Lemong'o Inspires Lower School Teacher's New Book

Following her inspiring grant-funded journey to rural Kenya last May, 2nd-grade teacher Mary Ann Domanska has just published a children's book, Nge and the Magical Drums: Bringing Rain to the Village. Domanska volunteered at Belgrove Primary School in the village of Lemong'o thanks to the Agnes and Sophy Dallas Irwin Foundation, which supports teachers in any pursuit and provides opportunities for renewal, reflection, and personal growth outside the classroom.

“The experience left a lasting impact on me, and I’ve stayed in touch with several teachers,” says Domanska. “The profits from this book will help support them through The Lemong'o Project.”

The children’s book, featuring illustrations by George Amadeus and published by Chalk & Wonder Press, follows a young orphan as he discovers a drumming talent that can summon rain, an important gift in his drought-stricken village. Guided by a wise elephant, a brave lion, and playful monkeys, according to the publisher, “Nge embarks on a rhythmic journey to bring life-giving water to his community.”

“I'm excited to introduce children to the Maasai culture and to continue the invaluable tradition of folktales that teach important life lessons,” says Domanska, who says she’ll share the book with her own students at SCH. “Raising awareness of different cultures through storytelling is something I’m truly passionate about.”

Previously, Domanska published Emic Rizzle, Tinkerer, a middle-grade novel (2016) and a poetry collection titled Unraveled. She was on the board of Mt. Airy Art Garage for seven years, founded/hosted The Swerve, an open mic poetry event, and is now on the executive board of The Lemong’o Project.

Read the Chestnut Hill Local article about the book and join her for our official book launch and signing on Saturday, April 19, 1:30 PM at booked. in Chestnut Hill.