Creating Easy Reader Books for Ethiopia's Young Learners

What kid doesn't love books?

Many rural Ethiopian children lack access to books- especially age-appropriate books in their mother tongue. This is why WEEMA International is beyond thrilled to be working with Jane Kurtz and Caroline Kurtz (Ready Set Go Books) to create fun, colorful, culturally-approriate books for beginner readers.

10 beautiful stories have been written, illustrated and printed! Each story has been translated into at least 3 languages- English, Amharic, and the local language of Tembarsa (with some already translated in Kembatissa and Oromo as well!) Most stories are based on Ethiopian proverbs or folktales, and the carefully drawn pictures depict images very familiar to Ethiopian children.

WEEMA's team will be delivering 750 books to kindergartens, libraries and schools this April. During these visits, we will be assessing the books for reading level, interest, and student engagement.

This book program is just the beginning! We look forward to taking it to scale with the dedication and passion of Ready Set Go Books and our new partner, Open Heart Big Dreams.