A Novel by Ifekimo:
Like a Patchwork of Broken Strings
In "Like A Patchwork of Broken Strings," you embark on a journey alongside Darlene, a young African-American girl, whose poignant tale weaves together the threads of longing, self-discovery, and the resilience of the human spirit.
By Ifekimo Ayetoaje
"Like A Patchwork of Broken Strings" narrates an extraordinary transformation, reminding us that life's circles don't always close perfectly. This moving novel serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and reminds us that even amidst adversity, we possess the power to stitch together a whole life.
By Ifekimo Ayetoaje
“Like A Patchwork of Broken Strings” narrates an extraordinary transformation, reminding us that life’s circles don’t always close perfectly. This moving novel serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and reminds us that even amidst adversity, we possess the power to stitch together a whole life.
Meet The Author:
Ifekimo, a retired early childhood educator with a Master’s Degree in Human Development, has been enchanting audiences with her rich tapestry of folktales for more than four decades. Her storytelling prowess has elevated her to the status of a cherished luminary within the esteemed “Tell Me a Story Workshop,” under the leadership of the renowned Barbara Clark. Here, she consistently captures audiences with her repertoire of both original and deeply personal stories, leaving an indelible mark on hearts and minds alike.
With her extensive background in early childhood education and a deep well of knowledge in Human Development, Ifekimo’s storytelling transcends age boundaries. Her narratives are a bridge between generations, resonating with both children and adults, as she weaves tales that reflect the vibrant mosaic of cultures enriching our world.
Like a Patchwork of Broken Strings
Darlene’s story commences in a small Los Angeles home, where she dreams of a better life. However, when racial tensions ravage her father’s business, her family falls into welfare, and the Watts Rebellion of 1965 shatters their “normal” existence.
Like her father, Darlene possesses a gift for writing. Despite her shyness, she also discovers a growing interest in dancing and boys. Nevertheless, coming of age in South Central Los Angeles proves to be no easy task.
At the age of 16, Darlene crosses paths with Melvin, a young Vietnam veteran, and they fall deeply in love. Together, they embark on a quest for an alternate path, navigating the complex terrain between integration and Black revolution. Later, when her father re-enters her life, she is forced to confront his mental instability.
Books' Reviews
Grandma Chambers’ Quilt Narrative
February 2005
Grandma Chambers’ Quilt Narrative February 2005
“I couldn’t let my children go cold. I could make a quilt out of anything. I make a quilt out of old britches. All they had to tell me they were cold. If I didn’t have old britches, I would sew strings from old clothing on newspaper. It took a long time, but I would make a square and then another, and then another. My children would help. Soon I had a new quilt. We called them, “string quilts.” I could not stand for my children to say they’re cold. And I would set to make ‘em a quilt.”
Featured Recipes:
These are recipes for some of the dishes featured in the book “Like A Patchwork of Broken Strings”.
Ingredients: 3 cups sliced okra⅔ cup vegetable oil2 large onions, chopped6 stalks celery, diced2 tablespoon garlic, minced4 pounds shrimp, peeled
Ingredients: 1 pound dried red beans, soaked in water overnight½ pound salt pork, sliced1 whole onions, chopped½ green pepper, chopped2
Ingredients: 9 ears fresh corn ( white or yellow)¼ cup of canned milk½ cup butter½ onion diced fine½ teaspoon of
Ingredients: 1 large eggplant1 tablespoon olive oil2 garlic cloves, minced1 medium onion, diced4 tablespoons of bread crumbs2 tablespoon of un-cooked
Ingredients: 1 lb. chicken3 cups water2 lbs. fresh spinach, finely cut¼ cup palm oil1 large red onion, diced2 tomatoes, diced3
Ingredients: 8 cups sliced fresh peaches1 ½ cup of white sugar½ cup of brown sugar2 tablespoons cornstarch½ teaspoon ground nutmeg1
Ingredients: 2 cups Unblenched flour1 tsp Salt1 cup of Frozen Butter½ cup of Ice water Cooking Steps: 1. Stir the
Not only did I enjoy this book I devoured it and read it all within a day. Ifekimo book has the ability to appeal to all senses in Her writing. Part of me felt as if I was teleported back in time and or to places I’ve yet to travel to. Another part of me wanted to grub hub them dishes right to my doorstep. More importantly I fell in love with her characters and truly missed them when I finished the book. Congrats on a great debut novel. I hope you plan to give us more!
Tina on "Like a Patchwork of Broken Strings"