aboutimage galleriescontactsubscribe

CHIKE and the River

NOVEMBER 28, 2011

Chike and the River is a story originally published as a children's book by the Nigerian author Chinua Achebe.   It is now being released in the United States as a fable with a series of about 15 of my paintings published throughout the book.  I spent much of last Fall working on this project with art director John Gall at Random House.   It was great to see the entire book put together.   It's now available through most stores or online here at Amazon or here at Barnes and Noble.  Below is some info about the book along with the images found throughout the story.  The paintings are acrylic on paper, about 12" x 16", some originals are available here through my illogator store.
 
“This light work by the boundlessly talented Achebe follows Chike, an 11-year-old boy whose adventures comprise neat little life lessons . . . . Rodriguez’s charming illustrations add texture to a classic children’s story.”Publishers Weekly
 
"Eleven-year-old Chike longs to cross the Niger River to the city of Asaba, but he doesn’t have the sixpence he needs to pay for the ferry ride. With the help of his friend S.M.O.G., he embarks on a series of adventures to help him get there. Along the way, he is exposed to a range of new experiences that are both thrilling and terrifying, from eating his first skewer of suya under the shade of a mango tree, to visiting the village magician who promises to double the money in his pocket. Once he finally makes it across the river, Chike realizes that life on the other side is far different from his expectations, and he must find the courage within him to make it home. Chike and the River is a magical tale of boundaries, bravery, and growth, by Chinua Achebe, one of the world’s most beloved and admired storytellers."













Back Cover

© 2024 Edel Rodriguez