This fascinating little book was written by a young man who travelled long distances in Kenya to attend school, spending long stretches of time away from his nomadic family. Eventually, he attended college in the United States and now teaches in the Washington, D.C. area, often leading groups of Americans on trips to Kenya. His is a unique voice to tell Americans what life is like for the Maasai. Late in the book is a fabulous conversation between the author and his mother, who could never really grasp his modern life of travel between Kenya and the United States.
Mater Amabilis suggests a study of Africa in Level 2 Year 2 (fifth grade), and I think this book is perfect for that age, though it's not listed in the syllabus.
It does relate a few difficult experiences. Once the author and a few other boys were tracked by poachers who definitely intended harm, but they ran for almost twelve hours straight to escape. The description of his initiation ceremony is also very clear about the process of circumcision.
The photographs provided by the author in the color insert are wonderful.
My other children did not read this book, but I'm going to assign it to Second Son next year. He reads very quickly so I think I can even add it to the books he'll already be reading without bothering him too much. You can read about some of the other books he'll read in this post.
I have received nothing in exchange for this post. Links to Bookshop and Amazon are affiliate links. I checked this book out from our library.
