Suuban's First Day - by Shugri Salh (Hardcover)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

In the Somali desert, a girl eagerly awaits the day she can herd the goats by herself. But her grandmother won't allow her into the wilderness until her two front teeth fall out.

Patiently, Suuban waits, and waits...until she can't wait anymore! After some creative thinking and a head bump from a goat to help loosen her front tooth, Suuban is ready to prove she can herd the animals across the desert safely. But with sneaky foxes prowling about, will Suuban learn the resilience she needs to protect her goats?

This gorgeously illustrated picture book is a joyful celebration of the Somali desert and a nomadic lifestyle, in a relatable tale of self-reliance, courage, and the beauty of nature.

Review Quotes

★ "An utterly enticing tale of independence, growth, and familial bonds." -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review

★ "A child grows into new responsibilities around the rhythms of the natural world in this captivating tale...based on the author's childhood in the deserts of Somalia." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review

"A sweet lapsit for kiddos excited to take on a new task." -- The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"Cute illustrations buoy this charming tale of childhood innocence." -- Booklist

About the Author

Shugri Salh is author of the memoir The Last Nomad and a supporting actor in the Apple TV+ "Little America" episode set in an immigrant Somali community. She was born in Somalia and spent her early years living with her grandmother in the desert as a nomad. After the civil war broke out in her home country, she emigrated to North America. She attended nursing school at Pacific Union College and graduated with honors. When she isn't writing or telling stories, she works as a nurse. Shugri Salh lives in San Diego with her husband and three children.

Àlàbá Ònájìn is a graphic novelist and illustrator from Lagos, Nigeria where he lives with his family. He was chosen as one of the artists for the UNESCO Women in African History project. He is the author-illustrator of Waaa Waaa Goes Tawá and Suuban's First Day.