The book is diverse and uses a setting that some children may not know about, so it is a good teaching point for the teacher. ( )

This book is about a young boy named Saruni who wants to save up his money for a bike. This book takes place in Tanzania. In the book it shows how his savings are growing, and how he organizes the coins into rows and piles. I think this book is great for students because it teaches them the value of money and working hard for the things you want in life. ( )

In my opinion, this is a great book. It shows a different culture, country, language, and the importance of determination. The author teaches the reader common words in the main character's language and describes the life of a boy in Tanzania. The main character, Saruni, reflects his selflessness by helping his mother with the market. He is determined to buy himself a bike and learn how to ride it to help her more. He saves his money every week to buy the bike. Although he was not able to buy one, his determination and selflessness was proven to his parents. In the end, he was able to get the bike, which reads for a great lesson. ( )

This story takes me back to the feeling I had as a child when I would save my change intentionally to buy something special, and I shared a similar sense of purpose and pride that Saruni felt. Although, he was much more selfless in his reason for saving- to help his mother with their daily work. The author builds up anticipation, when will he FINALLY save enough to get that bike, as he repeats the process of emptying his box, arranging the coins, and hoping for his dream bike. Saruni reminds us that sacrifice of our time and energy is so worth it and makes our reward that much sweeter. The illustrations in water color create scenes that come to life- making me feel as if these character are real, as if I know them, as if I am the one desiring to earn that bike to help my own mother. ( )

A boy wants to buy a bike, so he saves every cent that he makes. He wants the bike to help his mom at the market. The tale has many messages about responsibility, accountability, and saving money, He has a worthy cause and a foolproof plan that can't fail, or can it? ( )