Must Read Title for All Americans

It has been eight years since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. During that time we have heard many inspirational stories about bravery, courage, compassion, patriotism and sacrifice. Most of these stories fill us with pride and hope. Many of these stories remind us of the greatness of this country and the brotherhood we share as citizens of the United States of America.

Today, I received a new picture book called 14 Cows for America by Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah and Carmen Agra Deedy. It is the tale of how the Maasai, people of Africa came to know of our tragedy and their gift of healing, given freely to the people of a nation that they will never see.

To the Maasai, the cow is life. They sing to them, they give them names, they shelter the young ones in their homes. Without the herd, the tribe might starve.

Kimeli, was a student in America, when the events of September 11th unfolded. Later that year he returned home to tell the tale of tragedy to his tribe. The elders of this tribe of peaceable nomadic cattle herders were stirred to compassion for a people far away.

An American diplomat is summoned and the Maasai meet him in full tribal splendor for a ceremony, a sacred ritual to present, as a gift of healing and blessing, 14 cows. The book ends with this powerful quote:

Because there is no nation so powerful it cannot be wounded, or a people so small they cannot offer mighty comfort.

When I read this book, I cried, sitting right at my desk in the middle of the library. These 14 cows will never be slaughtered, they will continue to be a symbol of hope from the Maasai to us, the citizens of America. A powerful and beautiful book that we should share with those we love, because as Americans we should know about this beautiful gift given to us to help us heal and remember.

Michele, Children's Librarian