by Ashliegh Gehl
Nadia L. Hohn builds on her children’s literature legacy with Malaika’s Surprise, her third picture book published by Groundwood Books.
Hohn, a Toronto-based writer, educator, musician and artist, threads the breadth of her expertise through this memorable series to present a heartwarming narrative enriched by Irene Luxbacher’s stunning illustrations. It’s fair to say that Hohn and Luxbacher are a dream team making culturally-rich picture book magic that will stand the test of time.
If you’re new to Malaika’s world, prepare to be enveloped in the warmth of her strong, beautiful voice which is a blend of standard English and Caribbean patois. Malaika was born in the Caribbean, her mother is Afro-Caribbean, and her step-father and step-sister are White French-Canadians. The series’ linguistic stylings embody a diverse community wrapped in inclusivity. The glossary of Caribbean, French and Arabic terms in the frontmatter give a sneak peek to the book’s vibrancy.
What’s great about this series, is that Malaika’s Costume, Malaika’s Winter Carnival and Malaika’s Surprisehave the strength to stand on their own as independent reads. However, when read together, they soar even higher, reaching new heights as Malaika changes and develops. Children and adults alike can believe in Malaika, and empathize with her challenges and understand her worries.
In Malaika’s Surprise, Hohn strategically builds on the robust foundation of her storyline while preserving Malaika’s observant, curious and caring nature. When Malaika spies a new neighbour, she instantly translates it into the possibility of making a new friend. A friend who speaks Arabic and, much like Malaika, is new to Canada. Within the beauty of differences are the roots of similarities. Through their gestures and interactions is a friendship taking shape. One which the reader hopes to see more of, possibly in future books, as this budding relationship flourishes and blossoms.
The heart of this series is tethered to family and in Malaika’s Surprise surfaces thoughts about purpose and place. When Malaika learns that she’s about to be a big sister to Émile, her forthcoming baby brother, she wonders how her family will change, and how it will alter the relationship she has with her mother. The idea of a new baby fills Malaika with curiosity, but also with hesitation, worry and doubt.
Hohn’s writing is deep and immersive. The reader doesn’t think of the writer, but hears and feels Malaika as she navigates her circumstances and the emotions they summon. Only when the book ends, and Malaika is left between the pages, does Hohn’s mastery of the craft command a standing ovation.