Kofi, a Child of Lavié

Kofi doesn’t care for the back breaking work of the farm. He would rather be back in the village of mud huts, Lavié, building cars from tin cans, dancing to the rhythms of the nightly drum circle or bathing in the town’s stream. But every day when he is not in school, he and his six siblings must make the two-hour trip in flip flops to clear the African soil and plant the crops his family needs to eat.

Kofi would also prefer to be in school, learning about the great African kings of the past. But school in the country of Togo is not free. It costs one dollar a year per student. Kofi’s parents try everything they can think of to pay those fees for their seven children: turning unsold cassava into more marketable gari, doing logging work, and even, taking a turn as a magician. When Kofi turns thirteen, what he had long been afraid of actually happened; there is no more money to pay the fees. Out of school and facing a future of working on the farm, he despairs. What happens next will tug at your heartstrings as Lavié comes to the rescue in an unexpected way.

Purchase Online:

Amazon US | UK
Barnes & Noble US
iTunes US
Books-a-Million US

Book Reviews

photo by Jeff B.

Great Read for All Ages: “If I were a middle school or high school teacher, I would have my students read Kofi, a Child of Lavie. Not only is the book interesting enough to hold the attention of an eleven or twelve-year-old, it is informative enough to make him or her a better citizen of the world. Most of all, Kofi, a Child of Lavie is a good story. It is the story of the cost of education in the African country of Togo, of the tremendous sacrifices one family makes to ensure that all of its children go to school, of what happens when the $1.00 school fee can’t be met and of the surprising way in which Kofi – very much a child of Lavie, Togo – finds to fund his education for himself. This gentle book that will warm your heart and expand your world.”
– Molly McKitterick

Storytelling at Its Best: “I read Kofi, a Child of Lavie with much interest. The writing was captivating and clear and kept me wanting to know more about this family that was so creative in assuring education for their children. Kofi paints a picture of a place I have never been but can see clearly through his words. His story is an inspiration because of his great courage and his story-telling skills. I recommend this book to anyone who wants or needs to move out of their comfort zone to look at a new reality.”
– Sharon L.

So Many Possibilities: “As an educator in the United States, I am excited for the possibilities this book offers for teachers and students to think and act as global citizens. Kofi, a Child of Lavie offers the opportunity for rich classroom discussions about the value of an education, cultural similarities and differences, and perseverance in the face of adversity. I highly recommend that all educators read this book; it will leave you feeling inspired and taking nothing for granted.”
– Allison D.