This richly illustrated story is about a young Nguni calf, who questions his identity in relation to other cattle breeds, and his loving mother, who responds by telling him a tale of the origins and importance of his own breed, the indigenous Nguni. She also explains the names of his relatives and shows him the multicolored and patterned hides which make Nguni cattle unique. The hand-painted original illustrations and sensitive text draw upon Africans' love and respect for Nguni cattle, explaining to a new generation the importance and myths surrounding them.

Maryanne Bester and Shayle Bester are sisters who grew up on a free-state farm in South Africa, where their father farmed cattle and sheep. They run a decorative painters and illustrators business that specializes in children's art.