My Name is Konisola

Based on the true story of the life experiences of Konisola Priestman, the novel tells the story of a young Nigerian refugee who comes to Canada with her sick mother to flee violence and in search of a better life. Alone in a strange land, Konisola must learn to find her place in a new country, a new home, and with a new family. Appropriate for intermediate-level students, “My Name is Konisola” is suitable as a read-aloud, as part of a novel study or in literature circles to further explore themes around Canadian identity, immigration, social responsibility, and the experiences of minority groups in Canada. In the classroom, this engaging story may be of particular interest to students who can relate to Konisola’s experience as a refugee, also providing many opportunities for all students to think critically and explore the topics from the various characters’ perspectives.