★ “The Serengeti comes to life in all its color and glory through illuminating verse, matter-of-fact narrative, and captivating illustration. Bulion once again makes science accessible and imaginative. . . . Stadtlander’s renderings embody the expanse through spectacular colors, shading, and brushwork. . . . A STEAM book in the truest sense as it inspires curiosity through art and science.”—School Library Journal, Starred Review
“The poems are scientifically informative (“wildebeests feast on shorter swards / oxpecker birds are stowaboards”), evocative (“butterflies flutter at nectar wells”), and a delight to read (“low-ground growth is nimbly used, / fleet gazelles nibble gnu-mown grass”). Another highlight is the thoughtful detail in the expressive paintings. . . . Stadtlander is especially gifted at portraying the beauty of the Serengeti at various times of day. . . . Charmingly illustrated and beautifully written. . . .”—Kirkus Reviews
“Dramatic watercolors spread across the pages to convey the expanse of grassland. . . . Absolutely fascinating on many levels, the wilderness is brought to life even for readers living a world away from Africa via vivid language reflecting the stark sounds and sights of an ancient ecosystem in motion. ‘ . . . This nonfiction picture book is a veritable feast for a curious child ‘s hungry mind.”—School Library Connection
“Bulion presents a vibrant picture of Tanzania’s Serengeti Plain and the animals and plants that reside there, employing lilting half-rhyme quatrains. . . . Rich gouache and pastel art by Stadtlander provides atmosphere through vintage-inflected depictions of wildlife and sweeping landscapes portraying the plains at different times of day and year. A reverent and educational portrait. . . .”—Publishers Weekly
★ “Attractive and informative, this will please browsers and information seekers alike.”—Booklist, Starred Review