The story is set two thousand years ago in a middle eastern village named, Bethel. It is about a giant donkey named, Aba and the young girl, Shamana who raises him. It interweaves the story of a young family whose only child, Jesu is destined to set their world upside down. Aba is entrusted by Shamana to protect Jesu as he grows into manhood. However, Aba's fierce devotion and protective nature is no match for what happens to the one he loves which ultimately has tragic consequences. This leads to Aba's despair. Alone, injured and heartbroken, Aba travels the wilderness to try to find his way back home to the only person left that can heal him, his beloved Shamana. Will he find her?
Go to www.abaandshamana.com for more resources about the world of Aba and Shamana including an original song composed and sung by musician Tal Ornan. Readers can review some of the beautiful sketches depicting scenes from the book by artist Phu Thieu. A fully illustrated version will be made available later in the year.
The idea originated from the desire to draw awareness to three supported charities in the book relating to homeless persons and Cruelty to donkeys and animal cruelty in general. These being: Red Cross Australia; The Donkey Sanctuary; WSPA. Thank you for stopping by author Cynthia L Floriani