 Only the Mountains Do Not Move: A Maasai Story of Culture and Conservation
by Jan Reynolds (Photographer)
Only the Mountains Do Not Move: A
Maasai Story of Culture and Conservation ($18.95) by Jan Reynolds is a
photo-essay that explores the lifestyle of contemporary Maasai in Kenya
and how they are adapting to changes in their environment. (6 11)
SeptemberGr 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 (c) Copyright
2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source,
Inc. No redistribution permitted.
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.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC.
All rights reserved.
| Where Do the Maasai Live? | p. 6 |
| Clothes and Beadwork | p. 18 |
| Make a Maasai Bracelet | p. 20 |
| Find Out for Yourself | p. 30 |
These stunning titles introduce
the reader to cultures around the world, highlighting the similarities
and differences between them. Each book focuses on a different culture.
Readers will encounter aspects of daily life in each culture, such as
food, clothing, schools, leisure, and celebrations. Brilliant color
photos bring each culture to life for the armchair traveler.
Gr 3-5-Each book provides an
introduction to a particular culture and includes basic information on
topics such as homes, food, clothing, celebrations, music, and
education. It also explains how the environment shapes the people's way
of life. The authors note current changes to the traditional nomadic
lives of the Maasai of the African savannah and the Tuareg of the
Sahara. Bingham stresses the importance of the Dreamtime and ancestor
spirits to the Aboriginal people of Australia. Ganges concentrates on a
particular place, the holy city of Varanasi, and practices of Hinduism
rather than on a specific ethnic group. Each chapter spread includes two
or three paragraphs of text and full-color photos. Suitable choices for
collections that need updated or additional material on these
topics.-Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato (c) Copyright
2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source,
Inc. No redistribution permitted.
 The Maasai of East Africa
by Jamie HetfieldFor strength of character and
pride, few people can match the Maasai people of Kenya and Tanzania.
Your readers will discover how Maasai children learn to be adults early.
National Geographic Website |
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