After the king of a West African village dies, his eight-year-old daughter Abioye is made the temporary ruler, or regent, until a new king is chosen. The chiefs scoff at this decision—a little girl can’t be regent! Even Abioye herself doubts whether she’s up to the task. But her late father’s words of wisdom comfort and guide her: Those who will rule must first learn to serve.

As Abioye comes to know and help her people, they realize that good leaders do not have to fit a predefined mold. This empowering story explores themes of service in leadership, gaining respect rather than demanding it, and gender equality.