Suuban’s First Day: A First Day of Herding Story

K-Gr 2–A gentle, thoughtful read-aloud about patience and responsibility. Suuban is part of a nomadic tribe in the desert of Somalia, where her life revolves around helping her family, caring for animals, and spending time with her grandmother. Suuban cannot wait for her front teeth to fall out, which will signify that she’s finally old enough to take the goats to drink on her own. With this story, Salh (who, like her protagonist, grew up in a nomadic community in Somalia) invites young listeners to see that being “ready” isn’t about age but about responsibility. The book naturally opens the door for conversations about patience, familial roles, and how children around the world help in different ways. Ònájìn’s illustrations are bright and warm, filled with sandy desert colors that feel alive and loving, especially in scenes between Suuban and her grandmother. Somali words are thoughtfully incorporated in the text; educators might practice pronunciation ahead of time for a smooth read-aloud. The author’s note is a helpful bonus, adding background that can support broader discussions.