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The Banana-Leaf Ball: How Play Can Change the World

After escaping the war in his country of Burundi, Deo lives in Lukole refugee camp in Tanzania along with thousands of others. With resources at the camp stretched thin, boys form gangs and steal food from others. Although Deo tries to keep to himself, he is bullied by Remy and his gang, who steal the twine Deo is using to make a banana-leaf ball. Soon Deo has a chance to play, however, when a man with a real soccer ball organizes a game for the boys in the camp. Placed on the same team, Remy and Deo play well together. They form a tentative friendship, teaching each other new soccer skills, making banana-leaf balls, and eventually sharing memories of their homes and families. Extensive notes about the man who inspired the story, organizations and games that promote teamwork, and ways to help follow this story of children building trust and friendships through play. ©2017 Cooperative Children's Book Center

Illustrated by Shane W. Evans

CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 7-10
Age Range: PreK-Early Elementary (Ages 4-7) Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Format: Picture book
Subjects: Burundians Creativity Friendship Memory Refugees Resiliency Sports
Diversity subject: Black/African

Publishers: Kids Can, Citizen Kid
Publish Year: 2017
Pages: 32
ISBN: 9781771383318

CCBC Location: Picture Book, Milway