by A storytelling girl in Dakar asks what Santa looks like, the westernmost point of Africa, and what a griot is
A Letter to Santa from Dakar, Senegal
Dear Santa,
Salaam Santa! My name is Awa and I am 7 years old. I live in Dakar, in Senegal, a lively city by the Atlantic at the very western edge of Africa. I love singing and listening to my grandmother’s stories. My question is: what does Santa Claus look like? I want to picture you perfectly! My geography question is: what is the westernmost point of mainland Africa? And my social studies question is: what is a griot? Jerejef, Santa!
Love, Awa (age 7)
Santa’s Reply
Ho ho ho, salaam Awa! A girl who loves stories deserves a good description, so picture this. I am a round, jolly old fellow with a long, fluffy white beard and twinkling eyes that crinkle when I laugh. My cheeks are rosy red from the North Pole cold. I wear a bright red coat trimmed with soft white, a matching pointed hat, big black boots, and a wide belt that struggles a little against my cheerful, cookie-filled belly. When I laugh, my whole self shakes with joy. Now you can picture me perfectly.
Your geography question: the westernmost point of mainland Africa
The westernmost point of mainland Africa is found in your own Senegal, at a place near Dakar called Cap-Vert. It is where the great continent of Africa reaches farthest out toward the Atlantic Ocean. Standing there, you are at the very edge of an entire continent. Read more at National Geographic Kids.
Your social studies question: what is a griot
A griot is a respected keeper of history in West Africa, including your own Senegal. Griots remember and share the stories, family histories, and wisdom of their people through spoken word, music, and song. Long before history books, griots carried a community’s whole memory in their hearts. They are living libraries, much like your storytelling grandmother. Explore more at Britannica Kids.
Sing a beautiful song for me, Awa. Yours warmly from the North Pole, Santa Claus.
