Our Ancestories Series

Idia of the Benin Kingdom is an empowering children's picture book that takes listeners on a beautifully illustrated journey to the 1500s in ancient Africa. Listeners are captivated as they watch Idia transform herself from the young and curious daughter of a village warrior to becoming the queen of the kingdom of Benin. Idia was a queen who helped rule the ancient kingdom of Benin with her wisdom, charisma, and prowess. Much has been written about her bravery, and artifacts in her image are treasured in museums all over the world.

Njinga of Ndongo and Matamba is the true story of a girl who had a difficult birth, but went on to become the Queen of two ancient African kingdoms. Revered for her wisdom, courage, and strength, Njinga became a dominant political figure in Angola in the 1600s. This children’s book tells her story and the challenges she faced from the day she was born. Njinga must overcome the jealousy of her brother, the loss of her father, and the encroachment of the Portuguese at the dawn of a time of great trial for the African continent.