The Picture Book Buzz - March 2026 Interview with STEAM Team Books Members (Part 2)

Whether you're here to support the STEAM Team authors, curiosity, or because you love nonfiction books, I hope you read to the end because you'll discover some amazing authors and super spectacular books!

Today I have the pleasure to introduce you to two authors from the STEAM Team Books – a group of authors and illustrators who joined together to celebrate and help promote their STEAM books. I hope you enjoy this peek at these delightful books and fascinating creatives.

"STEAM Team Books is a group of authors who have a STEM/STEAM book releasing in 2026. It includes fiction & nonfiction, trade or educational books.” Check out their website for other interviews, activities, and bios.

Tell us a little about yourself. (Where/when do you write? How long have you been writing? What is your favorite type of book to write? What drew you to STEAM books? etc.)

Laurel Neme – The GiRaft: A Real-Life Giraffe Rescue (Sleeping Bear Press 3/15/2026) – I've always been passionate about animals. First, I wanted to talk to the animals, like Doctor Dolittle. Later I wanted to be a large animal veterinarian, like James Herriot. Or a scientist like Jacques Cousteau (except I always got seasick) or Jane Goodall. After getting my PhD, I worked in Africa and elsewhere on natural resource management, with a focus on reducing negative environmental and social impacts of big development projects, like roads and oil extraction. I often saw how animals were being exploited for profit, which led to my first book, Animal Investigators, on wildlife trafficking and how wildlife forensics was saving endangered species. To my surprise, this book generated a lot of media on wildlife trafficking and policy change. On a personal level, it opened my eyes to the impact that stories can have on motivating change. That’s when I started writing full time.

As a journalist, I write for National Geographic, Mongabay.com and other outlets. I've also recently started The Wildlife Podcast with my NatGeo colleague Jeffrey Barbee where we share interviews with scientists and other wildlife champions. This work often spurs my ideas for books—because the more I talk to people, the more fascinating and inspiring stories I discover. For example, over the years I'd been in touch with folks living and working in this region of Kenya, so I was aware of all they had been doing to help giraffes. In fact, the story of THE GIRAFT began a decade earlier, when two warring communities initially came together to set aside land and help giraffes. When floods later threaten the giraffes' survival, they continue their ongoing work in support of giraffes and devise a raft to bring them to higher ground—where they have since flourished.

[Author of The Elephant’s New Shoe, illustrated by Ariel Landy (2020) -  Orangutan Houdini, illustrated by Kathie Kelleher (2014), and Animal Investigators (2009).]

Elaine Kachala – Building Homes for All: Technology for a Fair and Green Planet (Orca Book Publishers 3/17/2026) – When I’m writing and doing deep dives into research, I’m really in my element. I find it exciting to research a new topic, distill the information, and write about it in a way that compels people to take action. It’s what I loved most about my job when I worked as a health policy researcher, writer, and advisor, and it’s what I love about writing nonfiction STEAM books for young readers.

I began learning to write for kids about ten years ago. At first, I thought I’d write picture books, but long story short, I ended up writing my debut, Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution (2022) – a middle-grade STEAM nonfiction book. I loved everything about the process, especially writing for middle-grade readers about how people work together with technology to shape a better world. Middle-graders are so smart, enthusiastic, and hopeful, and it’s invigorating to talk to them–I try to include their voices in my books.

My favorite place to write is outside on my porch. Equipped with a heater, I stay outside until the cold Canadian weather kicks in! Then, I move inside, and I’m mostly at my standing desk or sometimes at the dining room table. I need a quiet environment, so I’m always writing at home.

[Author of Superpower?: The Wearable-Tech Revolution, illustrated by Belle Wuthrich (2022)]

Katie Lee Reinert - Sloths and Their Moths (Tielmour Press 3/31/2026) - I live outside of Portland, Oregon with my husband and two daughters and have been writing picture books since 2019. I was pretty focused on fiction up until I had the idea for Sloths and Their Moths, but I’ve been branching out more and more into nonfiction since then. I typically try to write most weekdays when I don’t have other family or volunteer commitments. But just like with everything else, there are times when I get to do more writing and times when it takes a backseat. When I do write, I do it exclusively at home. I’d love to be able to visit a coffee shop and get to work, but I find it too distracting. I can’t even have music playing when I’m trying to write! In my nonfiction journey, I tend to enjoy learning and writing about STEM topics, especially ones related to nature and animals. I find the vast array of life on this planet fascinating and figure if I enjoy learning about it, then others probably will too.

[Author of Emma Wasn't Ready, illustrated by Nemu Takahashi (3/10/2026) and Ready to Smile Again, illustrated by Sara Aziz (2025)]

Michelle Cusolito - Rooted in Wonder: Celebrating the World's National Trees (Moon & Bird/Penguin Random House 3/31/2026) – I started writing for children around 2007 but didn’t sell my first book until 2016 (which came out in 2018). My first job out of college was as a Naturalist at an environmental camp on Cape Cod. Then I became an elementary school teacher and a science curriculum developer, so the transition to writing STEAM books for kids was a natural one. I have a deep sense of wonder for the natural world, and I want to share that with kids.

I write in a variety of places: at my standing desk, at the kitchen counter or dining room table, in my screened porch, in cafés, lounging on the sofa, or in my bed first thing in the morning. (I wrote the first draft of In the World of Whales before I got out of bed one morning). I also like writing outside; the first draft of Flying Deep was written while I sat at the edge of a pond.

[Author of In The World Of Whales, illustrated by Jessica Lanan (2025), Jellyfish Scientist: Maude Delap and Her Mesmerizing Medusas, illustrated by Ellen Rooney (2025); A Window into the Ocean Twilight Zone: Twenty-four Days of Science at Sea (2024), Diving Deep: Using Machines to Explore the Ocean, illustrated by Nicole Wong (2022) and Flying Deep: Climb Inside Deep-Sea Submersible Alvin, illustrated by Nicole Wong (2018).]

What has been the most interesting or odd experience (you’re willing to share) of your children’s literature career so far?

Laurel Neme – Because my writing for kids mixes with my writing for adults, my career experiences often overlap. Some of the most interesting involve visiting wildlife rehabilitation facilities in South Africa, Zimbabwe and other countries. Or swimming with pink dolphins in the Brazilian Amazon. But if I just focus on my picture books, one of the oddest happened just before the release of The Elephant's New Shoe. This book tells the true story about an elephant (named Chhouk) with a prosthetic leg. In preparation for school visits, Nick Marx, the rescuer in my story, was going to send me one of the elephant's old shoes to use as a visual aid. Chhouk gets a new one every six months because he grows so fast. Plus, elephants are tough on shoes! Anyway, when it arrives from Cambodia, it's too big to deliver. So, I go to pick it up at my local, rural Vermont post office. As the postal worker wheels it out from the back, I was so excited that I started blathering about how there's an elephant prosthetic inside. I don't know what I expected. Perhaps some sort of "wow" or other note of interest. But all she did was shrug, as if this was no big deal.

Maybe it wasn't, to her. But, of course, she never actually saw the shoe itself. To me and the many kids at my school visits, seeing and feeling and even smelling this huge shoe is pretty awe-inspiring. I'm not sure what I'll do for The GiRaft, as there's no way I can replicate the raft. Or is there?

Elaine Kachala – One of the most interesting and rewarding experiences of my children’s literature career has been meeting other STEAM authors. I’m constantly inspired—not only by their ability to create engaging, brilliant books, but also by the depth of expertise they bring to their subjects. What stands out most, though, is their generosity—their kindness, encouragement, and willingness to share knowledge and lift others up. Since publishing can be such a complex and challenging industry to navigate, that support truly makes the difference.

Katie Lee Reinert - I think just learning about the kid lit world in general has been really interesting. People outside of the industry would have no idea how many things have to align just right for a book to happen or how many times you hear “no” before you hear one “yes.”

Michelle Cusolito – My most interesting experience was definitely going to sea with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution to write A Window into the Ocean Twilight Zone: Twenty-Four Days of Science at Sea. I assisted scientists with their research by hauling nets, sorting specimens, and labeling water samples. I wrote blog posts for WHOI’s website (Check them out if you want to learn more). I also had the “thrill” of riding out three massive storms. I keep seeking ways to get on another expedition.

These are all such great experiences, thank you all for sharing them with us. Now that we know a little more about all of you, what sparked your interest and caused you to write or illustrate this book?

Laurel Neme – The GiRaft: A Real-Life Giraffe Rescue (3/15/2026) – Giraffe are one of my favorite animals, so I naturally notice news stories about them. I'd heard about the stranding of these rare giraffes from multiple sources, and it struck a chord. Perhaps in part because I'd experienced the devastating impact of flooding in my home state of Vermont. We're seeing dramatic changes in weather patterns around the world, and this situation was a poignant and inspiring reminder that there's still a lot we CAN do.

Elaine Kachala – Building Homes for All: Technology for a Fair and Green Planet (3/17/2026) – I’d say three things came together. First, my background in health policy and health promotion was a strong influence. I had written reports highlighting how social and environmental factors affect our health, so my mind is always tuned to see the world through that lens. I’d often wondered how to turn that knowledge into a captivating and accessible book for kids.

Then, a spark came from my dear sweet Golden Retriever, Tucker. When we visited a youth shelter—Tucker was a St John’s Ambulance certified therapy dog—one of the kids told me that Tucker made their space feel like a home. That comment stuck with me.

After researching for my last book, Superpower? I was already tracking how science and technologies were reshaping our world. The moment I saw a news story about a 3D construction printer building houses, everything clicked. Technology could help provide real solutions to the housing and climate crisis. So, I dove in and developed a nonfiction proposal for Orca Book Publishers—and the rest is history!

Katie Lee Reinert - Sloths and Their Moths (3/31/2026) - Sloths have always been my favorite animal! So, when I learned about the moths that live on their fur, I began to research it and found out that it’s actually an entire ecosystem that lives there, not just the moths. I sat with the idea for a while trying to figure out the best format for the story (I was originally thinking of doing informational fiction). But when I landed on a cumulative structure that begins with the big picture and gradually zooms in more and more, I knew that was the approach I wanted to take.

Michelle Cusolito - Rooted in Wonder: Celebrating the World's National Trees (3/31/2026) -

The initial idea to create a book about National trees was Marya’s. I learned about it when Laura Whitaker-Jones—an editor I had met nearly a decade before at a non-fiction retreat—posted that she was seeking an author for a specific project. My agent inquired about the project. When I heard it was about trees, I was intrigued. Trees have played a big role in my life. My home is surrounded by a forest, and I’ve hugged trees on five continents. We had an introductory call with Laura and the acquiring editor, Fiona Robertson, and then I submitted writing samples. Shortly after, I was offered a contract.

I worked with Marya, my editor, and the art director, Karen Smith, to create a list of potential trees to feature. We wanted a selection of trees that would provide varied illustration opportunities and cover six continents. (There are no trees in Antarctica!)

Once we had nailed down the list of trees, my job was to write the text. I came up with the idea to write a poetic introduction, then have a double-page spread for each tree, and end with a lyrical closing. I drafted the opening, closing, and a sample poem for the Banyan tree and sent them to Fiona, Marya, and Karen for their input. We agreed on the structure, and decided each tree spread would include a poem of 70-80 words. I continued my research and eventually wrote a poem for each of the remaining eleven trees.

I love all the varied ways that each of you discovered something about a topic that you were deeply connected with. Is there anything special you want your readers to know about your book?

Text © Laurel Neme, 2026. Image © Elisa Paganelli, 2026.

Laurel Neme – The GiRaft: A Real-Life Giraffe Rescue (3/15/2026) – To me, THE GIRAFT is more than a rescue story. It's also a story of people working together to overcome differences and challenges that they couldn't do alone.

For years, this area experienced a cycle of droughts and floods. which was devastating to the pastoral communities there and exacerbated conflict between them over access to land, water and cattle. But elders built on their shared reverence for giraffes to stop the violence, and in 2008 both sides set aside part of their land for them, and the process of working together brought peace. The rescue of the giraffes featured in The GiRaft is a continuation of that process and is a stark reminder of the power of working together to solve problems.

Text © Elaine Kachala, 2026. Image © Catherine Chan, 2026.

Elaine Kachala – Building Homes for All: Technology for a Fair and Green Planet (3/17/2026) – I would like readers to know three things: first, that there are real reasons for hope—solutions to tough challenges like housing shortages or climate change are possible. Second, that innovation is hard work, but deeply rewarding. And, while technology opens the door to new solutions, it takes teamwork and courage to create change.

I also hope young readers will be inspired to see construction as a clean, green, and smart STEAM career—one that’s full of creativity, technology, and exciting opportunities for the future.

Text © Katie Lee Reinert, 2026. Image © Gabi Moraes, 2026.

Katie Lee Reinert - Sloths and Their Moths (3/31/2026) - Sloths come down to the ground once a week to poop and it’s an important part of the relationship between the sloths and their moths. The illustrator, Gabi Moraes, included a spread where you can see the pile of sloth poop if you look for it. I love that she included that detail! There’s also a fun seek and find at the end of the book with animals hidden throughout the story.

Michelle Cusolito - Rooted in Wonder: Celebrating the World's National Trees (3/31/2026) –

Don’t miss the fun additional facts in the back matter. There are also prompts to go back into the book and find particular things in the illustrations. I hope kids will love searching for them.

I’d also like to share this story.

Text © Michelle Cusolito, 2026. Image © Marya Wright, 2026.

When I was researching for Rooted in Wonder, I read that some ginkgo trees had survived the atomic blast in Hiroshima. They were completely burned and assumed dead, so it felt like a miracle when they sent out new shoots. They became symbols of hope and peace and are still alive today. I dug deeper and found a New York Times article called “Trees That Survived Hiroshima” by Will Matsuda. It described a project called Green Legacy Hiroshima. GLH brings seeds from those survivor trees to be planted in other countries around the world as a symbols of peace. I immediately wondered if I might be able to see one of those trees. I used the interactive map on the website to search for trees near me. Imagine my shock when I learned that there’s one in my small, rural town! Of course, I went to see it right away. The tree is thriving.

My author photo was taken in front of that tree, and the portrait that Marya drew of me for the back of the book features me wearing a crown of ginkgo leaves.

I’ve since learned that the college my youngest attends also has several GLH seedlings at the botanic garden. Two experts from that garden ended up helping to fact-check the book.

Connections like this have happened with almost every book project.

What a varied and amazing group of STEM books! What was the hardest, or most challenging, part of writing or researching your book? Was there a bit of your research you didn’t get to include?

Laurel Neme – The GiRaft: A Real-Life Giraffe Rescue (3/15/2026) – One challenge was deciding where to start the story. Ultimately, I started with the flooding and threat to the giraffes. But that meant that I omitted what giraffes meant to these communities and how they fostered peace between them. I addressed that omission in my own mind by telling that part of the story in an article published in The Revelator in March 2025, called Giraffes for Peace.

Another challenge was describing the true dangers of moving and tranquilizing giraffes. Their long necks are hard to manage. Their breathing can get blocked easily. And they're such large animals that they can injure themselves during the fall or recovery, and if that happens in the water, they could drown. While I did include the hazards, I think I understated what an incredibly dangerous and difficult process it is. But I'll let readers be the judge.

Elaine Kachala – Building Homes for All: Technology for a Fair and Green Planet (3/17/2026) – Without a doubt, the hardest part was keeping up with the rapid pace of technology. I even included a “Dear Reader” note in the book because it became such a big theme during writing. For example, 3D construction printing has been advancing at breakneck speed. Less than a decade ago, only basic wall sections could be printed, and buildings were small and single-story structures. Now, we have multistory printed buildings, and even components like roofs and basements are possible. The same goes for sustainable building materials; new eco-friendly printing methods and materials were regularly emerging.

As I said in my note to readers, imagine working on a school project where the information kept changing daily because the topic was brand-new—that’s what happened! It was so exciting to see the successes, but it was also my biggest challenge. I take writing nonfiction for kids seriously, so keeping every fact up to date amid constant new developments added an extra layer of work—but also discovery.

And yes – there’s always research that doesn’t make it into my nonfiction books! Cutting information is tough, especially after diving so deeply into every detail, but with my editor’s help, I always end up feeling confident that the final version captures the most important, fascinating parts for readers.

Katie Lee Reinert - Sloths and Their Moths (3/31/2026) - One of the more challenging aspects of writing about sloths is that they’re very difficult to study, so there isn’t a ton of research on them. I also love learning random facts about sloths themselves, but since that wasn’t really the focus of the book, I was only able to include a few extra facts in the back matter.

Michelle Cusolito - Rooted in Wonder: Celebrating the World's National Trees (3/31/2026) –

Researching for this book was very different than all of my other books because the majority of my research happened on-line. (My books typically lean more heavily on experiential research and interaction with experts).

One we had made our list of twelve trees, I set up a Scrivener file with one entry for each tree in the research section of the “binder” and began researching. My first job was to identify trustworthy resources to confirm that the trees had been officially designated National trees. This was far more challenging than I had expected! It’s not like there’s a centralized location that lists the national trees of the world. I did find a two-volume reference book that listed symbols and flags and such, but I discovered that several entries were inaccurate, so I didn’t feel I could trust that source. So, I spent many hours scouring the internet for official government websites and reputable news outlets that indicated they were national trees. This took a long time!

There was SO MUCH research I couldn’t include. In order to write a single 70 or 80 word poem about each tree, I needed to know way more information about each tree than I could squeeze into a poem.  

It's interesting how many different issues arise, from any or too much information, reliability, and the rapid pace of technology, when writing nonfiction books. Are there any upcoming projects that you are working on now that you can share a tidbit with us?

Laurel Neme – I've just launched a new podcast with my colleague called "THE WILDLIFE PODCAST with Laurel Neme and Jeffrey Barbee," available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other platforms.

As the number of media outlets for in-depth environmental stories shrinks, we're hoping our podcast will help fill some of that gap. We've already recorded episodes on topics ranging from vultures to lions and gorillas, and we're excited to share these great conversations. One of my favorites so far is with a group of middle school kids who designed an underwater camera that is helping save endangered whales from fishing gear entanglements. It's just one example of our goal to be positive and hopeful and focus on what you can do to help. Tune in and let us know what you think!

Elaine Kachala – I wish I could share more, but nothing’s official yet. I do have another STEAM-themed project in the works —one that I’m really excited about—but until there’s a signed contract, I’d better keep the details under wraps. Stay tuned!

Katie Lee Reinert - I don’t have any upcoming projects under contract, but I will say that I love writing about creepy things. I’ve been working on some stories that explore the weird or gross side of nature.

Michelle Cusolito – I’m in the process of editing my next book with my editor, Karen Boss at Charlesbridge. The book is tentatively titled TINY BUT MIGHTY PLANKTON and is slated to come out in 2028. I’m really excited about this book! I first started thinking about writing a book about plankton when I was at sea with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution to research for A Window into the Ocean Twilight Zone. It took me several years to figure out how to structure it to make it interesting for kid readers.

That is intriguing and exciting news for all of you. We'll have to keep our eyes open for these upcoming books. Last question, who is your STEAM hero or heroine, living or dead (scientist, naturalist, author, teacher, etc.)? Why?

Laurel Neme – What a great question, and a difficult one, too!  In the realm of scientists and conservationists, there are many, but I'll name three of my personal heroes. First is Jane Goodall, for bringing to the forefront the fact that animals have emotions. My second is Daphne Sheldrick, who figured out how to save orphaned elephants. And last but not least is Craig Newman at Outreach for Earth Stewardship in Vermont, who quietly has saved thousands of injured owls, hawks and other raptors and passed on his knowledge and love for these birds to countless others—including me.

Elaine Kachala – Wow, this is a difficult question because I can’t pick just one STEAM hero or heroine! Throughout the research for this book (and my last one!), I’ve been awe-struck by the dedication and brilliance of so many—from engineers, designers, and scientists tackling the housing crisis and climate challenges to the business leaders who support new endeavors. Just take a peek at the innovators in Building Homes for All (and in Superpower?), and you’ll see why I can’t choose! Their creativity, courage, and talent for innovation, and their willingness to take huge risks give me hope for what’s ahead.

Katie Lee Reinert - I’ve always admired the women codebreakers from World War II. They worked at a time where most women didn’t and helped the United States and the Allies win the war, all without recognition. I love that they found a way to use their intelligence and skills to contribute in a meaningful way, despite all of the obstacles in their way.

Michelle Cusolito – Anyone who knows me knows that I don’t pick favorites, so I can’t give just one. Lol.

Maude Delap comes to mind first. She’s the subject of Jellyfish Scientist: Maude Delap and Her Mesmerizing Medusas. Maude was a ground-breaking scientist in rural Ireland in the late 1800s at a time when women were expected to be a wife and mother, not a scientist.

Two well-known modern women who immediately came to mind are:

·       Dr. Sylvia Earle, “Her Deepness,” who has done so much for the ocean.

·       Dr. Edie Widder, who figured out a way to attract a giant squid close to her underwater cameras and captured the first video of the elusive animal.

And two scientists I know personally have particularly inspired me:

·       Dr. Heidi Sosik from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. We went to sea together. She’s another woman who works at the cutting-edge of ocean research in a field that has historically been dominated by men. She’s an incredible scientist, a strong leader, and an all-around inspiring person.

·       Dr. Joel Llopiz, also from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and was on that same expedition. He was an incredible scientist, but I especially admired his commitment to diversity in the sciences, his mentorship of up-and-coming scientists, and his incredible kindness. (I hope you’ll read his obituary. It’s all true and I can hardly type this without crying.)

NOW, let me take a moment to introduce you to this amazing STEAM book! 

The GiRaft: A Real-Life Giraffe Rescue by Laurel Neme, illustrated by Elisa Paganelli (Sleeping Bear Press 3/15/2026) – A gorgeously illustrated nonfiction account of a daring rescue of a critically endangered Baringo giraffe, separated on a small island from her herd (which were themselves stranded on another shrinking island) during flooding in Kenya. The lyrically succinct, conversational text teams with detailed, realistic illustrations to capture the dangers, risks, and successes in a way to engage, without overwhelming young readers. Back matter includes great photographs, additional information on the rescue, and giraffe facts. It is a wonderful example of persistence, ingenuity, caring, and teamwork

Synopsis: When eight rare Baringo giraffes are stranded due to floodwaters, wildlife rescuers create a flotational craft to ferry the giraffes to a new home.

Poor Asiwa—time is running out! She and seven other rare Nubian giraffes have peacefully lived on a peninsula that juts out into Lake Baringo in Kenya. But now relentless rain and rising floodwaters have turned their home into an island. Food is running out. It's especially desperate for Asiwa as the water has stranded her away from the other giraffes. She is alone and frightened. If the giraffes aren't rescued, this endangered breed will be one step closer to extinction.

But how does one transport an almost 20-foot-tall wild animal? With a GiRaft, of course! An alliance of wildlife rangers, conservancies, and local community members work to create a flotational craft specifically to ferry the giraffes to a new home. Will Asiwa and her herd get on board?

Written by noted conservationist Laurel Neme, the extraordinary rescue of Asiwa and her herd of Nubian giraffes comes to life. Back matter shares more about Asiwa, as well as fun giraffe facts.

Building Homes for All: Technology for a Fair and Green Planet by Elaine Kachala, illustrated by Catherine Chan (Orca Book Publishers 3/17/2026) – A magnificent middle grade STEM book, beginning with the premise that "everyone deserves a home," which addresses the linked issues and causes of the housing and climate crises in a conversational and engaging way. Sections highlight "Tech-Powered Partners," green homes, 3-D printed homes, numerous uses of automation, and the need for interdisciplinary cooperation. Full of photos, fun illustrations, graphics, helpful captions, and thought-provoking sidebars, as well as ways for kids to get involved now, and a note about the quickly changing science, this is an honest, yet hopeful, look at the scientific, engineering, robotic, governmental, and cultural changes around housing.

Synopsis: The world is facing both a housing crisis and a climate crisis.

People everywhere are struggling to find and pay for homes. When we do build new housing, the construction unleashes tons of greenhouse gases. We need more affordable houses built faster without polluting the Earth. What if you could 3D print eco-friendly houses in months, weeks, or even days? What if you could quickly manufacture modular, mass timber buildings that actually slow climate change? And what if learning to 3D print human settlements on the Moon and Mars helps us tackle housing challenges here on Earth?

All of these things are possible. Technology offers hope and solutions, but it takes teamwork to challenge old ideas and change traditional ways of doing things. Discover why homes are essential for our health and well-being and meet trailblazers who are proving that we can create affordable green housing and healthy communities at the same time.

Sloths and Their Moths by Katie Lee Reinert, illustrated by Gabi Moraes (Tielmour Press 3/31/2026) - Using the cumulative story format, like the House That Jack Built, the primary text begins with the rainforest and zooms into the various things which live in a sloth's fur. A secondary sidebar on each page provides additional information for older readers and care givers. A fun fact, a glossary, and a "seek and find" at the back encourage readers to go back and look closely at the illustrations. This is a really fun way to explore these unusual relationships in an elusive animal.

Synopsis: A bright and vibrant nature book that helps kids learn about the tiny world that lives within a sloth’s fur!

A sloth’s fur is full of life. Many small creatures live there, and each one plays an important part in the sloth’s world. Told in cumulative format, Sloths and Their Moths zooms in to take a closer look at each part of the unique relationship between sloths, the moths that live on them, and so much more! Kids will discover each layer of this unique ecosystem, step by step, in a fun and educational way!

Each page adds new details as kids learn about bugs, moths, algae, and how they all work together with the sloth. The repeat-and-build style supports early reading skills, memory, and language growth.

At the end of the book, kids can play a seek-and-find game to search for hidden animals and tiny creatures. This helps build focus, attention, and curiosity.

Rooted in Wonder: Celebrating the World's National Trees by Michelle Cusolito, illustrated by Marya Wright (Moon & Bird/Penguin Random House 3/31/2026) - This stunning STEM picture book carries the reader around the world to discover twelve National Trees, including the Banyan (India), Wattle (Australia), Sugar Maple (Canada), Oak (U.S., England, & Ireland), and Royal Palm (Cuba). Lovely poems for each tree offer the cultural and practical importance of each tree, as well as unusual aspects (such as treating Malaria or creating a 'forest' from one tree). A gorgeous vertical spread shows the marvel of trees from their crowns to their roots, and a beautiful map adds to this wonderful book which will entice young kids and inspire them to discover the secrets of trees around the world.

Be sure to check out the book's Activity Pack - full of crafts, discussions & questions, and science.

Synopsis: Get to know the tremendous trees that shape our world!

Meet 12 national trees and uncover WILD facts, ANCIENT legends, and the INCREDIBLE creatures hidden in their leaves! Travel the world and find out how each country honors, protects, and proudly celebrates their national tree:

· QUINA (Peru & Ecuador) – Did you know that its bark has saved MILLIONS of people from dying of malaria?

· OAK (USA, England & Ireland) – Did you know that this tree is the one most often struck by lightning? No wonder it’s linked to Zeus and his thunderbolts!

· OLIVE (Albania) – Did you know that this ancient tree makes shiny “liquid gold” that’s tasty AND healing? (It’s olive oil and people have used it for over 6,000 years!)

Each of these trees have superpowers, secrets, and stories to tell. All are rooted in wonder and waiting to be discovered.

Thank you all for giving us a little peek into yourself and your new books. Wishing you all enormous success with you upcoming projects.

Laurel Neme – The GiRaft: A Real-Life Giraffe Rescue (Sleeping Bear Press 3/15/2026) –

Website: https://www.laurelneme.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurelANeme/

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/laurelneme

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurelneme/

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/laurelneme.bsky.social

Elaine Kachala – Building Homes for All: Technology for a Fair and Green Planet (Orca Book Publishers 3/17/2026) –

Website: elainekachala.com/

Facebook: facebook.com/elainekachala

Twitter/X: twitter.com/elainekachala

Instagram: instagram.com/elainekachala/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/elainekachala

Katie Lee Reinert - Sloths and Their Moths (Tielmour Press 3/31/2026) -

Website: https://www.katieleereinert.com/

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/katieleereinert.bsky.social

Michelle Cusolito - Rooted in Wonder: Celebrating the World's National Trees (Moon & Bird/Penguin Random House 3/31/2026) -

Website: https://www.michellecusolito.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcusolito/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.cusolito

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mcusolito.bsky.social