Book Overview: "Beatrice's Goat" by Page McBrier

Plot Summary: "Beatrice's Goat" is a heartwarming and educational children's book written by Page McBrier and illustrated by Lori Lohstoeter. The story is based on a true event and follows the life of Beatrice, a young girl from Uganda who dreams of attending school. In her small African village, only children who can afford uniforms and books can go to school, but Beatrice's family is too poor to provide these necessities. However, Beatrice's life changes when she receives a goat named Mugisa ("luck") as a gift from Heifer Project International, a charitable organization that donates livestock to poor communities. The goat provides milk that Beatrice can sell, earning her the money needed to buy the school supplies and eventually attend school. The book beautifully recounts how one simple gift can significantly impact a family's life and how education can be a powerful tool for change.

Key Themes:

1. Education: The book highlights the importance of education and how it can be a transformative force in a child's life.
2. Poverty and Resourcefulness: It showcases how resourceful and determined individuals can overcome poverty through innovative means.
3. Community Support: The story emphasizes the role of charitable organizations like Heifer Project International in supporting communities in need.
4. Animal Husbandry: The book introduces basic concepts of animal husbandry, such as the care and benefits of owning a goat.

Critical Reception: While specific critical reviews are not provided in the search results, the book has been widely praised for its ability to teach children about the value of education, resourcefulness, and community support. The true story format makes it relatable and engaging for young readers. The illustrations by Lori Lohstoeter add a visual element that enhances the narrative, making it an effective tool for both entertainment and education.

Publication Details:

• Author: Page McBrier
• Illustrator: Lori Lohstoeter
• Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
• Publication Date: 2004

Overall, "Beatrice's Goat" is a compelling and inspiring story that not only entertains but also educates children about the importance of education and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges.