Book details
14 Cows for America
Description
This New York Times bestseller recounts the true story of the touching gift bestowed on the US by the Maasai people in the wake of the September 11 attacks.In June of 2002, a mere nine months since the September 11 attacks, a very unusual ceremony begins in a far-flung village in western Kenya. An American diplomat is surrounded by hundreds of Maasai people. A gift is about to be bestowed upon the American men, women, and children, and he is there to accept it. The gift is as unexpected as it is extraordinary.Hearts are raw as these legendary Maasai warriors offer their gift to a grieving people half a world away. Word of the gift will travel newswires around the globe, and for the heartsick American nation, the gift of fourteen cows emerges from the choking dust and darkness as a soft light of hope―and friendship.With stunning paintings from Thomas Gonzalez, master storyteller Carmen Agra Deedy (in collaboration with Naiyomah) hits all the right notes in this elegant story of generosity that crosses boundaries, nations, and cultures.
Age
6-10
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
36 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: '14 Cows for America' offers readers a unique perspective on global compassion and understanding, showcasing how the Maasai people of Kenya responded to the 9/11 attacks in the United States with a heartfelt gesture of solidarity.
- Historical Significance: The book provides a touching narrative that captures a lesser-known story from the aftermath of a major historical event, allowing readers to explore the interconnectedness of different societies in times of crisis.
- Illustrations and Artwork: The book features beautiful and evocative illustrations by Thomas Gonzalez that enhance the storytelling and bring the Maasai culture and their gift to vivid life, making it a visual as well as an educational experience.
- Values and Empathy: Reading '14 Cows for America' can help cultivate values such as empathy, generosity, and kindness in readers of all ages. It demonstrates the power of compassion and the importance of reaching out to others, even across continents and cultural divides.