The Story of Sambo
As I read this children's book a few times last night,
I pondered on if it would be a good fit for my little girl-
I wondered if what it was teaching was honest,
does it really make sense what goes on in the world?
I do see some racism but probably not enough to band,
it may show African Americans like to indulge -
The illustrations in the book show big eyes and lips,
which some may see as a stereotypical divulge.
The word "Sambo" really means mulatto,
a racist term often used out of fiery rage-
"Mumbo" and "Jumbo" refer to a Central African
tribal association medicine man during that age.
Even though there are a few negative things,
I see the beauty in Sambo's told tale,
that in greed and lust for material items,
with calmness and negotiation, you can't fail.
He wore a red coat, blue trousers and purple shoes,
along with a green umbrella to shield the rain-
But in this story it clearly demonstrates,
what it's like to live in fear and pain.
To have to give away what is yours,
out of apprehension of what will take place,
and seeing fighting over unsubstantial stuff,
leaving nothing but trepidation on a boy's face.
When the awnry tigers turn to melted butter,
then used for pancakes for a meal,
to me this definitely indicates how it felt
to be stolen from; it was Sambo's time to heal.
I would absolutely read this story to my little girl,
it shows how racism can be overcome in the world.
June 13, 2017
Copyright © Lu Loo | Year Posted 2017
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