Africa A to Z: An Alphabet Adventure Through a Big, Beautiful Continent

My son picked up an interest in Africa that I didn’t expect. He loved maps and has always been drawn to the continent, no matter which atlas he explores. But when I tried to teach him more about Africa, I couldn’t find what I needed. He loves books, but more were either too advanced for his young age, too shallow, or just didn’t show Africa the way I wanted him to see it. (You know. Honestly.) I needed something that talked about more than just animals. I needed something that said, “Hey little guy. I’m glad you like Africa. Let me show you what it’s really like in a way that you will understand.”

So I made Africa A to Z.

It’s a real-photo alphabet book that shows the continent one letter at a time. Each page features one letter and a brief description of what’s being shown. Some are familiar, like “elephant” or “drum.” Others are new for him, like “island” and “Xousa.” Each page comes with a vivid image carefully selected to spark curiosity and lead to conversation.

I wrote it for my son, but I realized pretty quickly that it could be helpful for other families too. So I decided to share it.

Why It Works for Early Learners

If you have a child who doesn’t respond well to worksheets, who gets bored with drill-style learning, or who simply needs to move and explore while learning… this book may help your child learn about Africa.

You can use it however you chose. Right now my son is enjoying the included aerial view of Madagascar and insisting that zebras are horses. But you can do so much more should you choose. Read one or two pages a day. Match a letter ot a hands-on activity. Use the photos as story prompts or play invitations. Or just sit and enjoy it together.

I do plan on including this book in an early learning unit called Exploring Africa. There are just so many ways to explore God’s Creation through this lens, and I want to take advantage. Stay tuned. There are dramatic play ideas, art, science, music, and more activities for homeschoolers. But even on its own, Africa A to Z can spark meaningful learning moments. It was made with care, and my heart’s intent is that it brings joy to your home the way it has mine.

Happy learning!

~LaShanda