First Come the Zebra

September 1, 2009
Gr 2-5-In Kenya, the Maasai are cattle herders and the more numerous Kikuyu are farmers. The two groups often fight about land use. This story uses that age-old conflict as a vehicle for contemplating enmity and friendship. When Abaani, a Maasai boy, sees young Haki's Kikuyu vegetable stall near his family's grazing land, he repeats what he's heard from his elders: "You destroy our land!" Haki, of course, takes offense, and the boys are ready to become enemies. However, they see one another's good qualities when circumstances force them together to rescue a straying toddler. Repeated exposure and a few good games of "mancala" finally bring about a mutual trust, and they take a real step toward peace when they decide to trade veggies for milk, and to introduce their families. A framing metaphor about the harmony between zebra, wildebeests, and the Thomson's gazelle gently reinforces the lesson. Heartfelt storytelling and strong research combine to offer a universal message with a unique setting. The clear, light-filled illustrations are expressive and create a sense of place. A lovely, hopeful story that manages to convey its message with minimal didacticism."Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL"

Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 15, 2009
Grades 1-3 In Kenyas grasslands, we are told, zebras eat the tops of the plants, wildebeests eat the middle sections, and gazelles eat the remaining stalks. A Maasai boy leads the familys cattle to graze. Spotting a Kikuyu boy setting up a new vegetable stall, he taunts him with accusations hes heard from his elders, and the boys quarrel. When warthogs threaten a wandering toddler, though, both boys spring into action to save him. In the end, they become friends, learning to share their land as the animals do. An authors note offers background information about the peoples of Kenya and how their old, hostile attitudes toward one another are beginning to change. A punctuation guide and glossary are appended. While the story may sound a bit purposeful, it is not lacking in drama or human interest. The writing is straightforward, the parallel with the animals is effective, and the ink-and-watercolor illustrations portray the Kenyan countryside with grace and the characters with empathy.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2009, American Library Association.)