These books are both excellent promotional vehicles for a charitable orphanage in Kenya, and lovely biographical works about the children who live there. Simple stories with a profound kindness and impact, that do a beautiful job of showing how children in this part of Africa live. Neither cloying, nor pitying, and full of hope. ( )

I think that all of the worldly books are a good way of exposing children to different cultures. This is a good way of showing kids what it is like in different cultures. I think it is a good way to show how different cultures function and have a conversation about what it is different and why we think it is that way. ( )

This story of a young girl in an orphanage who finally gets to celebrate her birthday is a touching one. The excitement she shows in the story and anxiousness of having this day for herself to celebrate her life, although she might not be have a family yet, she makes the best out of this day and those who celebrate it with her. ( )

This book is set in an orphanage in Africa. The children are preparing for a joint birthday celebration. What a huge deal for orphans who may, or may not, even know their actual date of birth. It is great for introducing children to other cultures. The characters are so grateful for something most take for granted. A humbling yet sweet story. The illustrations are lovely as well.

The story concludes with pictures of actual orphans participating in the joint party and background about the organization featured in the story. ( )

Mutanu is excited! Anticipation of her birthday gives her spirited joy and a bit of uncertainty. Because Mutanu has never known her true birth date, the orphanage where she lives celebrated a birthday for those who have none. Festivities make this day special and Mutano also realized that she now has a date to consider hers. Knowing adopted children who had no birth date, this fictional story rings true with the global issues with adoption. The illustrations and story exude with the culture of Kenya and the book concludes with information about the Creation of Hope orphanage. Can't wait to share this with my 8 year old granddaughter... a great book for discussion. ( )