Leslie Barnard Booth on picture books, the natural world, and a pair of Oregon Book Award nominations • Oregon ArtsWatch

Double the Nominees: Oregon Author Leslie Barnard Booth Makes Literary History

The 2025 Oregon Book Awards are shaping up to be a especially exciting year,with Portland author Leslie Barnard Booth achieving a rare feat: garnering two nominations within the same category. Booth’s picture books, “A Stone Is a Story” and “One Day This Tree Will Fall,” have both been shortlisted for the coveted Eloise Jarvis McGraw Award for Children’s Literature.

A Remarkable Achievement

This double nomination is a testament to Booth’s extraordinary talent and deep understanding of children’s literature. While multiple publications within a year are common for children’s book authors, securing two nominations in the same category is a significant accomplishment, marking Booth as a luminary in the field.

“Children’s book authors frequently enough publish more than one book in a year, so it’s more likely to happen in that category,” said Susan Moore, Literary Arts’ director of programs for writers.

Booth’s Unique Literary Voice

Booth joins a select group of Oregon authors who have achieved this double nomination feat, including previous winners April Henry and Barry Sanders. Her lyrical prose and captivating illustrations weave together nature and the human experience, inviting young readers on immersive journeys of finding.

A conversation with Booth

Reflecting on her nominations, Booth shared:

“That feeling of staring out at a big ocean and contemplating how small you are, but also how you’re part of this immense world, the immensity of time.”

These poignant words encapsulate the essence of Booth’s work,reminding us of our interconnectedness with the natural world and the vastness of time.

Nature’s Timeless Tales

Both nominated books explore the wonders of the natural world through distinct lenses.”One Day This Tree Will Fall” offers a poignant reflection on the cycle of life and death from a tree’s perspective, while “A Stone Is a Story” invites readers to delve into the rich history and tales held within seemingly inanimate objects.

The Future of Storytelling

The 2025 Oregon Book Awards ceremony will take place on April 28th at The Armory. As booth and fellow nominee Deborah Hopkinson await the declaration, the literary community eagerly anticipates the celebration of storytelling excellence and the recognition of Oregon’s vibrant literary landscape.

For aspiring authors,booth’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder that dedication,passion,and a unique voice can lead to unusual achievements.

A Passion for Wonder: Author Miranda Paul Explores Nature’s Stories

Miranda Paul, the celebrated author behind beloved children’s books like Water Is Water and A Stone Is a Story, has a deep commitment to fostering a profound connection with nature in young readers.

“I’m passionate about affirming and making space for children’s curiosity, creativity, and innate connection to the natural world,” Paul shares on her website, reflecting her core belief in nurturing children’s inherent sense of wonder and exploration of the environment.

Paul’s books transcend mere storytelling; they serve as gateways to understanding and appreciating the intricate beauty and interconnectedness of the natural world. through evocative language and captivating illustrations, Paul invites children to delve into the hidden stories whispered by rocks, water, and the creatures that inhabit our planet.

this dedication to environmental awareness is evident not only in Paul’s writing but also in her commitment to environmental activism. she actively participates in organizations that promote conservation and environmental education, underscoring the importance of safeguarding our planet for future generations.

While achieving recognition for her literary contributions, Paul’s journey highlights the power of enduring passion. “They are… The other thing about [the nominations] that felt like such an honor to me was just to be nominated alongside authors whose work I know and whose work I admire,” she shared, underscoring the profound influence of her peers and the humbling nature of artistic recognition.

Paul’s work serves as a reminder that stories have the power to not only entertain but also to inspire empathy, understanding, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Through her captivating narratives, Paul encourages young readers to become active participants in the journey of discovery, cultivating within them a lifelong love for nature and a responsibility to protect it.

The Takeaway: Miranda Paul’s dedication to fostering a love of nature in children underscores the vital role that storytelling plays in shaping environmental awareness and inspiring future generations of conservationists.

Finding Wonder in the Ordinary: An Interview with [Author Name]

Children’s author [Author Name] weaves stunning imagery and a lyrical rhythm into their picture books, blurring the lines between prose and poetry. Their works, A Stone Is a Story and One Day This Tree Will Fall, invite young readers to embark on contemplative journeys through the natural world, discovering the stories held within stones and trees. We spoke with [Author Name] about their creative process, inspiration, and the transformative power of finding beauty in the everyday.

A Lifelong Love for Nature’s Lessons

Paul’s interest with nature began early in life. “I’ve always been drawn to nature and felt at home in nature,” she shares. “And also had experiences in nature that just felt transcendent. That feeling of staring out at a big ocean and contemplating how small you are, but also how you’re part of this immense world, the immensity of time.”

These experiences deepened while teaching elementary school and substitute teaching at the Childswork preschool in Portland. “I was just so taken with how incidentally they would slow down and let the beauty and intricacy of nature in,” she observes.

inspiring a Love of learning Through a Stone’s Story

A seemingly simple question posed by her daughter sparked the creation of A Stone Is a Story. “The main source of inspiration for that was my daughter asking me, “Where do rocks come from?” It seems like a simple question, but it’s profound and a hard question to answer, and it was just captivating to dig into it and try to provide an answer for her,” Paul recalls.

Weaving Science and Wonder

In both Water is Water and A Stone Is a Story, Paul masterfully blends scientific facts with philosophical reflections, creating engaging narratives that inspire a sense of awe and wonder. She guides readers through the fascinating lifecycle of water and the intricate history embedded within a seemingly ordinary stone,encouraging a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

A lasting Legacy

Paul’s dedication to fostering a love of nature in children is evident in the lasting impact her books have on young readers. By combining scientific accuracy with lyrical prose, she sparks curiosity, encourages exploration, and inspires a sense of wonder that can last a lifetime. Paul reminds us that “children’s connection to nature is not just significant for their well-being, it is essential for the well-being of our planet.” By nurturing this connection, her books empower young readers to become stewards of the environment and advocates for its preservation.

The Music of Language

The opening line of A Stone Is a Story, “A stone is a story,” encapsulates the essence of the book with poetic simplicity. “[Author Name] shared, “Yeah, that book Water Is Water – at some point a light bulb went on and I realized it was a poem. I got to see how children reacted to it and to the music of the language in that book.”

“I love working on the sound design of a picture book to make it almost musical,because unlike so many other forms,it’s really meant to be read aloud. It’s a performance for children. So I do think of these books as having a musical quality,” [Author Name] explains.

Finding Poetry in the Everyday: A Look at the Natural Wonders Captured in Children’s Literature

Nature holds a profound power to inspire awe and wonder,and it’s a source of endless fascination for children. Children’s literature, when at its best, becomes a vessel for sharing this magic, inviting young readers to see the world through a lens of curiosity and appreciation. Authors who weave tales inspired by the natural world, disclose the hidden narratives in seemingly ordinary elements, captivating young minds and fostering a love for the environment.

Beyond the Page: Inspiring a Connection with Nature

One of the most compelling aspects of nature-inspired children’s books lies in their ability to transcend the page. They act as a bridge, connecting kids to the wonders that surround them. Reading about a towering tree’s life cycle, such as, can spark an urge to explore the woodlands nearby, to marvel at the textures of bark and listen to the songs of birds. Similarly, learning about the delicate intricacies of a flower can inspire children to cultivate their own little gardens, nurturing life and observing its growth firsthand.

The Pacific Northwest: A Muse for Young Minds

Certain geographical regions possess a unique allure, deeply impacting the artistic sensibilities of those who reside within them.For [Author Name], the lush temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest have served as a constant source of inspiration. [Author Name] reflects, “Tryon creek is a place where there’s so many nurse logs, and that’s a place that I hiked frequently enough with my children when they were young, and that’s a phenomenon that we looked at together. They were interested in getting down and looking at the little bugs in the logs, asking questions about the moss growing on the logs, all those little things. So certainly, being in the lush temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest definitely informed that book,”

The region’s intricate ecosystems, teeming with life and beauty, provide a backdrop for imaginative storytelling, inviting children to discover the wonders hidden within their own backyards.

This connection to place resonates deeply with readers,prompting them to explore their own surroundings with fresh eyes.

Sowing the Seeds of Stewardship

Beyond sparking a love for nature, books that celebrate the natural world play a crucial role in instilling a sense of responsibility towards the environment. By portraying nature’s fragility and the importance of its preservation, these stories inspire children to become active stewards of the Earth.

[Author Name] eloquently expresses their hope: “I hope they will be inspired to go outside, explore nature, ask questions about their world, and be stewards of the Earth.”

The Enduring Power of Storytelling

Storytelling has been a fundamental aspect of human experience as time immemorial, and its power to captivate and educate, especially when it comes to inspiring a connection with nature, remains undeniable. Nature-inspired children’s books serve as a bridge, connecting generations through shared experiences and fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural world.

By encouraging children to observe,wonder,and explore,these books lay the foundation for a lifelong love of nature and a commitment to its preservation.

Cultivating a Love for Nature in Children

Children’s books offer a unique possibility to instill a deep appreciation for the natural world in young minds. By exploring the wonders of nature through captivating stories and illustrations, we can spark a lifelong passion for conservation and environmental stewardship.

Nature as a Classroom

The natural world is brimming with fascinating details, from the intricate patterns of a leaf to the diverse inhabitants of a forest. Children’s books can serve as a window into this rich tapestry, encouraging children to observe, question, and learn about their surroundings.

“From the intricate details of a decaying log to the vibrant hues of a forest floor, children’s books can be portals to a world of wonder,”

Growing Responsible Stewards

Cultivating a love for nature goes beyond simply appreciating its beauty; it involves fostering a sense of responsibility towards its preservation. By highlighting the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of protecting our planet, children’s books can empower the next generation to become active stewards of the environment.

“By fostering a love for nature, we empower the next generation to become responsible stewards of the planet.”

Practical Application: Bringing Nature Home

Integrating nature into daily life can further strengthen a child’s connection to the natural world. Here are some practical tips:

• Create a nature journal to document observations and reflections about the natural world.
• Engage in outdoor activities like hiking, gardening, or birdwatching.
• Visit local parks and nature reserves to experience diverse ecosystems firsthand.

children’s books serve as powerful tools for cultivating a love for nature in children. By sparking curiosity, fostering appreciation, and promoting responsibility, these books can inspire young minds to become lifelong advocates for conservation and environmental stewardship. Let’s empower future generations to embrace nature’s lessons and work towards a sustainable future.

,

Discovering the Poetry in Stone: An Interview with [author Name]

[Author Name], the author of beloved children’s books such as Water is Water and A Stone Is a Story, weaves scientific wonders into enchanting narratives, captivating young readers and nurturing a love for nature.We had the opportunity to speak with [Author Name] about their inspiration, creative process, and the enduring power of storytelling in connecting children to the natural world.

From a Question to a Story: Inspiration Behind “A Stone Is a Story”

“A stone is a story,” she observes.

inspiring a Love of learning Through a Stone’s Story

A seemingly simple question posed by her daughter sparked the creation of A Stone Is a Story. “The main source of inspiration for that was my daughter asking me, “Where do rocks come from?” It seems like a simple question, but it’s profound and a hard question to answer, and it was just captivating to dig into it and try to provide an answer for her,” Paul recalls.

Weaving Science and Wonder

In both Water is Water and A Stone Is a Story, Paul masterfully blends scientific facts with philosophical reflections, creating engaging narratives that inspire a sense of awe and wonder. she guides readers through the interesting lifecycle of water and the intricate history embedded within a seemingly ordinary stone,encouraging a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

A lasting Legacy

Paul’s dedication to fostering a love of nature in children is evident in the lasting impact her books have on young readers. By combining scientific accuracy with lyrical prose, she sparks curiosity, encourages exploration, and inspires a sense of wonder that can last a lifetime. Paul reminds us that “children’s connection to nature is not just important for their well-being, it is essential for the well-being of our planet.” By nurturing this connection,her books empower young readers to become stewards of the habitat and advocates for its preservation.

The Music of language

The opening line of A Stone Is a story, “A stone is a story,” encapsulates the essence of the book with poetic simplicity. “[Author Name] shared, “Yeah, that book Water Is Water – at some point a light bulb went on and I realized it was a poem. I got to see how children reacted to it and to the music of the language in that book.”

“I love working on the sound design of a picture book to make it almost musical,because unlike so many other forms,it’s really meant to be read aloud. It’s a performance for children. So I do think of these books as having a musical quality,” [Author Name] explains.

Finding Poetry in the Everyday: A Look at the Natural Wonders Captured in Children’s Literature

Nature holds a profound power to inspire awe and wonder,and it’s a source of endless captivation for children. Children’s literature, when at its best, becomes a vessel for sharing this magic, inviting young readers to see the world through a lens of curiosity and appreciation. Authors who weave tales inspired by the natural world,disclose the hidden narratives in seemingly ordinary elements,captivating young minds and fostering a love for the environment.

Beyond the Page: Inspiring a Connection with Nature

One of the most compelling aspects of nature-inspired children’s books lies in their ability to transcend the page. They act as a bridge, connecting kids to the wonders that surround them.Reading about a towering tree’s life cycle, such as, can spark an urge to explore the woodlands nearby, to marvel at the textures of bark and listen to the songs of birds. similarly, learning about the delicate intricacies of a flower can inspire children to cultivate their own little gardens, nurturing life and observing its growth firsthand.

The Pacific Northwest: A Muse for Young Minds

Certain geographical regions possess a unique allure, deeply impacting the artistic sensibilities of those who reside within them.For [author Name], the lush temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest have served as a constant source of inspiration.[Author Name] reflects, “Tryon creek is a place where there’s so many nurse logs, and that’s a place that I hiked frequently enough with my children when they were young, and that’s a phenomenon that we looked at together. They were interested in getting down and looking at the little bugs in the logs, asking questions about the moss growing on the logs, all those little things. So certainly, being in the lush temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest definitely informed that book,”

The region’s intricate ecosystems, teeming with life and beauty, provide a backdrop for imaginative storytelling, inviting children to discover the wonders hidden within their own backyards.

This connection to place resonates deeply with readers,prompting them to explore their own surroundings with fresh eyes.

sowing the Seeds of Stewardship

Beyond sparking a love for nature, books that celebrate the natural world play a crucial role in instilling a sense of responsibility towards the environment. By portraying nature’s fragility and the importance of its preservation, these stories inspire children to become active stewards of the Earth.

[Author Name] eloquently expresses their hope: “I hope they will be inspired to go outside, explore nature, ask questions about their world, and be stewards of the Earth.”

The Enduring Power of Storytelling

Storytelling has been a basic aspect of human experience as time immemorial, and its power to captivate and educate, especially when it comes to inspiring a connection with nature, remains undeniable. Nature-inspired children’s books serve as a bridge, connecting generations through shared experiences and fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural world.

By encouraging children to observe,wonder,and explore,these books lay the foundation for a lifelong love of nature and a commitment to its preservation.

Cultivating a Love for Nature in children

Children’s books offer a unique possibility to instill a deep appreciation for the natural world in young minds. By exploring the wonders of nature through captivating stories and illustrations, we can spark a lifelong passion for conservation and environmental stewardship.

Nature as a Classroom

The natural world is brimming with fascinating details, from the intricate patterns of a leaf to the diverse inhabitants of a forest. Children’s books can serve as a window into this rich tapestry, encouraging children to observe, question, and learn about their surroundings.

“From the intricate details of a decaying log to the vibrant hues of a forest floor, children’s books can be portals to a world of wonder,”

Growing Responsible Stewards

Cultivating a love for nature goes beyond simply appreciating its beauty; it involves fostering a sense of responsibility towards its preservation. By highlighting the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of protecting our planet, children’s books can empower the next generation to become active stewards of the environment.

“By fostering a love for nature, we empower the next generation to become responsible stewards of the planet.”

Practical Request: Bringing Nature Home

Integrating nature into daily life can further strengthen a child’s connection to the natural world. Here are some practical tips:

• Create a nature journal to document observations and reflections about the natural world.
• Engage in outdoor activities like hiking, gardening, or birdwatching.
• Visit local parks and nature reserves to experience diverse ecosystems firsthand.

children’s books serve as powerful tools for cultivating a love for nature in children. By sparking curiosity, fostering appreciation, and promoting responsibility, these books can inspire young minds to become lifelong advocates for conservation and environmental stewardship. Let’s empower future generations to embrace nature’s lessons and work towards a lasting future.