I wrote a book! Celebrating my black heritage with a heartwarming story

I am thrilled to announce the launch of my children's book,

Yael's Whimsical Quest: Heritage Uncovered.

I decided to write, illustrate and self-publish my first ebook during Black History Month, to celebrate diversity. As a biracial individual, this book is a heartfelt exploration inspired by my own experiences.

Yael

In this charming story, meet Yael, a young adventurer born into a world of diverse cultures. Join her as she stumbles upon a hidden photo album in her attic, sparking a quest to uncover the secrets of her family's past. The soft crackling of the fireplace and the snowy landscape outside set the stage for a heartwarming adventure that will resonate with both young immigrants and native English speakers aged 6-12.

Immerse Yourself in Yael's World

As Yael delves into her family's history, the story comes alive with vibrant descriptions and sensory details. The warm aroma of freshly cooked potatoes in the kitchen, the crackling fireplace, and the gently falling snow outside create a cozy atmosphere that will transport young readers to Yael's world. Through Yael's eyes, children will experience the joy of discovery, the warmth of family, and the magic of cultural heritage.

Nestled in a town covered by fluffy snow, Yael, a child born of parents from diverse worlds, was playing in the attic of her house. 

(Chapter 1, Yael' Whimsical Quest)

Unlock the Language of Family and Heritage

One of the central themes of Yael's Whimsical Quest is the exploration of family and heritage. Yael's quest to understand her father's language and connect with her African roots introduces children to the richness of cultural diversity. Through the enchanting journey, young readers not only discover the importance of their own family narratives but also gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse tapestry of cultures that make our world so wonderfully unique.

Available Now!

Yael's Whimsical Quest is available for download on Amazon (worldwide, below are the direct links to .com and .it), Google Books, Lulu and Kobo (click the brown buttons down below).

Dive into the magical world of Yael, Opal, and Asha as they embark on a journey of discovery, friendship, and cultural heritage. This captivating ebook promises to be a delightful read for children aged 6-12: we recommend you read it aloud with your 6- to 8-year-old (especially if your child is a non-native English speaker), while independent reading is suitable for 9- to 12-year-old children.

Don't miss out on the adventure—get your copy today and let the enchantment begin!

If you read the book, please leave a review on the corresponding website or on Goodreads, it would truly make my day!

Thank you so much

Amazon.com (Kindle)

Google Books

Kobo

Lulu

Amazon.it (Kindle)

Packing list - Fieldwork diaries

What to pack for fieldwork in East Africa

When I was looking for packing lists for fieldwork in Africa I couldn't find much, thus, I decided to provide the lacking information right after coming back from my field trip.

This packing list can be suitable for most fieldworkers even though a couple of items are gender specific; the same list is adequate for neighbouring countries and not exclusive to Ethiopia. Bear in mind that I spent a few weeks in the Ethiopian countryside and that fieldwork in a big city (e.g., Addis Ababa) may carry its challenges. For some insights into my experience watch the YouTube video I made on the same topic.

There are a couple of affiliate links if you want to purchase the same items I packed to conduct research. If you click on these links you will not pay any extra costs but I will get a tiny compensation.

Here I was interviewing Woldekidane, a friend but also the head of the Kambaata department in Duuraame, Kambaata, Ethiopia.

Research related

Microphone

Camera

Mobile phone

Tripod

Notebook

Pens and pencils

Headphones

Laptop

External hard drive (SSD)

Extra memory cards

Phone charger

Camera charger

Extra batteries

Essentials

Passport

Passport copies

Printed visa

Plastic envelopes, one for each printed document

Accommodation confirmation

Health/travel insurance

Reusable water bottle (possibly thermos-like)

Miscellaneous

Headlight or any torch

Insect repellent

Tape

Water purifier

Money belt

Flip flops

Zip-lock plastic bags

Clothesline drying (or a rope with clothespins)

Sewing kit

Sunglasses

Clothing

Scarf

Long trousers

T-shirts

Long-sleeved shirts

Raincoat

Knee length/long skirt or dress

Jumper

Underwear

Water/dust-resistant shoes

Inexpensive accessories

Bonus tips

Bear in mind that refrigerators are not widespread, besides, power cuts can happen at all times and last several hours, thus a tiny and lightweight cooler bag might come in handy. I happened to have one with me because I had brought some chocolate bars to gift and the bag itself turned out useful during the trip as well as a much-appreciated gift along with the chocolate.

You might want to purchase a mosquito net if your accommodation does not provide any (either on the windows or on the bed). In my case, I had to improvise and use some rope with small hooks to hang a mosquito net in my bedroom.

Be prepared to take showers with bugs and spiders and if you have any insect-related allergy don't forget your anti-histamine.

What I wish I brought

• power strip

• umbrella (both for sunny and rainy days)

• triple electrical socket

• card reader

• Swiss Army knife

• extra notebooks

In conclusion, this fieldwork packing guide for East Africa is a firsthand account born from my experience in rural Ethiopia. Covering essentials for both research and travel, the guide is adaptable for neighbouring countries, with acknowledgement of potential urban variations.

Download the infographic for a visual summary and embark on your fieldwork well-prepared for the diverse challenges that lie ahead. Safe travels!

Packing_list_Fieldwork_Africa

.pdf

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