Oge Mora Tells Stories that Celebrate Black Joy | Future History

Oge Mora, an acclaimed storyteller, discusses her book 'Thank You, Omu!' and its themes of community and gratitude. She reflects on her Nigerian heritage and American upbringing, emphasizing the importance of joy in black narratives. Oge highlights the need for representation in art and literature, sharing her experiences and aspirations for her legacy in the art world.

What is the central theme of Oge Mora's book 'Thank You, Omu'?

• The history of Nigerian cuisine

• The importance of sharing and community

• The challenges of urban living

• The journey of a young artist

How does Oge Mora describe the influence of her Nigerian heritage on her work?

• It limits her storytelling to traditional themes

• It makes her work less relatable to American audiences

• It focuses solely on Nigerian folklore

• It provides a rich duality that enhances her narratives

Why does Oge Mora emphasize joy in her storytelling?

• To balance narratives that often focus on pain

• To avoid discussing painful experiences

• To appeal to a younger audience

• To align with popular trends in literature

What does Oge Mora believe is crucial for children in art and literature?

• Seeing characters that reflect their own identities

• Understanding complex narratives

• Exposure to a variety of artistic styles

• Learning about historical events

What challenge does Oge Mora highlight about black illustrators and creators?

• Limited access to educational resources

• Lack of talent in the industry

• Insufficient marketing and visibility of their work

• Overrepresentation in mainstream media

What does Oge Mora hope people will say about her work in the future?

• She was a successful entrepreneur

• She focused on historical accuracy

• She gave her very best to children

• She was a prolific writer

Which illustrator does Oge Mora admire and draw inspiration from?

• Amina Robinson

• Beatrix Potter

• Tommy DePaula

• Maurice Sendak