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Return of the African-American

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Return of the African American

by Curtis J, "Kojo" Morrow "My Sankofa"

I am the Author, and one of the early pioneers that helped in the reestablishing of relationship between/with, Africans, African Americans,, at ground-level... My journey (SANKOFA) begins with my introduction to nationalism in New York during the cultural revolution of the early 1960's. Disillusioned with the social and political situation that prevailed at that time, I moved to Accra, Ghana with less than $300.00 and a vow to make a new home for myself. It concentrates on my eleven years (1965 to 1976) living, working and traveling in Ghana, Togo and the Ivory Coast. I details my training by some of West Africans most gifted and master carvers. While there (1966) I was adopted by an Ashanti-Paramount Chief, Nana Kwaku Duah, and bestowed the tribal name of "Achampong". and thereafter called, "Kojo Achampong" It was a rich journey through the languages, foods and customs of my people. A story which not only have historical significance, but one I feel would be of special interest to American Blacks, and other minorities in seeking out their heritage.

Since returning to America I have practiced the jewelry making craftsmanship, acquired in Africa... I also feel that every American of African descent, should make it a point to visit the land of their ancestors at least onces during their life. If in any way possible.

The Author

It was Marcus Garvey who spoke and wrote so eloquently about "love for self and kind." Bro. Kojo, your book, too, is an eloquent treatise that speaks of "love for self and kind."

First, we read about the love you had to have for yourself,-- enough to leave your immediate family and the comforts of home to embrace new experiences in a distant land. Then we are introduced to your love for your motherland, Africa, which is apparent when your observations and insights allow us to see, touch, taste, ear, smell, and feel all that you witnessed. Finally, love for black people is clearly evident, when you allow us to walk in your shoes and share your dreams.

Although I view this as a text that projects "love for self and kind," I see it as book that I would recommend to anyone who has ever wondered, "Who am I and where do I come from?". RETURN OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN grabbed my attention from the very beginning and held me, enraptured, long after I had read the last word.

Congratulations!

Reading this book you will feel very present with the places and people Kojo adopts (and is adopted by) in his 11 years of traveling and living in West Africa. His writing is very immediate, intimate and personal, his observations keen and full of insight.

It is wonderful to get an inside view of Africa from one who was so brave to leave the comforts of America and spend many years there. The information contained in the book shows a side of Africa unknown to the average American. I have learned from this author and believe that others will also.

Curtis "Kojo" Morrow has done it again! His very descriptive writing style is a true beauty to behold.

In these pages, Mr. Morrow sets the tone for his journey through Ghana and other countries. If one listens/reads closely enough one can easily be transported and accompany Mr. Morrow as he sets about his travels and his learning experiences in Africa.

All in all, a wonderful adventure.....Move over Louis Gates, you have competition!

This is a truely virtual trip into the motherland.The author takes you very deep into the African country and into the bush. He shares with you all of his cultural experiences while living there. His experiences of living in the bush keeps you enthralled and opens all of your senses to the true life of the African Heritage. This book is beautifully written so that all can enhance thier knowledge of the African futurity.

Mr. Morrow was brave and adventurous, no surprise given his earlier experiences described in his book "What's a Commie Ever Done to Black People." Having read dozens of travel narratives and having lived and worked in African countries myself, I can say I especially enjoyed this one, not only because of his unique perspective as a black artist, but because he is a fine story teller and a very honest, direct and observant writer. Let's have a sequel!

This descriptive and journalistic adventure is a true marvel to read. the journey that Mr. Morrow takes us through is one that every African American hopes to travel to in their lifetime.

We are there when the author travels to the various countries and relates to various people.

Move over Mr. Louis Gates......You have competition!