C. Behrens

Savanna's Treasure C. Behrens

Children and adults from coast to coast are having their hearts and minds captured by Shamba and Kali - two very different animals whose unlikely friendship can fight the dangers of the world around them. The narrative is a testament to the power of family, kin and passionate perseverance. Despite losing his family, his home, and his best friend, Shamba, an African field mouse, refuses to give up. His courage, determination, and wit help him forge an unlikely friendship with Kali, a baby elephant who also loses her family. Separately, they would surely die. But together, Shamba and Kali brave poachers, out-of-control fires, and savage dogs in one of the wildest places on earth: Africa's Serengeti region. And just when their struggles appear to be over, they find themselves fighting pirates aboard a ship bound for America. Can they survive their toughest battle yet? Or will their incredible journey come to a heartbreaking end? "The lessons and morals of my story directly translate to both the human and animal worlds," explains Behrens. Shamba and Kali's union not only teaches children valuable lessons about embracing even the most unlikely of friendships, but it highlights a wealth of bold issues impacting animals and endangered species. It's all brought to life through stunning illustrations by Kim Johnson." Savanna's Treasure was favorably reviewed in Kirkus Reviews, which called it a "story enriched by an inspiring animal alliance...a good fit for early readers."