Vandella Brown on Little Black Sambo

Vandella Brown gave a presentation on Little Black Sambo entitled, "From Adversity to Diversity: Reading Helen Bannerman's Little Story: 1898-2009." She explored several different versions of it throughout its 110 year history and illustrated her presentation with an overhead projector.






One version by Anne Issacs is entitled Pancakes for Supper!


Another version by Josefina Urdanete follows the Bannerman story but has new illustrations and is in Spanish. The character's name Zambo caused controversy:



There are many other versions of the book, including one called Sam and the Tigers beautifully illustrated by Jerry Pinkney. Below are some recommended criteria for selecting a version to read.