On Safari At The C.H. Booth Library

By Larissa Lytwyn

Children had the opportunity to come face-to-face with hippopotamus, impalas, crocodiles and other exotic wildlife at the C.H. Booth Library June 30 with guides Laurie Krebs, a first grade teacher for more than 20 years, and her husband William, an avid amateur photographer.

Mrs Krebs is the author of We All Went on Safari: A Counting Journey Through Tanzania, illustrated by African fine artist Julia Cairns. Inspired by the Krebs’ numerous travels to Africa, We All Went on Safari identifies and numbers the different animals spotted in both Swahili and English. The book also includes a map of Tanzania and a comprehensive glossary of English-Swahili terms, such as the Swahili words to describe creativity, ambition, patience, and other values.

“Our trips to Africa began when I was taking a class at the University of Connecticut,” said Mr Krebs. “There was an opportunity to take a safari and we went, and fell in love with the experience!” The trip also stirred Mr Krebs’ passion for photography. “I absolutely love it!” he said. The Ridgefield couple present slide shows of approximately 200 photographs, culled from thousands, across the state, often in conjunction with Mrs Kreb’s promotional book signings.

“Jambo!” exclaimed Mrs Krebs after a brief introduction by Children’s Library director, Alana Meloni. The children squealed in delight. “Jambo!” Mrs Krebs said again. “Do you know what that word means? It means ‘hello’ in Swahili, the language spoken in Tanzania, Africa!”

 After Mrs Krebs read the story, enlivened with volunteering audience members holding up giant pictures of the animals discussed, Mr Krebs presented the slide show, set to a soundtrack largely drawn from the Lion King soundtrack, to more than 50 children. Most listened in rapt attention throughout the 45-minute presentation. In addition to identifying the dozens of different animals depicted, Mr Krebs also discussed the region’s geography, as well as showing pictures of African classrooms, homes, and communities.

 Ms Krebs’ first book, The Beeman, a story of a little girl learning about beekeeping from her beloved grandfather, known as the Beeman, was released in September 2002. A series of children’s books focusing on various aspects of colonial life will be released in August. Following its recent summer kickoff, the We All Went on Safari book signing marks the C.H. Booth Library’s second program of the season. Events are free and open to the public. For more information, call Ms Meloni at 426-3581.