About the Author

Jan Reynolds is an award-winning author and photographer whose work has appeared in numerous publications, including National Geographic, The New York Times, and Outside magazine. All seven books in her Vanishing Cultures series of photo-essays for children were recognized as Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, and she is also the author of Celebrate! Connections Among Cultures; Only the Mountains Do Not Move, and The Lion Queens of India. Reynolds holds the world record for women's high altitude skiing, was part of the first expedition to circumnavigate Mount Everest, and performed a solo crossing of the Himalayas. She lives with her family in Stowe, Vermont. Please visit her on the web at janreynolds.com.

Reviews

"A thought-provoking look at a culture that is peaceful and industrious, and which holds onto tradition while facing the future." -- Publishers Weekly "A revealing look at a vibrant and distinct culture." -- Kirkus Reviews "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." -- Booklist "This joyous story of the dance between tradition and change has a welcome place in any library. The dazzling smiles - aided by a special tree branch used as a natural antiseptic toothbrush - raise important questions for American readers about where true joy comes from. . . Highly recommended." -- LibraryThing "Throughout the text, Maasai proverbs are combined with photographs to show a thoughtful people seeking to move forward without losing their sense of self-worth. The text and the brilliantly sunlit photographs detail the older ways and newer paths." -- Chicago TribuneGreen Earth Book Award Shortlist - The Nature Generation

"A thought-provoking look at a culture that is peaceful and industrious, and which holds onto tradition while facing the future." -- Publishers Weekly

"A revealing look at a vibrant and distinct culture." -- Kirkus Reviews

"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." -- Booklist

"This joyous story of the dance between tradition and change has a welcome place in any library. The dazzling smiles - aided by a special tree branch used as a natural antiseptic toothbrush - raise important questions for American readers about where true joy comes from... Highly recommended." -- LibraryThing

"Throughout the text, Maasai proverbs are combined with photographs to show a thoughtful people seeking to move forward without losing their sense of self-worth. The text and the brilliantly sunlit photographs detail the older ways and newer paths." -- Chicago Tribune