Facing the Lion: Growing Up on Maasai on the African Savanna

 

     Facing the Lion: Growing Up Maasai on the African Savanna, was written by Joseph Lemasolai Lekuton. This nonfiction chapter book is about the real life story of a young boy that grew up Kenya. Lekuton automatically draws the reader in by discussing his first encounter with a lion. As a young boy becoming man the responsibilities he carries are far more than your average American student. Throughout the story Lekuton carries you through his typical calendar year. He is responsible for herding the cows and maintaining their safety; as well, as attending school and play soccer. Lekuton was one of the first men to thrive outside of Kenya and obtain a college degree, which is a very difficult thing to do coming from his heritage. This book is an eye opener to new culture, responsibilities and the overall strength a young boy has to better himself. The cover of the book depicts the exact images of a young boy in Kenya.

     After reading  Facing the Lion: Growing Up Maasai on the African Savanna, with my class I would reverse the response questions and have them ask me questions regarding certain things they may not have understood. However, I would still ask them questions like:

• What were your thoughts when Lekuton was encountered by a lion?
• What are some differences and similarities with his schooling and yours?
• What do you think motivated Lekuton to got to college?

     A motivational activity I would have my class do is to create a collage of their favorite parts of the book and present reasons why they chose those events. I would also divide my students up in to groups and have them write a letter to a child living in Kenya asking to learn more about their culture. These activities would broaden my students understating of different cultures and help develop respect for difference.
    
     Joseph Lemasolai Lekuton was born and raised in the African Savanna. Through struggles and life's blessings he was able to obtain his Masters Degree in Educational Policy from Harvard University. He is a great example of an individual that doesn't give up and keeps his culture close to heart.

References

Lekuton, Joseph, L. (2009). Facing the Lion: Growing Up Maasai on the African Savanna. National Geographic Children's Books.

Galda, C. &. (2011). Literature and the Child Seventh Edition . Belmont: Wadsworth Publishing .