About Koku

Donna “Kokumo” Buie — known to children everywhere as Mama Koku — is a professional storyteller, teaching artist, and literacy advocate with decades of experience bringing stories to life for audiences of all ages.

Koku has performed at schools, libraries, museums, festivals, and community organizations across the country. Her performances weave together African, African-American, and world folk tales with humor, music, and audience participation that keeps children on the edge of their seats.

A passionate believer in the power of the spoken word, Koku designs every program to align with literacy standards and curriculum goals — so teachers and librarians get an unforgettable experience that also supports learning.

Koku is also known for her small but pivotal role in the film The Color Purple. If you book a performance and can recite one of her five crucial-to-the-plot lines, she'll give you a 10% discount!