Born in a tiny village to simple farmers in Ethiopia, Tekla was marked from birth to be someone special. However, after a fall from a tree crippled him, he seemed to have no future. Despite his disability, Tekla longed to become a priest. On his way to study at a monastery, he encountered a wounded lion. Overcoming his fear, he bandaged the lion's paw and continued on his journey. His kindness was repaid when later this very same lion not only spared his life, but invited him to mount on his back so that he could transport him. The two set out to convert the wild Galla tribesmen to the Christian faith. Tekla's story of persistence, kindness, and courage, set in the exotic background of 13th-century Ethiopia, will capture the attention of young children, as well as those who read to them. +
