top of page

The Old Fisherman of Lamu

by Shenaaz Nanji

Set in Lamu, the ancient island town on the east coast of Africa, somewhat north of Mombasa, Kenya.

Mzee, an old fisherman, catches one fish at a time, sells half of what he catches, and appears to be lazy.

Mzungu, a smooth-talking “foreigner”, tries to change his ways – and by his smooth talk proves Mzee the smarter of the two. Most of the unfamiliar words are used in a self-explanatory manner. The story is rhythmic, and the excellent, imaginative black line drawings support the ideas beautifully.

Includes a map and brief notes at the end of the book.

0-920661-53-X

TSAR Publications Canada, 1996

Awards:

Brendon Donelly Children's Literature Award

bottom of page