Customer Reviews

Obara the Gatekeeper

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"Obara the Gatekeeper" is an adaptation of a sacred story, called an apataki, from the Yoruba religion in Africa. This children's story is set in Nigeria and tells the tale of a man named Obara, whose job was to open and close the gate into his walled town whenever anyone wanted to come in or go out. Naturally, it was quite a boring job, and Obara dreamed of greater things. Thanks to gifts of appreciation from grateful merchants who came through Obara's gate, he did become wealthy, quit his job and built the house of his dreams. But Obara soon found that his new life wasn't quite what he expected! This story teaches many timeless and universal lessons. As Obara says at the end of the book, "Next time, I will appreciate what I have." This adaptation by Michelle Bodden is gorgeously illustrated by Quentin "kwenci" Jones, and make the reader feel as if he or she has been dropped right into an African village. It is a beautiful book that both young and old will enjoy.

Obara the Gatekeeper is a wonderfully told story of how pride can blind one from being aware of what is going on around them...and how that can deeply effect their life. The illustrations in the book were excellent. I loved the vibrant colors and facial expressions...loved the little dog, too!

Michelle Bodden & Kwenci Jones have teamed up to give you a magnificent adaptation of a sacred story. This book will challenge you to pay attention in your life and watch what is happening around you each day. This book would be a great addition to anyone's library,young and old.

I thought this book was a magnificent sequel to Michelle's first piece, Obara and the Merchants. The story is a well crafted beauty like the first. Michelle's stories are always so atypical and thought provoking. Kwenci Jones, painting's were even more glorious & more detailed than the previous Obara story. I was so impressed, I approached Michelle Bodden for the opportunity to produce both stories as children's animated short programs which are currently in production now!

Enjoy the both books and DVD's!

Rich McKeown
President
Koolkidz Television & Publishing