Laura Ogana, an author of the children’s book “Saving the Forest and Other Stories” in Nairobi, Kenya, believes that educating children about the effects of climate change will have a long-lasting impact on future generations. Her newly published children’s story and coloring book help raise awareness of climate action, but focus on tiny humans.
“My journey of awareness on social and environmental issues began in Primary School. I was a Girl Guide, and I participated in tree-planting activities,” Ms. Ogana said.
Saving the Forest: Three in One, Story and Color Book
The children’s story and color book has three short stories: Kobi Travels To Nairobi, Saving the Beautiful Forest, and What a Christmas. There’s also a question section at the end to encourage reflection.
While many people feel that social, environmental, and conservation issues are not for children, Ms. Ogana says, “It is the best time to plant a seed.”
The featured story in the children’s book Saving the Beautiful Forests is a tale of human-wildlife conflict. In the story, the protagonist, King Simba, and the antagonist, Chief Mtu, reach a peaceful resolution to save the forest after a lengthy dispute that has caused forest degradation.
Her story isn’t too far-fetched from our realities. The SPM (Summary of Policy Makers) on the IPCC report reads, “It’s unequivocal that human influence has warmed the atmosphere, ocean, and land. As a result, widespread and rapid changes in the atmosphere, ocean, cryosphere, and biosphere have occurred.” According to the report, land and ocean have accounted for a near-constant share of 56% of CO2 emissions from human activities globally each year over the past six decades.
What do the Children Think of the Book and Deforestation?
According to Ms. Ogana, the reception from parents who’ve bought the book is positive. The bookstore attendant revealed that most parents were motivated to buy the book because of its environmental message.
“Mum, is the air cleaner in the forest than at home?” Leon, a 9-year-old boy, asked his mother after reading the book. Cindy, an 8-year-old, was also curious whether the number of trees affected rainfall.
On a global scale, there’s an ongoing discussion about how authors can talk to children about climate change in a way that empowers them to act rather than paralyze them with fear. An article by The Guardian also discusses “Tears at Bedtime,” circling back to the question, “Are children’s books causing climate anxiety?”
In my opinion, Ms. Ogana’s book is quite relatable. The storyline has conflict and resolution, and best of all, it’s informational.
“I wish humans and animals could live happily ever after like in the storybook,” Lilian, an 8-year-old, confided in her mother.
Her choice of illustration on the cover page is also spot on. A boy and a girl are planting trees with the help of an older man. Behind them, there are trees and wildlife. Her strategy is geared towards motivating them to make a change.
“The stories are good. I was inspired to show unity on the cover, just like the story does. The whole concept is about how when we go against nature, we lose,” Mel Ogana, the book’s Cover Illustrator, said.
The Children’s Book is Printed on Repurposed Paper
Apart from publishing, Ms. Ogana is also an environmental crusader. Her book, Saving the Beautiful Forests and Other Stories, was printed on repurposed paper. She’s also challenged herself to plant as many trees as books she’s published now and in the future.
She’s currently looking to work with printers that use 100% repurposed materials to help save trees and raise awareness of climate action.
“Getting the books published digitally would be perfect, but it would deny children in the village who are close to the degradation of forests from gaining awareness on climate change through my stories,” she said.
Sadhguru said, “Trees are our closest relatives. What they exhale, we inhale, what we exhale, they inhale.”
There’s a storm brewing politically, socially, and economically. And while it’s possible to veer away from some of these issues, it’s impossible to prevent the after-effects of climate change at a certain threshold. “The one thing God gave us that animals don’t have is the power of choice. It can be a blessing or a curse,” Unnamed environmentalist.
Change is possible, and responsibility is a value we should own. We shouldn’t underestimate the power of one. Plant a tree, don’t litter, and teach your child about environmental conservation; the planet needs it now more than ever. Such efforts go a long way. Teaching them young ensures natural treasures like Kaptagat Forest in Keiyo South or Mt Kasigau in Taita Taveta remain naturally intact for future generations to enjoy.
Saving the Forest and Other Stories is available at the Nuria Store, Kenya, Moi Avenue, The One Building, Nairobi, and can also be ordered online here.
About The Author
Mercy Atieno is a Kenyan travel and lifestyle writer passionate about storytelling, culture, and exploration. With over five years of experience in travel writing, she creates engaging content that highlights destinations, entertainment spots, and unique travel experiences across Africa. Mercy studied Journalism at the Kenya School of Mass Communication, where she earned a diploma that strengthened her research and storytelling skills.
She contributes travel and lifestyle content to Reach The Dodo, focusing on guides for cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Nairobi. Her writing blends practical travel advice with vivid narratives inspired by nature, culture, and local traditions. Mercy dreams of traveling the world full-time while embracing an off-grid lifestyle and sharing authentic experiences that inspire readers to explore and appreciate diverse cultures.
Mercy can be contacted through her X account.