Description:
In Boussi and Biri and the Bag Too Big, two sisters in an African village discover that when they work together, even small hands can make a big difference in this heartwarming story of family, courage, and kindness.
Brief description: Born in the tropics of Central Africa and spending her teens in the dusty sub-Saharan region, Erin began expressing herself through writing and art at an early age. Her creativity celebrates the richness of culture, shared humanity, and the beauty found in everyday moments across the globe. Now in the lush Pacific Northwest of the United States, Erin lives with her husband, daughters, and various pets, including two red-foot tortoises, where she enjoys painting, writing, and absorbing the beauty of nature.
Review Quotes:
"Erin Hoover uses expressive, lyrical language and gorgeous watercolor illustrations as she follows sisters Boussi and Biri through a typical day in the Central African Republic. The girls join their father as he works tirelessly making charcoal for them to sell at market, while Mother works the garden and cares for their little brother. Hoover's story deftly explores family relationships and the joys and struggles of daily life." -Amy Betz, Tiny Tales Editing
"Erin Hoover has given children everywhere a rare opportunity to step into the daily lives of African children in her new book, Boussi and Biri and the Bag Too Big. Born and raised in African countries herself, Erin relives her childhood friendships and memories in vivid detail, drawing us into the lives of those living half a world away. In a very different situation, these two sisters show us that their desires and family loyalties are not so "far away" from us after all. Beautifully illustrated by the author, the African family comes alive in our own living room chair as we read this book to our own children. Cracked pots and broken flip flops, we can almost hear the chickens squawk . . . ." -Thomas M. Stallter