The Wooden Camel

‘The Wooden Camel’ is a children’s book by Wanuri Kahiu that tells the story of Etabo, a young boy from the Turkana people of northwest Kenya, who dreams of becoming a camel racer. However, when the price of water rises, Etabo’s father is forced to sell the camels, and his siblings must find work. The story follows Etabo’s journey of love and hope as he navigates the challenges of keeping his dreams alive in the face of adversity. Wanuri Kahiu, an acclaimed Kenyan filmmaker, weaves a universal tale of resilience and determination, centered on the inspiring Turkana people, while Italian illustrator Manuela Adreani brings the story to life with captivating visuals. The book is praised for its gentle and humorous storytelling, offering a message of perseverance and hope for young readers.