One Hen and Then…

The Story of a Small Loan and a Big Dream

Katie Smith Milway with Mary Beth Leatherdale
Illustrated by Tequitia Andrews

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 presents an easy-to-understand explanation of how one small loan can uplift an entire community.

Awards and Praise

“An economic lesson that reads like a fairy-tale and turns out to be true … Outstanding.”
—School Library Journal, *starred review