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A Deep Love For Protecting Wildlife
Endangered Animals ABC is a colorful and heartfelt picture book that introduces young readers to a wide variety of endangered animals, organized alphabetically from Armadillo to Zebra. What was the inspiration for this children’s book?
This book was born from my deep love for wildlife and a strong desire to protect it. After years of working on conservation projects and witnessing firsthand how quickly our oceans and ecosystems are changing, I find it heartbreaking to think that so many incredible animals are on the brink of extinction and could disappear forever.
I believe the future of these species depends not only on our actions, but also on how we raise the next generation. That’s why I created this book: to help children connect with the natural world early on, to care about these animals, and to understand that even small choices can make a meaningful difference.
The structure of the book, presenting animals alphabetically, makes it easy for young readers to follow and meet each animal while enjoying the illustrations. For those ready to dive deeper, there’s also a section with more information about each animal. This makes the book ideal for children who are learning their ABCs and beginning to read, as well as for those who are already reading. It serves as an engaging early introduction to the issue of endangered wildlife and conservation. Our kids are the future leaders and decision-makers, and the values we teach them today will guide them to protect the planet tomorrow.
What I loved about this children’s book is that it goes beyond teaching the alphabet with fun animals; it explains what makes an animal endangered and the conservation efforts that go into saving them. What was your process to teaching this important information while still keeping it accessible to young readers?
My goal was to introduce big ideas like extinction, conservation, and environmental responsibility in a way that feels gentle and age-appropriate. I did this by choosing simple, clear explanations and focusing on just one or two key facts for each animal. Each animal is so fascinating, I felt like I could write a whole book about each one! That was actually the hardest part: deciding what to include and what to leave out.
To support parents and educators, I also included a special section that briefly explains what “endangered” means, introduces the IUCN, and outlines why animals become endangered. This part is designed to help adults start deeper conversations with their kids, at whatever level feels right for them. In addition, I offer free educational worksheets, extended information, and craft ideas on my website to help families continue the learning journey together.
I really enjoyed creating the illustrations, they are colorful and vibrant to draw kids in and help them enjoy discovering each animal. Some they may already know, without realizing those animals are endangered, while others will be completely new to them.
Unfortunately, there are so many endangered animals that I couldn’t include them all in one book. I had to make tough choices about which species to highlight. But my hope is that this book is just the beginning, that it sparks curiosity and opens the door to learning more.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your book?
I hope readers come away with a sense of connection, that these animals aren’t just distant creatures, but part of the same beautiful world we all share. Each one is unique and faces real, often urgent, challenges. My goal is to spark curiosity in young readers and help them understand that without action, these endangered animals could disappear forever. I truly believe it all begins with education, and if this book inspires children to learn more, or take even a small step toward helping, then it has accomplished what I hoped it would.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when is that book due out?
I’m currently working on a new book focused on ocean conservation and the vital role coral reefs play in the health of our planet. It will introduce kids to the wonders of underwater ecosystems and inspire them to protect our oceans. The release is planned for later this year.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Website
Each page showcases an endangered animal from A to Z with vibrant, gorgeous illustrations. From Armadillo to Zebra, explore lesser-known species like the Monjon and Vaquita, or discover familiar creatures you didn’t know are endangered, like the Bumblebee and Whale shark.
Join the movement to protect our planet’s wildlife with this must-have addition to your library and ignite a love for nature in the next generation!
Endangered Animals ABC
Endangered Animals ABC is a colorful and heartfelt picture book that introduces young readers to a wide variety of endangered animals, organized alphabetically from Armadillo to Zebra. Each letter of the alphabet showcases a different animal, alongside charming illustrations. At the end of these ABC-style entries are thoughtful educational pages explaining the causes of endangerment, what conservation means, and how kids—and their families—can help. The tone is gentle but urgent, blending love for animals with a quiet call to action.
I found this book both educational and thought-provoking. The writing is simple but purposeful, clearly crafted for little ears while still managing to carry real weight with it’s message at the end. Medalsy doesn’t shy away from big ideas like extinction or habitat loss, but she frames them in a way that feels hopeful instead of heavy. A mix of delight and awareness. Also, any book that makes “X” work with “Xenosaurus” gets extra points in my book.
The illustrations are truly something special—vibrant, bold, and full of life. The use of rich, textured colors and dramatic lighting gives each animal a larger-than-life presence, making them feel majestic and unforgettable. It’s art that doesn’t just complement the words—it amplifies them, pulling kids (and adults) right into the heart of the wild.
Endangered Animals ABC feels like a love letter: to wildlife, to curious kids, and maybe even to the author’s own children (as the dedication suggests). I’d recommend it to parents, teachers, and caregivers looking for a way to introduce conservation early on, without doom and gloom. It’s a great pick for preschoolers through early elementary schoolers that are learning the alphabet and who already have a soft spot for animals.
Pages: 78 | ASIN : B0DZ68JG4M
One Grain of Sand
This sweet children’s book by Ruthie Godfrey starts with a colony of ants who are thrown into chaos when what they think is an earthquake turns out to be a dog named Scruffy digging with wild abandon. Their carefully built home is in shambles. Just when things look a little hopeless, an elder ant shares how the colony was first built—patiently and bit by bit, “one grain of sand at a time.” Inspired by that wisdom, the young ants rally together and rebuild their home through teamwork and determination. It’s a simple message wrapped in a colorful and heartwarming tale.
There’s something so powerful about how the book takes such a big idea—perseverance—and shrinks it down into something kids can really get. I loved the part where the elder ant said, “Each day we worked. Little by little, bit by bit.” It’s the same thing I tell my students when they’re frustrated with math or trying to read a big book. The story doesn’t shy away from showing how hard things can feel at first, which makes the ending so satisfying.
And oh my goodness, the illustrations! Pablo D’Alio nails it. The ants are full of personality, especially the one in the purple cap—my kids started cheering when he rallied everyone. The expressions are priceless, and the way the chaos of the dog turns into organized teamwork by the end is just awesome.
One Grain of Sand is a gem. It’s the kind of picture book that’s fun to read out loud, sparks big conversations, and leaves kids feeling like they can do big things—even if it’s one tiny step at a time. I’d recommend it for any classroom, especially early elementary. It’s also a great pick for bedtime reading with a message that sticks. Teachers, parents, counselors—basically anyone raising or teaching little humans—this one’s for you.
Pages: 37 | ASIN : B0D8RCYXF4
Instigating a Sense of Adventure
Hedgehog’s Winter follows a hedgehog full of energy and curiosity who isn’t quite ready to hibernate, so he bundles up in his warmest winter clothes and ventures outside, eager to embrace the snow-filled world around him. What was the inspiration for your story?
For a child, exploring and experiencing the magical world of winter is wonderous! I wrote Hedgehog’s Winter to capture the enchanting spirit of the season, and instigate a child’s curiosity and sense of adventure.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
The storyline was originally written in a lyrical format, as a lullaby or whimsical ode to winter and nature. At the same time, incorporating various animals and concepts about hibernation, the book was written as an organic educational tool, as well.
When I visit classrooms, I spark conversations with young students about wintertime – what happens? How does the natural world around us change? Why don’t you see a snake during Christmastime? Where do chipmunks go when the season is snowy? It’s a wonderful way to engage their inquisitive minds. I offer students the opportunity to grow more appreciative and aware of what the season offers us.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Jeanne Ee Wei Yen?
My wonderful editor had everything to do with acquiring the illustrator. The watercolor media Jeanne used exemplify the mood and conjured a winter wonderland.
What next book are you working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I’m excited about my upcoming book, Grandma Yogini, a fun story to introduce children to yoga and meditation. Grandma is not your typical, run-of-the-mill Granny. She’s spunky and happily greets the team of neighborhood kids to show them a few fun yoga moves. The kids decide: best grandma visit ever!
Author Links: GoodReads | BlueSky | Facebook | Website
But his friends, Bear, Raccoon, and Chipmunk, don’t want to play. They are ready to hibernate in their warm dens.
So, Hedgehog puts on his hat, his coat, and his mittens and tries to find someone to have a winter adventure with him. As he skates on the frozen pond, he wonders what a falling snowflake tastes like. Then, Deer arrives and helps him build a snowman and find a piece of bark for a sled.
After sledding, Hedgehog and Deer share some leftover berries. But Hedgehog’s eyes are growing sleepy. He still doesn’t know what a falling snowflake tastes like as he walks toward his warm burrow. Only then, at the last minute, a little bit of magic happens.
Hedgehog’s Winter
As autumn fades into winter, Hedgehog savors one last playful moment with his friends in Hedgehog’s Winter, a charming tale by Raven Howell. Raccoon, Chipmunk, Snake, and Bear are all preparing for hibernation, ready to settle into a season of slumber. But Hedgehog, full of energy and curiosity, isn’t quite ready to rest. With no companions left to play with, he bundles up in his warmest winter clothes and ventures outside, eager to embrace the snow-filled world around him.
As he frolics through the winter landscape, one question lingers in his mind—what does a snowflake taste like when it lands on the tongue? His solo adventure takes an uplifting turn when his friend, Deer, appears. Together, they revel in the season’s magic, building a snowman and enjoying the crisp, snowy air. Eventually, even Hedgehog begins to tire, realizing that perhaps, after all his fun, a long winter’s nap sounds rather inviting. But just as he makes his way home to his cozy burrow, something special happens—something that makes his journey even more memorable.
This delightful children’s story radiates warmth and charm. One of its most endearing qualities is Hedgehog’s ability to find joy in solitude. Despite his friends being unavailable, he remains cheerful, confident, and eager to explore. Howell beautifully conveys a meaningful message: while playing with friends is wonderful, there’s also value in learning to enjoy one’s own company. Young readers will find comfort in Hedgehog’s self-assurance, discovering that moments of solitude can be just as fulfilling as time spent with others.
Jeanne Ee Wei Yen’s illustrations complement the story with breathtaking beauty. Nearly every page showcases her soft, detailed artwork, rendered in muted tones that perfectly capture the tranquility of a winter’s day. The imagery enhances the narrative, bringing Hedgehog’s adventure to life in a way that feels both whimsical and serene.
In sum, Hedgehog’s Winter is an enchanting read that will resonate with audiences of all ages. The story is heartwarming, the characters are irresistible, and the illustrations add an extra layer of charm. This book is a must-have for any child’s collection—kudos to Ms. Howell for crafting such a delightful wintertime tale!
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0DRWF6NS8
I’m Dreaming of Moo Deng
S.P. Somtow’s I’m Dreaming of Moo Deng celebrates the limitless imagination of childhood with charm and originality. The story follows a suburban boy who stumbles upon Moo Deng, a newborn pygmy hippo, while browsing online. Instantly captivated, he becomes so enthralled that his mother plans a trip to Thailand to visit the zoo where Moo Deng resides. They stay with his Uncle Somtow, who helps coordinate the visit. When they finally arrive at the zoo, a long line threatens their plans. Uncle Somtow considers giving up, but the boy’s determination keeps them in place. While they wait, his imagination takes flight, spinning magical adventures where he and Moo Deng share whimsical moments together.
The book’s theme is a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity. The protagonist’s fascination with Moo Deng becomes a driving force, teaching children the value of pursuing their passions wholeheartedly. His family’s unwavering support creates a nurturing environment that further underscores the importance of encouragement. Somtow skillfully illustrates how creativity not only fuels joy but also builds resilience. Faced with frustration during the long wait, the boy channels his emotions into vivid daydreams, transforming a tiresome experience into a fantastical journey. Meanwhile, Uncle Somtow enriches the moment by sharing intriguing facts, turning the wait into an opportunity for discovery.
Visually, the book dazzles with its illustrations. They burst with fantasy elements and intricate details, enhanced by striking light and shadow effects. Somtow’s writing, on the other hand, is precise and engaging, seamlessly weaving together real-world events and the protagonist’s imagined escapades. Each scene flows effortlessly into the next, delivering a narrative brimming with wonder and excitement.
At its heart, I’m Dreaming of Moo Deng inspires children to chase even the wildest dreams. It’s a joyful reminder that imagination, perseverance, and the support of loved ones can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. S.P. Somtow’s tale brims with warmth and creativity, making it an enchanting read for young dreamers and the families who encourage them to reach for the stars.
Pages: 67 | ISBN : 978-1940999388
My Large Wild Animal Book
My Large Wild Animal Book is a nature adventure for kids, full of facts about various wild animals. Each page introduces a new animal with its scientific name, habitat, group names, and diet. The book showcases well-known animals like the Black Bear, Bison, and Polar Bear with illustrations that aim to capture the beauty of these creatures. It’s an easy guide for young ones to learn about wildlife, from rocky cliff-loving mountain goats to tundra-wandering caribou.
This children’s book serves as a fantastic educational resource by offering clear, simple explanations about wild animals’ habitats, diets, and group names. Which I think is perfect for young children. It also introduces scientific terms in an easy-to-digest format, helping to build a child’s foundational knowledge of wildlife.
The writing is straightforward and simple. I liked how each animal’s description was broken down into clear sections, but at times, it felt a bit dry. For instance, the section on Black Bears mentions their habitat from Alaska to Mexico and their love of honey, but there isn’t much excitement in the way it’s presented. I think the book could’ve benefited from a few lively anecdotes or fun facts to jazz it up.
What stood out to me were the animal group names. Did you know a group of bears is called a “sleuth or sloth”? These little nuggets of information are memorable, and I could see kids being surprised by them. The author did a good job peppering these in, though I wish there were even more of these delightful surprises scattered throughout the book.
The illustrations in this educational picture book are lovely. I think they work well for children who are trying to understand these animals. The colors and details reflect how majestic and calm each animal is, like the solemn Kodiak Bear or the noble Moose.
My Large Wild Animal Book is great for young animal lovers, especially kids who are just starting to learn about wildlife. It’s a good introduction for children who want to learn about the habitats and diets of wild animals. It would work well as a classroom resource or a bedtime story for kids who dream of forest adventures and snowy tundras.
Pages: 39 | ASIN : B0855PCD6S
A Magical Process
Harriet’s Hungry Worms follows a young girl who is given the task of taking care of the worms in her family’s compost bin while learning valuable lessons about sustainability. What inspired your story?
Harriet’s Hungry Worms was inspired by my children’s curiosity about the environment and their eagerness to contribute to sustainability at home.
My children were learning about the environment, but with texts that weren’t connecting with them through their ‘childhood’. While there were many educational books about environmental topics, I noticed that some of them could be overwhelming for young children due to their fact-heavy nature.
I’m a big believer in keeping things light-hearted, fun, and simple in order to naturally inspire genuine interest in children and create positive habits for life – especially when it comes to the environment. My aim was to write an eco-book that wasn’t didactic – instead sparking children’s interest in worm farming in a fun way and showing them how simple it is for them to try at home.
I wrote the first draft with my three children – Tom, Ben, and Evie – who are just as excited about bringing Harriet’s Hungry Worms to life and sharing it with their friends.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Melissa Johns?
Working with Melissa was an absolute delight! Her unique style using recycled materials brought the story to life in such an inventive way.
Melissa’s creative process of repurposing everyday items into beautiful collages captures the heart of the book, extends the sustainability discussion, and aligns perfectly with the theme of giving new life to what might otherwise be discarded.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I wanted to share the message that caring for the environment doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating—it can start with small, fun activities like feeding kitchen scraps to worms!
The book emphasises the value of turning waste into something beneficial, inspiring young readers to see composting as a magical process.
I also aimed to encourage kids to see themselves as little “worm warriors” who can make a real difference in the world, even from their own backyards.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes, Harriet’s Hungry Worms is the first in what I hope will be a series of fun and inspiring eco-picture books. I have another book coming out with EK Books in 2026—stay tuned! Readers can expect more eco-adventures filled with fun characters and plenty of hands-on ways to learn about sustainability and caring for our planet.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
This funny, engaging eco story invites young readers to follow the adventures of Harriet’s ravenous compost worms as they munch their way through their wide and wonderful weekly menu.
Harriet’s nine-hundred-and-eighty-three hungry worms live in a shady corner of her backyard in a big, green box. They spend their days munching on anything from Aunt Tilda’s herbal teabags to the sports pages of Uncle Sam’s paper. Harriet watches and waits, eventually deciding the worms are ‘so BORING.’ Until one day, the worms leave Harriet a big surprise … worm wee!
Packed with worm facts, Harriet’s Hungry Worms is the ideal companion for worm warriors and curious composters keen to roll their sleeves up and put their kitchen food scraps to good use.
Continuing the sustainability message, inventive illustrations incorporating recycled materials bloom from each page, breathing beautiful life into this fun-filled story.
