For You Are a Kenyan Child

written by Kelly Cunnane and illustrated by Ana Juan
age range- 3-7 years

After the rooster crows and the sun rises over eucalyptus trees filled with doves, a young Kalenjin boy eats his morning maize porridge. After breakfast, his Mama sends him to tend to Grandfather's cows. In the fresh morning air, the boy feels the pull of adventure and leaves the cows. Although he intends to only be gone for a moment, he finds the day full of excitement and friends. Chasing monkeys, visiting the village chief, drinking milk sweetened with crushed charcoal fresh from a gourd, and having a bug for a snack are a few of the day's activities. Will trouble finally catch up to him when he realizes that he has left the cows alone for so long?

This is such an immensely satisfying picture book; the illustrations are rich and clear and the text is lyrical. There is a certain musical quality to the writing in this book. Peppered with Swahili, it is so easily imagine oneself in a small village in this beautiful country. For You Are a Kenyan Child illustrates the aspects in which we are different, but more importantly, the ways in which we are alike.