West African Kora Music Highlighted in New Children's Book Release -- 'Sidikiba's Kora Lesson'

This book, recommended for ages 8 and up, will transport the reader to another land and culture where honor and respect for one's elders and trust in the community are foremost in a young boy's life. It is a mesmerizing introduction to the beautiful, soothing sound of the West African harp -- the kora. A 7-track CD of Sidiki's music is included in every book. The beautiful and vibrant illustrations showcase Sidiki's home and the community of Bamako, Mali.

Minneapolis, MN (PRWEB) October 31, 2008 -- Ryan Thomas Skinner, author and illustrator, announces his first children's book -- "Sidikiba's Kora Lesson" (see www.sidikibaskoralesson.com).

This book, recommended for ages 8 and up, will transport the reader to another land and culture where honor and respect for one's elders and trust in the community are foremost in a young boy's life. It is a mesmerizing introduction to the beautiful, soothing sound of the West African harp -- the kora. A 7-track CD of Sidiki's music is included in every book. The beautiful and vibrant illustrations showcase Sidiki's home and the community of Bamako, Mali.

The real life inspiration for the book is Sidiki Diabaté. Sidiki is the son of Grammy award winning kora master, Toumani Diabaté and the grandson of his namesake, Sidiki Diabaté -- known throughout West Africa as "the king of the Kora".

About the Author/Illustrator

Ryan Thomas Skinner is an author, Illustrator, musician, and ethnomusicologist who, for the past ten years, has conducted extensive research on traditional and modern music in Mali, West Africa. Ryan is a longtime student of kora master Toumani Diabaté and has performed and taught kora music in Europe and the United States. The recipient of numerous fellowships and awards, Ryan is currently completing a doctorate at Columbia University. "Sidikiba's Kora Lesson" is Ryan's first children's book.

For further information and to order, visit www.sidikibaskoralesson.com. The author is available for print and on-air interviews/performance. Please contact for details.

Contact:

Ryan Skinner

512-506-0328

rts2104 @ columbia.edu

www.ryanskinner.org

# # #