A Collection of Songs, Stories, and Traditions

Joof Farah, Becca Buck, Qorsho Hassan

The Rhythm of Somalia is a delightful collection of songs, games, and stories of the Somali people, as shared by more than a dozen elementary students and families living in the metro region of Minnesota where authors Qorsho Hassan and Becca Buck teach.

Like the other books in the World Music Initiative series, this collection provides important historical and cultural context for each song or game, along with photographs and illustrations, offering a glimpse into the depth and beauty of Somali culture and its traditions.

Each selection includes notation, translations, phonetic pronunciations, and optional ideas for pedagogical extensions. The book’s companion website also features audio pronunciation guides, videos of the children sharing their songs and games, and links to additional online resources.

With themes of family, faith, tradition, and joy, the songs and games in this resource offer students, teachers, and parents the opportunity to engage with this beautiful culture and community in an authentic and culturally responsive way.