★ “This simple story of discovery, sport, and friendship is filled with likable characters and innocently joyful moments...Delightful.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Kenyan orphans, Kitoo and Nigosi, spend their days studying, playing soccer, helping their elders with chores around the orphanage and reading from the limited selection of books in their library. When the librarian gives Kitoo a copy of Sports Around the World he becomes fascinated by an image of the Canadian national men's ice hockey team. Then one day the fates align and Kitoo finds a pair of beat up old roller blades, he teaches himself to skate and dreams of one day playing hockey like the men in his book. But you can’t play ice hockey in Kenya, can you?
Kenyan orphans, Kitoo and Nigosi, spend their days studying, playing soccer, helping their elders with chores around the orphanage and reading from the limited selection of books in their library. When the librarian gives Kitoo a copy of Sports Around the World he becomes fascinated by an image of the Canadian national men's ice hockey team. Then one day the fates align and Kitoo finds a pair of beat up old roller blades, he teaches himself to skate and dreams of one day playing hockey like the men in his book. But you can’t play ice hockey in Kenya, can you?
★ “This simple story of discovery, sport, and friendship is filled with likable characters and innocently joyful moments...Delightful.”
– Kirkus Reviews, starred review
“I quite enjoyed this book about Kitoo and his friend best Nigosi. The pair have a great friendship, encouraging each other to be the best, while embracing their differences and their similarities.”
– Book Time blog
“Offers a good starting point for children in learning about and discussing different cultures. Playful black and white, full and half-page illustrations provide moments to stop and reflect upon the boys’ life, friendship and adventures. Recommended.”
– CM: Canadian Review of Materials
“Uplifting and welcome. The book allows young readers to learn about life in an orphanage in rural Kenya.”
– Sal's Fiction Addiction
CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens, starred selection | 2021 | Commended
Forest of Reading Silver Birch Express Award | 2022 | Short-listed
BC Books for BC Schools | 2021 | Commended
