Have you seen The Black Mambas yet? It is a must-read, yet I haven’t really seen it talked about outside librarian Facebook groups.
Highly-recommended for all libraries, from elementary through adults.
Author / Photographer: Kelly Crull
Genre: informational picture book
Setting: Kruger National Park, South Africa
Themes: conservation, animal poaching, trophy hunting, South African wildlife, male-dominated career fields, endangered animals, survival, photographs
Protagonist: Black female park rangers; anti-poaching unit; all South African
Recommended for: Grades 1-4
Starred Reviews: Booklist, Publishers Weekly, and SLJ
This anti-poaching team is unlike any other: they carry no weapons. Instead, they keep animals safe with frequent patrols and a keen eye for footprints, snares, and other clues that poachers are nearby.
These courageous women work in a nature reserve in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. The reserve is home to the largest remaining populations of white rhinos, critically endangered black rhinos, and ground pangolins, one of the most trafficked animals in the world.
Author and photographer Kelly Crull traveled to South Africa to see firsthand how the Black Mambas are making a difference―for animals and for their communities. He tells their incredible story from their perspective, giving readers an unforgettable look at these environmental heroes.
A portion of the proceeds from this book will be donated to the Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit.
This title has been quietly gaining traction among elementary librarians, and it deserves far more attention. As of January 2026, it’s earning rave reviews in librarian spaces. I am happy to add my voice and rave about it, too!
This informational picture book is a must-have for elementary library collections. The photography is stunning, and the engaging narrative invites students to imagine themselves as part of the Black Mambas, South Africa’s all-female anti-poaching unit.
What truly sets this informational picture book apart are its interactive features woven directly into the text. Throughout the story, readers are prompted to investigate, observe, and problem-solve:
In addition, readers will learn:
This book is an exceptional blend of storytelling, visual literacy, and real-world problem solving. It’s a natural fit for inquiry-based lessons, discussion, and cross-curricular connections. I cannot recommend it highly enough for elementary libraries.
It also works well for lessons and displays for Black History Month (February), Women’s History Month (March), and Earth Day (April).
All the Black Mambas are Black South African women. Some photos contain South African men, boys, and girls, but they are not the main focus of this book.
Would adult readers like this book? YES! I have read this several times – so interesting!
Would I purchase this book for my high school library? YES – I think this book will appeal to any age. This book shows strong, modern-day female heroes making a real difference in the world.
Would I purchase this book for my middle school library? YES – same reasons as HS libraries above.
Would I purchase this book for my elementary school library? YES, 100% – This book has adventure, danger, conservation, and modern-day superheroes. This will make a popular storytime selection.
There are some photos of bushmeat found at a scene, but you cannot tell what kind of animal it is. The book does not say anything about it in the caption, just that it is “drying bushmeat” found at an outdoor bushmeat kitchen.
This book inspired me so much that I created a library lesson to go with it! Click the image below to check it out!
There is also a free Teaching Guide for this book available at Lerner Books.
