“In years to come, these will surely be some of the few joyous tales told about the pandemic…[Sea Lions in the Parking Lot] stands as an important reminder that things were different for a while, and guides readers toward deeper environmental thinking, about species and habitats and the interdependence of it all.”
— Helen Scales, The New York Times Book Review
“Challenges readers to think more deeply about human impact on the environment…a must-have for all science and social studies collections at all grade levels.”
— School Library Connections, highly recommended
“…a remarkable look at habitat loss and how wildlife can rebound if humans are more thoughtful of environmental issues.”
— Kendal Rautzhan, Books To Borrow, Books To Buy, syndicated column
“This timely nonfiction picture book is a tremendous documentation of ways in which our "built human landscape" was reclaimed by nature and animals during the "anthropause"…lyrical text…gloriously fascinating…a valuable resource for readers of all ages, including older ones who will find rich connections and content for discussion regarding climate change, habitat, wildlife behavior, and finding balance between progress and environmental responsibility. I encourage you to take a close look at this, to suggest it to teachers and families, and to reflect on the compelling question of your/our place in the world.”
— Sandy Brehl, unpackingpicturebookpower.blogspot.com
“The text in Sea Lions In The Parking Lot is smart and loaded with adjectives, similes, animal facts, and a big overview of their life. It’s impressive that author Lenora Todaro was able to accomplish this in just half a page in some cases.”
— Daddy Mojo
“[An] intriguing take on the pandemic.”
— The Horn Book
“In this series of delightful vignettes in which animal behavior and habitat change during the COVID-19 lockdowns, Todaro playfully captures some of the serious problems of coexistence between humans and wild animals.”
— Dr. Matthias-Claudio Loretto, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior
