ALA Booklist

Reynolds, a writer-photographer whose previous books include Celebrate! Connections among Cultures (2006) and Cycle of Rice, Cycle of Life (2009), offers a close-up view of Laikipia, a Maasai community in northern Kenya. Traditionally nomadic herders, the Maasai have adapted to mounting pressures on their increasingly crowded and environmentally stressed homeland by turning to farming and ecotourism. While Reynolds explains these changes, she also introduces Maasai people going about their daily lives in one small community. Each double-page spread includes a few photos of the Maasai and their surroundings, along with captions and one or more paragraphs commenting on their way of life. Maasai sayings, appearing in large, colorful type and explained in the text, introduce each of the book's topical sections. With many clear color photos and an appended glossary with pronunciation, this is an excellent addition to classroom units on Africa today.

Horn Book

Reynolds discusses environmental changes that have affected the traditional way of life of the Maasai people of Kenya; for example, nomadic herding is giving way to farming as grazing lands shrink and water shortages increase. Vivid photographs appear on every page, elucidating the text's descriptions of the Maasai's adaptation to their shifting world. The handsome volume is useful for its cultural and environmental information. Glos.

Kirkus Reviews

Six Maasai proverbs complement glimpses into the daily life of a Maasai community in a compact and fascinating portrait of this nomadic people and their changing world. Reynolds describes in photographs and text how, in an area about the size of Oregon, the Maasai herd goats and cows as they have traditionally done and also increasingly adapt to changes in the environment and availability of grazing land and water. Farming and beekeeping are shown as examples of new Maasai ways of subsistence that may help restore health to the land that supports wild animals. The Maasai's respect and care for wild animals—they do not hunt them for food—and for the environment comes through clearly. The straightforward and economical text explains the construction of the huts, the use and importance of the livestock and the responsibilities, games and social traditions of girls and of boys within the group. The dozens of photographs inside and on the cover are excellent, with only two—peering inside an enjaki, or hut—a bit dim. An author's note discusses in a more personal voice the importance of Maasai storytelling and explains the effect that wildlife preserves—where not even leopards are truly wild—have on the natural order that the Maasai seek to restore. A revealing look at a vibrant and distinct culture. (author's note, glossary, source notes) (Nonfiction. 7-11)  

Publishers Weekly (Fri Oct 06 00:00:00 CDT 2023)

Reynolds-s compelling portrait of Maasai culture centers on the Il Ngwesi tribe in Kenya. Through straightforward descriptions (-The Maasai do not count their animals. They know each one by sight-) and large, color photographs, readers learn intimate details of the Il Ngwesi people-for example, that they sleep on wooden beds covered in animal skins, and that all members of the tribe, including children, have chores to do before playing games or making brightly beaded jewelry. Reynolds also discusses the Maasai-s dependence upon their animals and the effects of climate change and restricted land use on their way of life. A thought-provoking look at a culture that is peaceful and industrious, and which holds onto tradition while facing the future. Ages 6-11. (Sept.)

School Library Journal (Sat Oct 01 00:00:00 CDT 2011)

Gr 3-6 Traditionally the Maasai lived a nomadic life as herders in East Africa. Moving their goats and cows to graze in different areas, members of the tribe existed in harmony with animals such as giraffes and elephants. However, severe droughts and the establishment of wildlife preserves have reduced available grazing lands. Reynolds documents the ways in which members of the Il Ngwesi tribe in Kenya have responded. Her text and excellent-quality photos introduce the daily lives of men, women, and children. She shows how traditional roles and ceremonies exist alongside adaptations such as growing crops, cultivating wild bees, and guiding tourists to see animals in natural habitats. Although the Maasai proverbs Reynolds includes hint at a positive outcome, the people face ongoing challenges from environmental and political forces. This thought-provoking photo essay reveals a culture in the midst of change. Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato