“Engle presents a delightful tale of five orangutans in a string of linked tankas, an ancient Japanese form of poetry . . . A playful and instructive introduction to a little-known form of verse.” —Kirkus Reviews

“A sprightly introduction to orangutans through nimble wordplay and attractive book design . . . This well-crafted book, with its accomplished verses and smattering of facts, should earn a wide audience.” —School Library Journal, Starred Review

“Warm, rewarding portrait of these intelligent apes.” —Publishers Weekly

“Like the firefly light, Engle's poetry is a gossamer thread of subtle beauty weaving together three memorable characters who together find hope and courage. Another fine volume by a master of the novel in verse.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review on The Firefly Letters

“This book is an outstanding choice for young people of all reading skills.” —School Library Journal, starred review on Tropical Secrets

“Readers will be caught by the compelling narrative voices.” —Booklist, starred review on The Surrender Tree

“An absolutely lovely book . . . that should be read by young and old, black and white, Anglo and Latino.” —School Library Journal, starred review on The Poet Slave of Cuba

“Readers will hear the stories--and never forget them.” —Booklist, starred review on The Poet Slave of Cuba

“The moving poetry and finely crafted story will draw readers in and leave them in tears and in awe.” —The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, starred review on The Poet Slave of Cuba