Synopses & Reviews
The children in Madagascar rejoice in life's natural gifts--singing, working in the fields, helping their parents, and playing with lizards. Divided into three sections: "We Live!," "We Grow!" and "We Feel!," Torina's World: A Child's Life in Madagascar offers a glimpse into daily life in a Malagasy village, and encourages children in Western cultures to examine and reflect on life in a developing country. Ten years ago, author and photographer Joni Kabana spent a month in Madagascar. Her intention was to bring back images for her children showing how other children live. Torina, an eight-year-old Malagasy girl, acted as Joni's guide into this world. Back home, Joni's nine-year-old son, Benjamin Opsahl, helped edit the images and added simple, yet profound text that will engage readers across the world. Torina is now eighteen. She still lives in a small hut with her mother, father and six brothers. Her desire to further her education has been hindered by a lack of financial resources, thus a portion of the proceeds from book sales will provide funding for her education as well as other educational activities in Madagascar. Celebrate diversity with Torina's World, and join with readers young and old in embracing a multi-cultural perspective. To learn more about Torina, her life in Madagascar, and fundraising efforts visit Torinas World.com!
Review
"It is remarkable to see such an important message of appreciation and concern for others elicited in such a simple, yet impacting, manner."
About the Author
After years as a technology executive, Joni Kabana returned to her childhood passion of photography. She is now a highly respected and award winning Pacific Northwest commercial and portrait photographer. Her images of street children, cancer patients, and the "misunderstood," are hauntingly provocative. Joni was named "Compassionate Photographer of the Year," by Seattle's Rosewater Foundation and has been the recipient of various grants. Her desire to bring international and diversity awareness to her own children motivated the trip to Madagascar and inspired the creation of this book. She says, "I love to see what is hidden within our preconceptions: the tenderness of a corporate executive, the fragility of a tough street kid, the wisdom in a child with cancer, the grace that impoverishment can instill." Joni resides in Portland, Oregon, but travels the world for her assignments.