14 Cows for America

A New York Times Best Seller

This now-classic picture book recounts the true story of a touching gift bestowed on the United States by a tribe of Maasai Warriors in the wake of the September 11th attacks.

“Lovely… beautifully evocative.” ―Nicholas Kristof, The New York Times

“Moving and dramatically illustrated.” ―The Wall Street Journal

“Elegant…suspenseful…The colors of Kenya explode off the page.” ―School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

 In June of 2002, 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. A mere nine months have passed since the September 11 attacks, and hearts are raw. Tears flow freely from American and Maasai as these legendary warriors offer their gift to a grieving people half a world away. Word of the gift will travel newswires around the globe. Many will be profoundly touched, but for Americans, this selfless gesture will have deeper meaning still. For a heartsick nation, the gift of fourteen cows emerges from the choking dust and darkness as a soft light of hope—and friendship.

Best Children’s Books of the Year (Starred) – Bank Street College of Education

Notable Books for a Global Society – International Reading Association

E.B. White Read-Aloud Honor – Association of Booksellers for Children

Parents’ Choice Gold Award – Parents’ Choice Foundation

Teacher’s Guide available!

Age Range:  6 - 10                                                                                                              Lexile Reading Level:  AD540L