BOOKS TO BORROW

The following book is available at many public libraries.

“14 Cows for America” by Carmen Agra Deedy, illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez, in collaboration with Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah, Peachtree, 40 pages

Read aloud: age 6 to 10

Read yourself: age 8 to 10

Kimeli is a Maasai tribesman and Stanford University student. He hasn’t been home in a very long time, but in June of 2002, he returns to his Kenyan village. Kimeli knows his fellow Maasai will be eager for stories, and when they ask him if he has any to share, he nods, then relates the true story of what he witnessed when visiting NYC on September 11, 2001.

The Maasai are stunned, for they are “easily moved to kindness when they hear of suffering or injustice.” Reacting to the sorrow and suffering of Americans half a world away, the compassionate Maasai offer the greatest gift they have — 14 cows for America.

An extraordinary true story of generosity, compassion and hope, “14 Cows for America” is rich on multiple levels for young and old alike. 

LIBRARIAN’S CHOICE

Library: Salem Free Public Library, 264 Hartford Rd., Salem

Library Director: Rachel Gaither

Choices this week: “Three Good Deeds” by Vivian Vande Velde; “Spiderwick Chronicles” series by Tony DiTerlizzi; “Miss Spider’s Tea Party” by David Kirk 

BOOKS TO BUY

“The Most Important Thing: Stories About Sons, Fathers & Grandfathers” by Avi, 2016, 215 pages, $16.99 hardcover

Read aloud: age 9 and older

Read yourself: age 10 and older

Through seven short stories, master writer Avi has crafted a rich work that is certain to strike deep chords with readers, ultimately raising the little-asked question, “What is the most important thing a father can do for his son?”

Seven boys are searching for acceptance and someone to look up to and guide them. That could happen when camping with an estranged grandfather, interviewing a man for the possible position of a dad, or figuring out what the ghost of a deceased father wants his son to do. Sometimes it doesn’t happen the way a boy would like, such as the boy who must find the courage to publicly denounce a false story his father has concocted.

Through these and other powerful stories, readers will emerge with a heightened awareness of what boys really need and identify with the struggles and voices of these seven distinct characters. Equally important for fathers as it is for sons, this is a must-read.

“The Fairiest Fairy” by Anne Booth, illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw, Nosy Crow, 2016, 32 pages, $15.99 hardcover

Read aloud: age 3 to 6

Read yourself: age 6 and 7

Little Betty is having a rough time in fairy school. Although she tries very hard, her pirouettes are wobbly, scattering beautiful dewdrops seems impossible, her spell to wake up every flower doesn’t work at all, and painting rainbows? Well, Betty’s rainbows are squiggly with smeared colors. Soon, the fairy king and queen will hold a Fairy Ball and choose the fairiest fairy of them all. Betty is downcast, thinking she doesn’t stand a chance. Or does she?

A charming book that addresses compassion, empathy, friendship and courage, this selection is just right for younger readers/listeners.

kendal@sunlink.net