A review by mat_tobin
Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale by John Steptoe
4.0
An African folk-retelling formed around the Cinderella trope, Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters tells the story of two young women who are to vie for the affections of their King who seeks a wife. Whilst both sisters are loved by the community, Manyara sees herself a victim and bitter jealousy sinks in. She attempts to ostricise her better-natured sister from her father and the others in the hope of being chosen to be queen. Set a task by powers beyond their understanding or knowledge, both sisters' true natures eventually reveal themselves.
I found Steptoe's illustrations to be beautiful. Inspired by Zimbabwain ruins and local flora and fauna of the region, in wanting to present as accurately as possible, he asked for guidance from the Afro-American Institute. As authentic as it (possibly) was, it was interesting to see a review from the great Errol Lloyd which was not as flattering as I would have expected, calling out on the romanticised depiction of Africa.
I found Steptoe's illustrations to be beautiful. Inspired by Zimbabwain ruins and local flora and fauna of the region, in wanting to present as accurately as possible, he asked for guidance from the Afro-American Institute. As authentic as it (possibly) was, it was interesting to see a review from the great Errol Lloyd which was not as flattering as I would have expected, calling out on the romanticised depiction of Africa.