What's the difference between:
- a lecture and a debate?
- a frozen pizza and one freshly made, and hot out of the oven?
- watching a movie based on a book and reading the actual book?
- a trip to the zoo and an African safari?
Well, to me, it's all about the authenticity. While it might be easier to listen to a lecture, pop a frozen pizza in the oven, watch a movie, and take a trip to the zoo, couldn't we learn so much more from the latter alternatives?
Most of us can only dream about going on an African safari, but what if there was a way to travel to Africa without the time and expense of actually getting there? Well, there is. You probably know what I'm going to say. We can bring that dream to life through books.
While nonfiction certainly breathes life into just about any topic, there's so much to be said for fiction that is based upon authentic experiences. A little imagination can go a long way, especially when it comes to young readers.
That's why I'd like to end this peace series with a picture book that will take people of all ages on a journey they will never forget: First Come the Zebra
What can we learn about peaceful coexistence from the wild animals of Kenya and two young boys? You'll be pleasantly surprised, I assure you.
As the zebra, the wildebeest, and the gazelle share the land, two young boys learn that it's okay for them to do so as well. You see, one is Maasai (a cattle herder) and one is Kikuyu (a farmer); and these two groups have been competing for the land for a long time. It is through a couple of brief encounters that Abaani and Haki realize that they are so much more alike than different, and that they have so much to offer each other.
An act of heroism brings the two boys together, and they gradually become friends. They play the ancient game of Mancala together, and then realize that, like the wild animals, they too can share the land. In trading fruits and vegetables for milk, they gain new hope for the future of their people.
There's an author's note at the end of this extraordinary children's book, which provides a lot of information relating to the people of Kenya, as the author learned through a 2007 visit. You'll also find a complete list of her sources of information, as well as a "pronunciation guide and glossary."
It's not often that an author is able to weave so many ideas, and subtle life lessons, into one picture book. Readers of all ages will be left thinking, wondering, and wanting to know more. There's truly something in it for everyone.
We talk about the importance of eating "whole foods," and nurturing "the whole child," but I'd like to suggest that we also try to read "whole books." Those are the books that touch us in ways we can't always explain, and challenge us to be better people. First Come the Zebra is one of those books for me. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Here are some previous posts which you might also enjoy:
Please note that posts will be very light for the next couple of weeks. Enjoy the holiday season!
