Ubuntu

5/10/2018

Grandad Mandela
by Zindzi Mandela , Zazi Mandela, and Ziwelene Mandela
ill Sean Qualls

'I cannot and will not give any undertaking at a time when I and you, the people, are not free.' 

Eight-year-old Zazi and six-year-old Ziwelene discover an old photograph. Their grandmother Zindzi Mandela, the youngest child born to Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and President Nelson Mandela, recognizes the photo immediately. It is a picture of her father. Through a series of questions, the great grandchildren learn about their heritage, their great grandfather's legacy, and the struggle to dismantle apartheid and win the freedom for all peoples in South Africa.
The deprivation, pain, and imprisonment Mandela endured are explained. However, Grandmother lovingly frames the story in a positive light, pointing out the strength and dignity of her father and his firm resolve to remain true to his principles.

"I want to see you strong,
you must hold your head up high."

Grandmother continues, relating Mandela's release from prison and his subsequent South African presidency, as well as his tireless efforts to champion equality and justice for all.
The children are encouraged to honor him by volunteering and working to create a better world.

Ambassador Zindzi Mandela, with her grandchildren Zazi and Ziwelene have written a personal and powerful tribute to Mandela's life and legacy. Grandad Mandela is an exquisite volume and a treasure for children throughout the world.

Ubuntu: I am because we all are

Sean Qualls employs a predominantly sepia-toned pallet. It heightens the warmth of family connection. There is a sense of the humanity and humility of this man and of his family, grounded in their country and its people.