organisation and holds a degree in Russian Language. She’s the convener of the Hangoutwithtee Ladies Event and the publisher of Hangoutwithtee magazine. She spends her weekends attending women conferences, events and book readings. She loves to have fun and to help other women have the same in their lives. Email: titi.oyemade@gmail.com Social: @tiipreeofficial
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