The Boy Who Read Newspapers
Co-Founder and Executive Director, James Musyoka, grew up in rural Kenya where few books were available. Eager to learn, James found anything he could to practice reading, even the old newspapers used to wrap goat meat. Daily he walked barefoot for miles to school and at home he studied by lantern. His dream to someday see a library was realized and more. James studied hard, graduated from university, and helped start a mobile library that now makes books available for children throughout Kenya.
The Boy Who Read Newspapers is an inspiring story based on the true life of author James Musyoka and illustrated by acclaimed artist Julia Cairns. 100% of proceeds benefit the literacy work of Kenya Connect.
Praise for “The Boy Who Read Newspapers”
“My friend James’ The Boy Who Read Newspapers is an homage to his love of reading and learning. The straightforward, relatable narrative and rustic beauty of Julia Cairns’ illustrations tells the story of a determined Kenyan boy who never lost his inspiration to read, and it encourages other kids to work hard toward reaching their own dreams.”
Kwame Alexander, Emmy Award-winning producer and New York Times best-selling author
“The Boy Who Read Newspapers is a beautiful testament to the transformative power of literacy. It reminds us how stories open our eyes to the world and inspire change. With curiosity and a supportive community, there’s almost nothing we can’t achieve. It’s a heartfelt and inspiring read that stays with you long after the final page.”
Amber Peterson, LitWorld
Attention Teachers and Librarians!
We invite you to use these ideas for teaching The Boy Who Read Newspapers with your class or at a library program.
NBC News Daily Show Interview!
James and Sharon had the opportunity to introduce “The Boy Who Read Newspapers” and discuss some of the work that Kenya Connect is doing to encourage literacy. Here is a recording of the Modern Parenting segment of NBC News on Monday, April 14, 2025. https://www.nbcnews.com/now/video/new-children-s-book-encourages-literacy-and-education-237398597582