Bringing National Parks to Life at REI: A Family Event That Celebrates Nature and Story

Last week, I stopped by REI and saw our event display all set up. The bright chalkboard, the books resting on the bench, and the little forest doodles around the edges made me smile. It captured the spirit of this event. We want to bring national parks to life for kids and families. We want children to feel the wonder of wild places and to see how stories can help them care about the world around them.

REI has invited us to host a family event on Saturday, December 6, from 12 to 2 pm. It will be held at the store, and it is open to children, parents, caregivers, teachers, and anyone who loves nature. We will read from our national park series and share simple ways families can explore and learn together, whether they are in a backyard, a neighborhood park, or a faraway forest.

Our three books will be there.
Fish in the Desert shares the story of the desert pupfish in Death Valley.
Frogs on the Mountain takes children to Yosemite as they follow the mountain yellow-legged frog and learn why this species matters to the health of the entire ecosystem.
Fishers in the Forest, our newest book, brings readers into Sequoia and Kings Canyon and introduces them to the elusive Pacific fisher. Each story invites children to slow down, pay attention to the small details, and feel connected to wild places. Our books invite young readers to notice the small details that make wildlife so unique and to understand why conservation matters. Children care deeply about the natural world when they feel connected to it.

If you plan to attend, please register through REI. This helps the store prepare the space so every child has room to sit, explore, and enjoy the activities. The event will include a read-aloud, hands-on activity, and time for children to ask questions. We hope families leave feeling inspired to visit a national park and to look at familiar places with fresh eyes.

We are grateful to partner with REI. They have always encouraged people to get outside and to enjoy time in nature.

We hope to see you there and to share an afternoon filled with stories, curiosity, and the beauty of our national lands.