Culture Sports, Friendship, and Community Score in Hockey Night in Kenya written by Danson Mutinda and Eric Walters, illustrated by Claudia Dávila.
- Mikayla Young
- May 8
- 7 min read
Hockey Night in Kenya offers a fresh, inspiring story that combines sports, culture, and friendship in a way that resonates beyond the ice rink. This book, written by Danson Mutinda and Eric Walters and brought to life through Claudia Dávila’s illustrations, invites readers into a world where hockey becomes a bridge between communities and a source of hope. It’s a story that captures the spirit of teamwork and the power of dreams in a setting not often associated with ice hockey.
Book Information
Title: Hockey Night in Kenya
Authors: Danson Mutinda and Eric Walters
Illustrator: Claudia Dávila
Publisher: Orca
Publication Date: September 8, 2020
Genre: Contemporary, Sports Fiction
Age Category: Middle Grade, 6+
Formats Available: ebook, paperback
Format: Novel
Format Read in: Libby E-book
Representation and Themes: Resilience, friendship, self-discovery, the power of dreams, overcoming barriers, community support, and the spirit of youth.
Read Around the World: Setting - Kenya, Author - Kenya, Author- Canada, Illustrator - Chile
Book Synopsis
In Kenya, orphans Kitoo and Nigosi navigate life in an orphanage filled with hope and camaraderie. Their days are marked by laughter, soccer, and community warmth. Kitoo's life changes when the librarian gives him Sports Around the World, sparking his imagination with the image of the Canadian men's ice hockey team. Inspired, he dreams of playing hockey. Discovering old roller blades, he teaches himself to skate, envisioning a future in hockey. Despite the lack of ice rinks, Kitoo's passion drives him to overcome geographic and circumstantial barriers. Join him on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and dreams in Hocky Night in Kenya, a tale of resilience and the unbreakable spirit of youth.
My Reading Log, Rating, and Review
Reading Log:
Day 1: May 6, 2026 page 47 ( read 47 pages)
Day 2: May 8, 2026 page 87 (read 40 pages)
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ .5 (4.5 stars)
Review:
The characters in the story are exceptionally well-developed, showcasing a diverse range of traits that make them both funny and smart, while also being incredibly relatable to readers of all ages. At the center of this narrative is Kitoo, a hardworking and caring young boy who embodies the spirit of imagination and dreams. His character is not only humorous but also deeply thoughtful, often reflecting on his aspirations and the challenges he faces. Kitoo's journey is one of resilience and determination, making him a role model for young readers who may find themselves in similar situations.
The side characters, particularly Nigosi and the orphanage workers, play a crucial role in creating a supportive and nurturing environment around Kitoo. They contribute to a dynamic that fosters friendship and camaraderie, illustrating the importance of community in overcoming obstacles. Their interactions with Kitoo are filled with warmth and humor, providing comic relief while also reinforcing the themes of care and support throughout the book. This sense of community extends beyond Kitoo's immediate circle, reflecting a broader network of relationships that enrich his life and experiences.
The settings depicted throughout Africa are nothing short of wonderful. The authors have crafted vivid and well-described landscapes that transport readers to various locations across the continent. Each place Kitoo visits is portrayed with a sense of realism, allowing readers to grasp not only the beauty of these settings but also the cultural nuances that define them. The narrative educates readers about Africa's diverse cultures, traditions, and the realities faced by its inhabitants, making the journey both enlightening and engaging.
The writing style is a delightful blend of humor, education, and storytelling prowess. The authors have managed to create a narrative that is not only entertaining but also rich in educational content. Readers will find themselves laughing at Kitoo's antics while simultaneously learning about important topics such as friendship, sportsmanship, and the significance of support systems. The plot unfolds in a realistic manner, peppered with moments of adventure and humor that keep readers engaged and invested in Kitoo's journey.
Moreover, the book offers invaluable lessons about Africa, its vibrant cultures, the realities of orphanages, and the universal themes of friendship and support. The incorporation of sports, particularly field hockey, serves as a metaphor for teamwork and perseverance, encouraging readers to pursue their passions despite any barriers they may face.
The illustrations throughout the book are a perfect complement to the text, bringing the characters and their personalities to life in a vivid manner. These visual elements enhance the storytelling experience, allowing readers to connect more deeply with Kitoo and his friends as they navigate their adventures.
While the book is a remarkable and inspiring read, one minor drawback is the absence of a glimpse into Kitoo's future. Readers may find themselves yearning to know if Kitoo eventually plays hockey outside of Africa or if he embarks on further travels that broaden his horizons. It would be fascinating to see how his journey inspires others to take up field hockey and pursue their dreams, creating a ripple effect of motivation and aspiration.
In conclusion, "Hockey Night in Kenya" by Danson Mutinda and Eric Walters is a wonderful, impactful, and educational read that is perfect for those looking to explore Africa through the lens of adventure. It is especially recommended for young readers eager to learn about the world and the spirit of sportsmanship. The story not only entertains but also inspires, making it a valuable addition to any child's reading list.
Discussion Questions
What challenges do Kitoo and Nigosi face in their lives at the orphanage? How do these challenges shape their characters?
How does Kitoo's discovery of the book "Sports Around the World" influence his dreams and aspirations? What does this suggest about the power of literature?
In what ways does hockey serve as a metaphor in the story? How does it represent teamwork and community support?
Discuss the role of friendship in the book. How do Kitoo and Nigosi support each other throughout their journey?
What cultural elements are presented in the story? How do they contribute to the overall narrative and character development?
How does the setting of Kenya impact the story? What unique challenges does Kitoo face due to his environment?
What lessons can readers learn from Kitoo's resilience and determination? How can these lessons be applied in real life?
How do the illustrations by Claudia Dávila enhance your understanding of the story? Which illustrations stood out to you the most?
What do you think is the significance of Kitoo teaching himself to skate/rollerblade? How does this reflect on his character?
How does the story convey the importance of community support in achieving one's dreams?
Activities
Character Mapping: Create a character map for Kitoo and Nigosi, noting their traits, challenges, and growth throughout the story.
Dream Board: Have readers create a visual representation of their own dreams and aspirations, similar to Kitoo's dream of playing hockey.
Community Circle: Organize a group discussion where readers can share their own experiences of friendship and community support, relating it back to the book.
Ice Hockey Basics: Research the basics of ice hockey and hold a mini ice hockey game or a field hockey session to understand the sport better.
Book Review Presentation: After reading, have students prepare a short presentation or poster about their thoughts on the book, including their favorite parts and characters.
Illustration Activity: Encourage readers to illustrate their favorite scene from the book, focusing on how they imagine the characters and setting.
Cultural Exploration: Research and present on a cultural aspect of Kenya, such as traditional games, music, or food, to enhance understanding of the setting.
Letter to Kitoo: Have readers write a letter to Kitoo offering him advice or encouragement based on their own experiences and dreams.
Role-Playing: Organize a role-playing session where readers can act out scenes from the book, exploring character motivations and emotions.
Reflection Journal: Encourage readers to keep a journal throughout the reading process, noting their thoughts, feelings, and reflections on the themes of the story.
About the Authors and Illustrator
Danson Mutinda
Danson Mutinda is a Kenyan author and storyteller who brings authentic African voices to children’s literature. His work often focuses on themes of culture, community, and resilience. Mutinda’s background and experiences enrich the story of Hockey Night in Kenya, making it a genuine reflection of Kenyan life and aspirations.
Eric Walters, a celebrated Canadian author, captivates young readers with his engaging stories, often collaborating with other writers to create accessible tales like "Hockey Night in Kenya." His literary journey began in 1993, inspired by his Grade 5 class to write "Stand Your Ground," sparking a prolific career with 104 novels and picture books. His works, acclaimed and awarded over 100 times, including the Ontario Library Association Silver Birch and Red Maple Awards, have international appeal, earning accolades like the Children's Africana Book Award and the Sakura Medal. Walters reaches over 1.5 million students through dynamic presentations, drawing from his experiences as a parent, teacher, social worker, and coach to craft realistic characters. Before writing, he was a social worker and taught until 2006. In 2013, he received an honorary degree from Wilfred Laurier University and, with his wife Anita, founded The Creation of Hope, aiding over 400 orphans in Kenya. In 2015, he was honored with the Order of Canada for his contributions to literacy and social justice. Residing in Guelph, Ontario, Walters continues to plan new adventures.
Claudia Dávila is an illustrator and author of graphic novels and children’s books. Throughout her career, Claudia has illustrated over 30 books, in English and French and translated to multiple languages. Claudia’s graphic novels Luz Sees the Light and Luz Makes a Splash, which won the 2012 Green Earth Book Award and 2013 Green Earth Prize for Sustainable Literature respectively, feature urban kids who deal with energy, climate and water issues locally. Her picture book Super Red Riding Hood, which was the 2016 Forest of Reading Blue Spruce Honour Book Winner, features a brave girl whose superpower is friendship and empathy.
Born in Chile, Claudia now makes her home in Toronto on Turtle Island with her husband, artist Michael Cho, and their two children.
Where to Buy the Book
Hockey Night in Kenya is available through several channels:
Local Bookstores: Check with independent bookstores that carry children’s literature or multicultural books
Libraries: Many public libraries offer copies for borrowing or digital lending
Buying this book supports diverse storytelling and encourages young readers to explore new cultures and sports.
Conclusion
"Hockey Night in Kenya" is more than just a story about sports; it is a powerful narrative that highlights the importance of dreams, resilience, and community. Through the journey of Kitoo and Nigosi, readers are invited to explore the rich tapestry of Kenyan culture while also reflecting on universal themes of friendship and support. The collaboration between Danson Mutinda, Eric Walters, and Claudia Dávila results in a beautifully illustrated and thoughtfully written book that resonates with readers of all ages. This tale not only entertains but also inspires young minds to pursue their passions, no matter the obstacles they may face. As we close this discussion, it becomes clear that "Hockey Night in Kenya" is a significant addition to children's literature, encouraging a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and the spirit of sportsmanship. It is a book that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on its readers.
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