New Slant On Climate Change Inspires Young Readers and Nonprofits

SNOHOMISH, Washington (November 28, 2011) - Researchers, wildlife experts, and educators across North America recommend a new book series called Twig Stories. Presented as ‘a journey into climate crisis’, the novels attract young, disaffected gamers and junior scientists alike. Set in the Pacific Northwest, stick creatures called Twigs battle a changing climate wreaking havoc on their old growth forest. Dr. Diana Six, an ecosystems professor with the University of Montana, emphasizes the series’ influence, “As a child, it was just such books that helped instill within me a desire to understand nature, and ultimately, to work in conservation.”

Leaf & the Rushing Waters spouts a timely theme: beaver dams solve flood and drought made extreme by climate change. Goliath beavers must battle a glacial outburst. Not so fantastic—one beaver dam in Alberta is twice the length of Hoover Dam, and seen from space. The President of Martinez Beavers, Dr. Heidi Perryman, explains their endorsement, “With her Twig tales, Jo Marshall has done something amazing—tie a story of epic adventure to a naturally anchored account of environmental awareness – all tailored to the fresh, engaging mind of the youngster.”

Leaf & the Sky of Fire lures the reader into dying forests in British Columbia where bark beetles infested millions of trees, and trapped desperate Twigs. A foolhardy hero flies off into the eerily-real world of climate change catastrophe. Dr. David Edwards, Manager of Education for The British Columbia Wildlife Park Kamloops, reminds families, “The educational value of these books cannot be underestimated especially at a time when we desperately need to create a culture that is committed to protecting our natural wonders.”

Leaf & the Long Ice and Leaf & Echo Peak are due out in 2012, and take place on the alarming, rapidly shrinking glaciers of active volcanoes. No wonder middle-schoolers tell friends to read Twig Stories. Taking arms against climate crisis is fun. As a member of the Society of Environmental Journalists, author Jo Marshall shares her royalties with conservation-oriented nonprofits. Leaf & the Rushing Waters and Leaf & the Sky of Fire are available from the usual outlets and via www.twigstories.com.

Contact Information

Jo Marshall

Independent Author

Twig Stories

(1) (425) 224-4786

twigstories@aol.com