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Follow along as I take a journey through the world of children's and teen books! Hear about great new books, undiscovered titles, and old all but forgotten classics.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

14 Cows for America

14 Cows for America (Hardcover)
Author: Carmen Agra Deedy in collaboration with Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah
Illustrator: Thomas Gonzalez
Format: Hardcover picture book
Pages: 29
Recommended Age: 2+


14 Cows For America is a beautiful story of generosity in the wake of September 11th. The story is told by Kimeli, a young man from the remote Maasai tribe in Kenya. When he returns to relate the story of September 11th to his tribe, they offer the humble gift of 14 cows because, "To the Maasai, the cow is life". 

This heartwarming tale is complimented by stunning illustrations in a style reminiscent of African art. It would be a wonderful, gentle way to introduce the topic of September 11th to a child. The book would also be an asset to any elementary classroom. It is a reminder that the world community can and will rally around us in the face of tragedy, as well as a lesson that sometimes the value of a gift lies in the sentiment behind it. After all, what do you give the country that has everything?

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