Looking for a Jumbie By Tracey Baptiste Illustrated by Amber Ren

Back of Book:

I’m looking for a jumbie, I’m going to find a scary one.

But Mama says jumbies exist only in stories. So Naya sets out on a nighttime adventure to find out for herself.

No such thing, say the friends she makes along the way. 

But Naya is sure that jumbies are real. Some have big mouths. Or thick fur. Or glowing skin. Or sharp teeth. Kind of like her new friends.…

Looking for a Jumbie is a gentle, bouncy, and creepily fun read-aloud inspired by traditional Caribbean tales.

My Review:

I received a copy of this book from Balzer and Bray Publishers in exchange for an honest review. 

Looking for a Jumbie by Tracey Baptiste is a creative story about a young girl, and her journey to locate a jumbie. Jumbies are creatures from Caribbean stories and Naya is determined to locate a scary one. As she goes on her quest, Naya comes across several different creatures, but they are more friendly than scary. The text of the book follows a pattern similar to “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” and keeps readers engaged throughout the story. The illustrations by Amber Ren are bright and imaginative. This is a great introduction to the world of Caribbean folk tales. 

More about Looking for a Jumbie:

“The illustrations are colorful and dreamlike, and Ren pays special attention to accentuating the features of characters. A nice addition to offerings on being afraid of the dark, monsters, or nighttime adventures.” –Booklist

“This is an adorable tale …A vibrant and entertaining tale filled with mythical creatures from Caribbean stories that is perfect for Halloween and year-round.” –School Library Journal

Ages 5 and up

32 Pages 

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