STORIES from Africa came to life in Alloa last week as a group of primary school children joined Chief Chebe to help launch his latest book.

The author and musician, who hails from Ghana, was at the Speirs Centre library on Friday, June 2, to launch his book Uncle A and the Aliens.

With a strong environmental message, it was the perfect book for children at Park Primary School who joined in for what turned out to be a memorable visit.

Chief Chebe managed to capture the attention and imagination of the young people, who have been visiting the library regularly as the school works in partnership with the service to encourage reading at all levels.

The young people came from P5 classes with principal teacher Mr Paul Hart, who said: “At Park Primary we are always looking for new ways to promote reading, storytelling and writing in our school and school community.

“Having the chance to meet Chief Chebe, and to be invited to the launch, is another example of how our local library can help to encourage the next generation of writers.

“It was fantastic to see just how engaged the pupils were with the stories being told and to explore how they link to the life of the author.

“Both classes look forward to using some of the knowledge that they have gained during the Q&A section of the session.”

Soulay Puliman, also known as Chief Chebe and Frank McChebe, is a gifted and accomplished storyteller and musician who delighted the young people as he brought his new book to life during the visit.

Ian Keane, public librarian, added: “We have worked closely with this particular class over the last year and it has been great to watch them grow in confidence.

“It was our pleasure to give them a lasting memorable visit to their local library.”