Aniesa Gismondi created narrated coloring books to connect her daughter Ila with Trinidad and Tobago culture while living in California. Her books, “Let’s Colour Carnival” and “Let’s Colour Divali,” aim to educate young children about Carnival traditions and the significance of cultural heritage. Available at various retailers, Gismondi’s work fosters appreciation of Trinidadian culture among children in both local and diaspora communities.
Aniesa Gismondi, residing in California, aims to connect her 15-month-old daughter with Trinidad and Tobago culture through her narrated coloring book, “Let’s Colour Carnival.” The book highlights traditional mas characters from Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival, encouraging children to appreciate the country’s rich history and creative spirit. Gismondi emphasizes the importance of storytelling and interactivity in keeping cultural heritage alive for future generations.
Utilizing the pen name Ila Maharaj—drawing inspiration from her daughter’s name and her mother’s maiden name—Gismondi aims to ensure that her daughter remains connected to her Trinidadian roots despite being raised away from family, with most relatives settled in New York. Her ambition is to create culturally relevant books that strengthen the ties of Caribbean children, both at home and in the diaspora, to their heritage.
Gismondi’s journey into children’s literature began when she wanted to find cultural books for her daughter. Unsuccessful in sourcing any books on Divali, she decided to write her own, blending her interests in literature and storytelling, which had been a significant part of her life. After realizing the need for culturally relevant content, she sought an illustrator in Trinidad and Tobago, settling on Shireen Ragoobir for her first coloring book, “Let’s Colour Divali.”
Inspiration for Gismondi’s second book, “Let’s Colour Carnival,” stems from her affection for the Carnival and its traditions. She aims to inform young children aged one to three about Carnival beyond the superficiality of its vibrant costumes. Through rhymes, she introduces mas characters engagingly; for instance, she describes the Jab Jab using imaginative perspectives that resonate with young learners.
“Let’s Colour Carnival” is widely accessible, available for purchase at various outlets including Scribbles and Quills and Amazon. Gismondi has plans for a series dedicated to Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural celebrations and holidays. Through these works, she aspires to nurture appreciation and celebration of her native culture.
In summary, Aniesa Gismondi seeks to bridge the cultural gap for her daughter and other Caribbean children through engaging and educational coloring books. Through her works, such as “Let’s Colour Carnival” and “Let’s Colour Divali,” she enhances cultural understanding and appreciation among the youth. By incorporating storytelling and traditional mas characters, Gismondi not only preserves Trinidad and Tobago’s vibrant heritage but also fosters a sense of identity in future generations.
Original Source: newsday.co.tt
