This is the true story of Kofi, a young West African boy who is very intelligent. However, he cannot climb trees like the other boys because he is afraid of heights. This poses a problem because in his culture, climbing to the tops of the highest coconut trees is the coming of age ceremony for a young man. This story tells about Kofi trying to overcome his fear with the help of his best friend, Dan, and it has a well-deserved ending.

I loved the color photographs showing the everyday lives of the young men portrayed in this story. They are so full of live and love to explore!

For an extension, I would have the students journal about something of which they are afraid. If they would like to share why, they may do so. Another extension would be to make our own drums out of coffee cans and brown paper for the classroom. ( )