Starry Safari

Written by Linda Ashman, Illustrated by Jeff Mack
Harcourt, 2005. 978-0152047665

Reviews & Honors

A Texas 2×2 Selection 2006

“A rip-roaring, exciting excursion.” —School Library Journal

“[T]his mini-thriller is proof that imaginations really can go wild.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Preschoolers will giggle with delight.” —Booklist

“Energetic rhymes and action-packed spreads.” —Publisher’s Weekly

About this Story

Racing in my sturdy jeep —
On safari! Beep! Beep! Beep!

Passing fields where zebras feast.
Trailing herds of wildebeest.

I really enjoyed the process of working with Harcourt editor Karrie Oswald and illustrator Jeff Mack on RUB-A-DUB SUB, and asked Karrie about doing a companion book. She liked the idea, so I began mulling over possible settings. After several false starts, I came up with the African Safari idea, which had so much potential for interesting animal encounters and lively illustrations.

As with RUB-A-DUB SUB, I love Jeff’s vibrant colors, adorable animals and the sense of excitement he conveys in his paintings. And I love how he captures this girl’s adventurous spirit.

Illustrations copyright 2005 by Jeff Mack. Harcourt.