Fall 2025

Kofi Goes to the Bank

From the Series Leaders Are Readers

  • Interest Level: Preschool - Grade 2
  • Reading Level: Grade 1

Kofi is a young boy eager to save his money to buy a djembe drum. With the help of his grandfather, Kofi learns the basics of saving by opening his first savings account.

As they visit the bank, Grandpa teaches Kofi how to fill out a deposit slip, and the friendly bank teller, Mr. Kwame, praises Kofi for his diligence, making him feel proud of his efforts.

This engaging story is more than just a fun adventure; it’s a tool to help children begin developing financial literacy skills at an early age. By following Kofi’s journey, young readers will learn the importance of saving, setting goals, and developing healthy money habits. Learning how to manage money not only builds confidence but also empowers children to take responsibility for their own financial futures. With Kofi’s example, kids will understand how their choices around saving and spending can positively impact their lives and contribute to their community, laying a strong foundation for lifelong financial success.

Format Your Price Add
979-8-89605-003-2
On pre-order until 08/01/2025
$21.99
978-1-959223-66-5
On pre-order until 08/01/2025
$9.99
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on library bound hardcovers and all eBook and eBook with Audio editions when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Preschool - Grade 2
Reading Level Grade 1
Category SEL: E Responsible Decision-Making, Social Emotional Learning
Copyright 2025
Publisher Planting People Growing Justice Press
Imprint Planting People Growing Justice Press
Language English
Number of Pages 32
Publication Date 2025-08-01
Text Type Fiction
BISACS JUV009090, JUV039090
Dewey [E]
Dimensions 6 x 9
Guided Reading Level J
Features Author/Illustrator biography, Original artwork, and Teaching Guides

Author: Dr. Artika R. Tyner

Dr. Artika Tyner is a passionate educator, award-winning author, civil rights attorney, sought-after speaker, and advocate for justice. She lives in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and is the founder of the Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute.

Illustrator: Bilal Karaca

Bilal Karaca graduated from the Traditional Turkish Arts Department, Fine Arts Faculty of Selçuk University. He has illustrated various children’s books and magazines.

Lerner eSource™ offers free digital teaching and learning resources, including Common Core State Standards (CCSS) teaching guides. These guides, created by classroom teachers, offer short lessons and writing exercises that give students specific instruction and practice using Common Core skills and strategies. Lerner eSource also provides additional resources including online activities, downloadable/printable graphic organizers, and additional educational materials that would also support Common Core instruction. Download, share, pin, print, and save as many of these free resources as you like!

Leaders Are Readers

The Leaders Are Readers series is designed to inspire early readers to discover joy in reading. These books support hands-on learning, feature relatable characters, and foster leadership development. View available downloads →