Exploring Culture and Connection with our picture book ‘I’ll See You in Ijebu’

From the lively streets of Lagos to the lush landscapes of Ijebu, our picture book I’ll See You in Ijebu takes kids on a journey through the vibrant worlds of Olu, a young Nigerian girl navigating her rich multi-faith heritage. Named a Read with Jenna Jr Bookclub Pick on The TODAY Show, this book offers an immersive experience for young readers.

It’s a story that lets you travel alongside Olu, experiencing the warmth of her family, the excitement of returning to a cherished place, and the delicious tastes of her world. With every turn of the page, you’re drawn deeper into Olu’s life, whether you experience the joy of seeing your own experiences represented on the page or the wonder of learning something entirely new. Kirkus Reviews gave I’ll See You in Ijebu a starred review, calling it, “a loving embrace of faith and family and a wonderful window into Nigerian culture.”

To go along with this heartwarming story, we’ve created an engaging educator resource designed to spark creativity and encourage thoughtful reflection. One activity asks children to create their own street hawking call, much like the ones Olu hears in her bustling Lagos neighborhood. This hands-on exercise not only taps into children’s imaginations, but also helps them connect more deeply with the story’s setting and the main character’s daily experiences.

The educator resource also includes a discussion guide filled with questions that prompt kids to reflect on their personal experiences, drawing parallels to Olu’s story. For example, children are asked to think about their favorite food, describing its smell and how it makes them feel — just as Olu might savor her favorite dishes in the book. Other questions encourage kids to recall special family traditions or the excitement of road trips, much like Olu’s journey to Ijebu. These prompts make the story’s themes relatable and help kids explore their own cultural identities and family connections.

Whether it’s reflecting on a favorite memory with a loved one or imagining a future tradition that they’re eager to join, these discussion questions are designed to foster meaningful conversations. They encourage children to share their own stories, making I’ll See You in Ijebu a powerful tool for cultural exploration and self-discovery.

This book and its accompanying resources (including a fun coloring page!) are perfect for educators who wish to introduce children to cultures outside America while encouraging them to celebrate their own unique traditions. I’ll See You in Ijebu is more than just a story — it’s an invitation to explore, connect and celebrate the richness of family and cultural heritage.

Download the Activity Pack!

About the Book