Review Detail

5.0 1

14 Cows for America

Kids Fiction 446

A more gentle introduction to 9/11

December 27, 2016 (Updated: June 12, 2026)

Overall rating

3.5

Plot

4.0

Characters

N/A

Writing Style

N/A

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

3.0

This picture book details a real-life occurrence in the aftermath of the 9/11 devastation. The coauthor, Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah, visited his home in Africa while he was studying to be a doctor in the US. He told his tribe about the events of 9/11, and they were so moved that they decided to dedicate 14 cows to the US, since cows meant life to the Masai. This gesture of healing and hope was witnessed by the US ambassador, and the cows remain in Africa, where the herd has increased in size and is still held as a sacred gift.

Good Points

The pictures have a dark, dream like quality to them, especially when Kimeli is telling his unbelievable story of tall buildings and clouds of fire and ash. The mood is lightened a little, as is evident by the flashes of red as the celebration the ambassador attends. In general, the dark tones echo the sadness of the event.

The text is simple and a great way to introduce the topic to younger children, who may have heard
about the two towers but are not ready for too many details.

While there have been many books detailing the events of that day, such as Kalman's Fireboat, Aubin's The Survivor Tree, and Brown's American is Under Attack, it is interesting to get a more global perspective. Many schools study 9/11, especially since students today were almost all born after the event.