About BC Books Online
BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
A quick tip: When reviewing the "Browse by Category" listings, please note that these are based on standardized BISAC Subject Codes supplied by the books' publishers. You will find additional selections, grouped by theme or region, in our "BC Reading Lists."
Description
★ “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?
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 6 to 8
- Grade:
- 1 to 3
- Reading age:
- 6 to 8
Awards
- Short-listed, Forest of Reading Silver Birch Express Award
- Commended, BC Books for BC Schools
- Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens, starred selection
Editorial Reviews
“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
“Uplifting and welcome. The book allows young readers to learn about life in an orphanage in rural Kenya.”
— Sal's Fiction Addiction
★ “This simple story of discovery, sport, and friendship is filled with likable characters and innocently joyful moments...Delightful.”
— Kirkus Reviews, starred review
“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
