Books About Ethiopia

The Best Ethiopia Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about ethiopia? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 7 Favorite Books About Ethiopia

Last Gate of the Emperor
Sale price
$1697
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2021

Last Gate of the Emperor

By Kwame Mbalia, Prince Joel Makonnen · Last Gate of the Emperor series

A game login triggers chaos, revealing a forgotten war and a quest for family.

304 pages
3.9 Goodreads · 630 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Yared Heywat's life in Addis Prime is upended when a game login unleashes chaos, leading to his uncle's disappearance. With only his bionic lioness Besa and rival-turned-ally Ibis, Yared must navigate a world where mythical stories of sky kingdoms and monsters come alive. As he searches for his uncle, Yared discovers he's at the heart of a forgotten, galaxy-spanning conflict. Can he uncover the truth and find his place in this epic battle?
Faraway Home
Sale price
$1615
Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2000

Faraway Home

By Jane Kurtz, E. B. Lewis (Illustrator), E.B. Lewis (Illustrator)

A daughter's fear: will her father choose his past in Ethiopia over their life in America?

32 pages
4.0 Goodreads · 112 ratings
$17.00Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Desta's father is returning to Ethiopia, stirring her fears about where he truly belongs. As he reconnects with his roots, Desta wonders if his love for their American life can bridge the gap between two worlds. Will his journey redefine their family, or will it pull them apart? This poignant tale explores the heart of an immigrant family and the bonds that hold them together.
The Best Beekeeper of Lalibela
Sale price
$1597
Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2006

The Best Beekeeper of Lalibela

By Cristina Kessler, Leonard Jenkins (Illustrator)

A girl defies tradition to become a beekeeper in her village.

32 pages· 1,141 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud
3.9 Goodreads · 113 ratings
$16.95Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: In the Ethiopian village of Lalibela, young Almaz dreams of crafting the finest honey. Despite being dismissed by male beekeepers, she is determined to prove them wrong. Can her ingenuity and resolve overcome tradition and obstacles? Almaz's journey is a testament to perseverance and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.
The Fastest Boy in the World
Sale price
$858
Chapter Book · Ages 7–9 · 2014

The Fastest Boy in the World

By Elizabeth Laird

A young runner races against time to save his grandfather's life.

192 pages· 25,396 words· Est. 4.5 hour read
3.8 Goodreads · 711 ratings
$8.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Eleven-year-old Solomon dreams of athletic glory, but when his grandfather collapses in Addis Ababa, his true test begins. With twenty miles to cover and his grandfather's life at stake, can Solomon's determination and love carry him home in time? Discover the heart-pounding journey of a boy whose spirit outpaces his bare feet.
Fire on the Mountain
Sale price
$1697
Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 1994

Fire on the Mountain

By Jane Kurtz, E.B. Lewis (Illustrator)

A boy must outsmart a wealthy man to secure his future.

40 pages· 1,558 words· Est. 12 min read-aloud
4.5/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 123 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: In the Ethiopian highlands, a young shepherd faces a daunting challenge: survive a freezing night alone in the mountains. When his triumph is dismissed by his wealthy master, he and his sister devise a clever plan to turn the tables. Can they outwit the rich man and claim their rightful reward? Discover a tale of resilience and cunning in 'Fire on the Mountain.'
Ethiopia
Sale price
$2845
Picture Book · Ages 5–9 · 2026

Ethiopia

By Bryan Langdo · Countries of the World series

Three rainy seasons help coffee thrive in a mountainous East African country.

24 pages
3.0 Goodreads · 2 ratings
$29.95Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Ethiopia has three rainy seasons, and coffee and other crops thrive there. This early reader introduces the East African country with leveled text and colorful photos of its terrain, wildlife, people and celebrations. Special features show where it is, its traditional foods and how to say hello in Amharic, and a two-page profile adds more facts.
Only a Pigeon
Sale price
$1520
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1997

Only a Pigeon

By Jane Kurtz, Christopher Kurtz, E.B. Lewis (Illustrator)

A boy releases his pigeon, discovering freedom and beauty.

40 pages· 1,500 words· Est. 12 min read-aloud
3.9 Goodreads · 37 ratings
$16.00Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Young Ondu-ahlem cherishes his pigeon, Chinkay, seeing it as a symbol of pride and freedom. When he releases Chinkay, he embarks on a journey of understanding what it means to truly let go. As he and his friends test their pigeons' loyalty, Ondu-ahlem learns profound lessons about freedom and the bonds that tie us to what we love. Will Chinkay return, or will the bird's flight teach Ondu-ahlem more than he anticipated?
Ages 3–6Picture Book Club

Great books for ages 3–6, every month.

Two hardcover picture books a month, perfect for reading aloud, with coordinated spines for a beautiful shelf.

See the Picture Book ClubFrom $19.95 a box
Books from the Picture Book Club in a Bookroo box