Author Ryan Thomas Skinner’s book, Sidikiba’s Kora Lesson, is so well written and so lushly illustrated that it will capture you at first look. The vibrant colors and artistic style of the artwork are breathtaking. Details on clothing and in tapestries, rugs, and furniture highlight the cultural artisanship of the Mande people of West Africa. Faithful depictions of home and landscape transport the reader to the faraway African country of Mali, the home of the book’s protagonist, Sidikiba.

Seventy generations of kora players have preceded Sidikiba. Now ten years old, it is time for Sidikiba to play his role in his family’s legacy and learn to play the kora. The kora is not an easy musical instrument to master, as it has 21 strings and infinite musical possibilities. Will Sidikiba master it? This multi-faceted book incorporates themes of cultural identity and music appreciation, but it goes beyond that. It tells of the emotional, spiritual, and intellectual journey Sidikiba travels in this uplifting, African, coming-of-age story both children and adults will love.

Ryan Thomas Skinner both wrote and illustrated Sidikiba’s Kora Lesson. It is rare to find so much talent embodied in one artist. The writing is compelling, yet the book would be praiseworthy based on its artwork alone. Skinner’s unrestrained admiration and affection for West African people and their culture radiates from the pages, adding a warm, burnished finish to an already lovely glow. But there is more. Accompanying the book is a kora music CD, the arrangements created and performed by the real Sidikiba, Sidiki Diabaté.

Ryan Thomas Skinner is a West Africa scholar currently completing his doctorate at Columbia University.