Fastest Boy in the World, The

Young Solomon, despite being from a poor Ethiopian village, believes that he can become a world-class runner, just like his heroes on the national team. When his grandfather takes him to Addis Ababa, Solomon cannot believe his good fortune – the national team will be in a parade while he is in the city. His grandfather has other reasons for the trip and Solomon learns an important secret about his grandfather’s past. When grandfather falls ill Solomon must make decisions that test his character and his endurance. An action-packed story of a boy whose passion for sports and dreams of greatness will resonate with children in grades 4 to 6. A useful novel to raise awareness of ethnic and cultural diversity, spark discussion of societal roles of women and men, and affirm and enhance self-esteem through pride in heritage.