It began as a presentation during Black History Month in London to celebrate the annual UK event in October and has now evolved, four years later, into the publication of a children’s book about one of Britain’s most inspiring Black heroes, Olaudah Equiano.
“The Awesome Equiano” tells the true story of an 18th-century African boy, Olaudah Equiano, who was kidnapped into slavery from the Igbo village of Essaka, Southern Nigeria. This beautifully illustrated book, drawn from Equiano’s autobiography written by Hugh Closs and brought to life by award-winning British Nigerian artist and illustrator Tayo Fatunla, is aimed primarily at 8 to 12-year-olds but holds appeal for readers of all ages.
Despite the cruelties and hardships he faced, Equiano rose to become an accomplished seaman, an adventurer, and a leading London citizen who campaigned tirelessly for freedom. His extraordinary travels took him to America, Europe, the West Indies, and even the Arctic in search of a route to India. When his memoirs were first published, they were sponsored by the then Prince of Wales.
This beautifully illustrated book, drawn from Equiano’s autobiography written by Hugh Closs and brought to life by award-winning British Nigerian artist and illustrator Tayo Fatunla, is aimed primarily at 8 to 12-year-olds but holds appeal for readers of all ages.
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Hugh Closs, author of the autobiography adaptation, is an experienced journalist who contributed to local London newspapers prior to joining the BBC, where he promoted television and radio services internationally. Closs also has a background in social research, having conducted nationwide surveys on topics such as health, crime, and income. Currently, he serves as a volunteer at Peckham Library in Southeast London.
The book’s illustrations are provided by TAYO Fatunla, an esteemed British Nigerian author, comic artist, and illustrator, whose portfolio includes collaborations with the BBC, the British Museum, The Guardian UK, and Action Against Hunger several international clients. Fatunla is also the creator of “OUR ROOTS,” an illustrated feature that documents Black history.
The Awesome Equiano – A True Story is published by Colne House Publishing in the UK; inquiries may be directed to: equiano@colnehouse.net