Author: Julia Stewart

Publisher: Gramercy

Published: 2007

Total Pages: 216

ISBN-13: 9780517229217

FROM ADJOA TO ZAHARA is a treasure trove for anyone looking for a unique name that evokes a rich heritage for a baby or an adult, as well as anyone interested in African culture. Here are more than 1000 names with pronunciation, meaning, gender, country of origin, and general background information, including: · Adwin — a Akan of Ghana male name meaning “artist” or “thinker” · Farida — a Muslim female name meaning “precious pearl, only one, unique” · Juma — a Swahili name for males born on Friday · Lomela — a river in central Zaire, and a name for girls · Mandisa — Xhosa of South Africa female name meaning “sweet” · Rakanja — a male name of the Muarusha people of Tanzania · Tanala — a girls’ name meaning “people of the forest,” a group from eastern Madagascar · Zesiro — a Buganda of Uganda name for the firstborn of twins Brimming with fascinating facts about the cultures and rulers of the vast and diverse African nation, FROM ADJOA TO ZAHARA offers, in addition to the myriad name suggestions, quotes, proverbs, and poems about names and birth. There is also a section on cross-cultural references and meanings for the many African names that share Arabic, Hebrew, Spanish, and other heritage. In the appendices is a list of modern African rulers, a list of suggested reading and places to go for further research, and a description of several African language families. Also included is practical information on changing names, including naming trends and the legalities of name changing. There is even a section on fun and silly African names for children, cherished friends, or pets. This comprehensive and fascinating book is an invaluable guide to the incredibly diverse names from the vast and varied African continent.