Jollof Day
Ages 3–6
Picture Book
Esi the Brave
The Kirkus-starred picture book that teaches kids bravery doesn't mean not being scared
by Bernard K. Mensah · illustrated by Raissa Figueroa
PublisherDial Books (Penguin Random House)
Age Range4–8
Formathardcover
ISBN978-0593406410
IllustratorRaissa Figueroa
Year2024
Available at
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Esi is a brave Ghanaian girl who loves monsters and ghosts and things that go bump in the night. When her family goes to the Kakamotobi Festival — a vibrant masquerade celebration in Winneba, Ghana — Esi insists she's not afraid of anything. But when the festival's masked dancers surround her and she gets separated from Mummy and Daddy, Esi must find real courage to face the swirling, twirling monsters and demand her parents back. A joyful celebration of bravery, Ghanaian festivals, and the moment a child discovers what being truly brave means.
Perfect for
Bedtime read-alouds (5–10 minutes)Teaching bravery without lecturingGhanaian heritage familiesFestival and celebration classroom topicsKS1 PSHE themes: courage and resilience
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What People Are Saying
“Mensah's onomatopoeia-laced narrative is a delight… A monstrously good time.”
“This cinematic picture book about conquering fear is sure to be a favorite read aloud.”
“My daughter kept saying, 'Esi did it even though she was scared.' That line seemed to stick with her long after we'd finished the book.”
“Read this with my Year 1 class. The children were desperate to talk about which parts they would have found scary.”
“Bought this for my granddaughter. We ended up reading it twice in one visit.”
