It is a captivating story written about Qine and Ethiopia's traditional school system. It is written in compelling manner hence the translation a compelling one. However, what really sets this version apart from the English is that the caution the translator took in translating the English version to make sense as to the Ethiopia 100 years back, which rewinds the leap the Amharic language took by exactly that many years. The translator has used different cautions in trying to do justice to Hiwot Teffera's book and I believe she has succeeded on that regard. Some narrations in the book might seem or sound lame for a person that has gone through the traditional system, but for the new reader such as myself not only is it informational and notable work for a person that wishes to know more about Ethiopia's traditional school system, the story and the way the characters are drawn, the stand they have in life and the wisdom they impart makes this book a wonderful read.
I hope the next reader enjoys too!