Sparking Awe in the Next Generation: Catherine Barr Uses Picture Books & Storytelling to Reveal the Wonders of Nature

What's Your Why?

I think everybody should read picture books, whether you're three or 90 or, in fact, 97, like my mom. - Catherine Barr

I absolutely love what I do and embrace the endlessly fascinating, collaborative journey of working with scientists, subject experts and the incredible illustrators and publishers who bring my ideas to life. – Catherine Barr

Uncover the unexpected story of how a children's book author's accidental journey led to captivating tales of nature and wildlife that have inspired children worldwide. Catherine Barr’s passion for sparking curiosity in young minds will inspire you. Her unique approach to storytelling has led to collaborative efforts in classrooms, igniting a love for learning and creativity in children. In this What’s Your Why? Episode, we dive into her journey as she continues to discover new stories and wonders of the natural world.

My special guest is Catherine Barr

Catherine Barr, a celebrated children's book author, is widely recognized for her nonfiction works that explore the stories and remarkable facts of the natural world. With a background in ecology and a focus on wildlife issues, Catherine's passion for nature and wildlife shines through her writing. Her unique narrative nonfiction approach allows her to present complex topics such as conservation, endangered wildlife, ecosystems, and evolution in an engaging and accessible manner for young readers. Catherine's commitment to igniting a sense of wonder and curiosity in children about the environment has solidified her as a prominent author in the realm of children's literature on conservation.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the world of natural wonders through engaging children's books on the environment and wildlife.

Learn the power of engaged storytelling as a tool for educating children about the environment and fostering a love for nature.

Explore Catherine Barr's inspiring journey to becoming an author passionate about environmental conservation, and how her experiences can motivate others.

Delve into the incredible impact of wolves in Yellowstone National Park and the vital role they play in maintaining a balanced ecosystem.

Children's author Catherine Barr creates captivating non-fiction picture books, focusing on conservation, endangered wildlife, and climate change. Her narrative nonfiction approach allows children to engage with the natural world as a story, igniting their curiosity and interest in conservation.

Barr's books target ages six to ten but also hold value for adults, emphasizing the importance of illustrations in conveying the narrative effectively.

Ignite a passion for conservation in children through the enchanting world of picture books, fostering a deep connection with nature and wildlife.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

Wyoming Humanities - To learn more about Wyoming Humanities and their support for the podcast What's Your Why, visit their website at thinkwy.org.

Explore Catherine Barr's books, including 14 Wolves in the UK and The Tiger's Tale, visit the Bloomsbury website or your favorite book retailer.

British Antarctic Survey - For more information about the British Antarctic Survey and their research on wildlife, including the geo tracker used on a storm petrel, visit their official website.

Natural History Museum in Denver - To learn more about the Natural History Museum in Denver and their exhibits, including the T-Rex, visit their website or plan a visit to the museum.

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