One Hen and Then: The Story of a Small Loan and a Big Dream

Adapted from the bestseller One Hen and inspired by a true story, this picture book about a determined boy with a plan brings the concept of microfinance to life.

Kojo’s family doesn’t have much. But Kojo has big dreams and one big idea. It starts with him borrowing money to buy a fluffy white hen. The hen provides his family with eggs, and even some extras he can sell at the market. With the money he makes, Kojo pays back his loan and buys more hens. More hens mean more eggs to sell. With the profits from the egg sales, he can pay his school fees and then go to college, where he learns more about raising chickens. And, in time, Kojo’s dreams come true: He becomes the owner of a thriving business - and the person who can help other big dreamers in his community.

Adapted from the bestselling book One Hen, which was inspired by the real-life experiences of Dr. Kwabena Darko, this picture book, written by award-winning authors Katie Smith Milway and Mary Beth Leatherdale, presents an easy-to-understand explanation of microfinance for younger readers. Through a relatable main character and a step-by-step narrative, the accessible story describes how one small loan can uplift an entire community. Colorful illustrations by Tequitia Andrews help to clarify the concepts and add texture and visual appeal. This book is part of the popular CitizenKid collection of books aligned to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Adapted to suit a younger audience aged 5-8, One Hen and Then is an excellent accompaniment to lessons on global communities, mathematics and basic money management. Back matter includes a note from Dr. Darko, more about microfinancing, resources and questions for discussion.

Katie Smith Milway is the bestselling, award-winning author of One Hen and several other books in the CitizenKid collection. She has served on the board of World Vision U.S., coordinated community development programs in Latin America and Africa for Food for the Hungry International, and written several adult books on sustainable development in addition to working as senior advisor at The Bridgespan Group and principal at MilwayPLUS. A graduate of Stanford University, Katie spent a decade working in and around a dozen countries in Africa on sustainable development projects. She is based in Boston, Massachusetts.
Mary Beth Leatherdale is an award-winning author and editor of books for children and youth. Her books have received many starred reviews and have been shortlisted for awards including the SCBWI Golden Kite Award, the Silver Birch Award and the Norma Fleck Award, as well as other accolades. Mary Beth lives in Toronto with her family and her dog, Champ.
Tequitia Andrews is an artist and illustrator from Richmond, Virginia. A graduate of Virginia State University, Tequitia is inspired by fashion, music, pop culture and social issues. Her work has appeared on book covers, greeting cards and products, and she has illustrated several picture books.