Description

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Eleven-year-old Solomon loves to run! The Ethiopian national team are his heroes and he dreams of being a gold-medal winner like themt. When his grandfather announces he's going to take Solomon to Addis Ababa, Solomon cannot believe his ears. His joy increases when he realizes that the Ethiopian running team will be in the city that day. But as Solomon follows his grandfather through the city, he learns something he cannot believe. The strict old man is a war hero who once risked his life to save a friend, and has been in hiding ever since. When grandfather collapses, Solomon must make a 20-mile run to home, his grandfather's life hanging in the balance. Can he do it?

About the Author

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Elizabeth Laird is the multi-award-winning author of such children's books as Kiss the Dust, A Little Piece of Ground, and Shahnameh. She has been shortlisted for the prestigious Carnegie Medal six times.

Praise For…

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"What a delightful gem this book is. Expert touches allow the reader to imagine the Ethiopian setting with ease. . . . Gentle and powerful, this book is a classic tale which younger readers will enjoy and which could be used as an excellent class reader."  —Armadillo

"As with anything [Elizabeth] sets in Ethiopia, a country clearly dear to her heart, this short novel draws the reader into its setting. She is a superb writer, a masterly storyteller."  —Scotsman

"As notable in its way as James D. Forman's historical novels of the late '60s and '70s, A Little Piece of Ground deserves serious attention and discussion."  —School Library Journal on A Little Piece of Ground

"An excellent introduction to Ethiopian culture as well as a wonderfully written exploration of a boy’s love of country and sport." —School Library Journal