Thursday, February 23, 2017

The Banana-Leaf Ball by Katie Milway - ADVISABLE

Milway, Katie Smith The Banana-Leaf Ball, illustrated by Shane W. Evans.  PICTURE BOOK.  Citizen Kid (Kids Can Press), 2017.  $19

When Deo’s family fled their war-ravaged village, he had to leave behind his banana-leaf ball.  Life in the refugee camp was tense and dangerous; Leo spent most of his time trying to survive.  After a volunteer brings a real soccer ball to the camp and organizes play, Deo remembers his old ball and the kids in the camp bond over making and playing their new balls.

Based on a true story, the newest Citizen Kids book brings a new dimension to the lives of refugee children.  The text on each page is rather wordy – this is not meant to be read by a child alone, but together with a teacher or other adult.  It will be a very rewarding experience, especially in combination with a humanitarian project of some kind.

EL, MS – ADVISABLE.  Cindy, Library Teacher

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