Alpha, le petit cireur

Twelve-year-old Alpha has recently left his village and come to the city, where he polishes shoes. He's never been to school but can read and write the Koran. His uncle lends him money to get started in his new trade; but there is plenty of competition on the streets. He becomes ill and has to return to his uncle until he regains his health. He hopes someday to have a vending stand and earn more money.