I Want to Ride the Tap Tap - by Danielle Joseph (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Writer Danielle Joseph and illustrator Olivier Ganthier's I Want to Ride the Tap Tap is a day-of-the-week picture book about a Black family who ride the taxi-bus service--called a tap tap--in Haiti, and the fascinating people they meet along the way, illustrated by a Haitian artist known for his vibrant street art.

Monday through Saturday, Claude and Manman walk Papa to the tap tap stop, where Claude meets all sorts of interesting people waiting for the tap tap. Claude wants to join Papa, but Claude has classes at school and chores at home...

On Sunday, Manman and Papa have a surprise for Claude--a ride on the tap tap! They go to the beach, where they meet a lady selling mangoes, a fisherman, a straw-hat maker, a steel drummer, and an artist. They show Claude how to fish, make hats, play the drums, and paint.

With Haitian Creole words sprinkled throughout and a glossary at the end, I Want to Ride the Tap Tap is a warm and lively portrayal of everyday life in Haiti.

Review Quotes

About the Author

Danielle Joseph is the author of the young adult novels Shrinking Violet, Indigo Blues and Pure Red. When she's not writing, you can find Danielle relaxing with her family, traveling, or chasing after her dog, Ringo. Danielle was born in Cape Town, South Africa and currently lives in Maryland with her husband, who is from Haiti, and their three kids.

Olivier Ganthier was born in Pétion-ville, Haiti. He got his degree in fine arts from the National School of Arts (ENARTS) and is inspired by tropical urban life, Afro and Haitian culture. Olivier is art director at Les Ateliers Ganthier and lives in Petionville, Haiti.