How often do our stories for children explore sadness, loneliness, and disruption? While these children's books are rare, the reality is all too present for many of our young people. Teen authors Rashaan, Sejal, DaQuan, and Zorita took on this challenging topic through the eyes of Larry, the lonely camel. Swept away from his home in Egypt, and left without his family for the first time, Larry finds himself living in the National Zoo in Washington, DC. Tunechi, a friendly hippo, welcomes Larry to the zoo family. A rapper, Larry overcomes his stage fright to share his story. But, how will the other zoo animals receive him?

The authors of this story are part of an innovative program run by Reach Incorporated. Reach develops grade-level readers and capable leaders by preparing teens to serve as tutors and role models for younger students, resulting in improved literacy outcomes for both. Learn more at reachincorporated.org. Books were created in collaboration with Shout Mouse Press. Shout Mouse is a nonprofit writing program and publishing house for unheard voices. Learn more at shoutmousepress.org