What folks are saying …

Night Watchers

5 1/2 STARS OUT OF 5 STARS!

I started this book loving the writing style and information but found myself wishing it was in color. It was so well done I felt like I was missing something and I was! I went back to the cover and saw that this book is intentionally not colored in because it's left for the reader TO COLOR! And this already awesome book just got awesomer (yeah I know that's not a word). Plus, when I had already decided I was giving it 5 stars... we made it to the activity guide at the back. Which made me want to give it 5 and a half stars. – Jenna S, Reviewer

Night Watchers

Night Watchers does not disappoint! Young readers (and those not so young) will love the graphic novel format and the ability to color the pages. The engaging illustrations by Jeff Yesh add extra details. Bonus for teachers: the back of the book includes lots of fun learning activities.” — Julie Gulley, Principal, Slate Hill Elementary School, Worthington, Ohio

Night Watchers

Do you love facts about animals? Have you always wanted to know more about the animals where YOU live (North America)? Look inside! Night Watchers will allow you to see through the eyes of Eddie, an elf owl. Come along with Eddie and the Story Monster as he morphs before your eyes! Teachers, check-out the visuals and fun ways to build background knowledge. Also included, a Reading Guide to check comprehension.  — K. M. Potts-Brooks, English Language Coordinator

Night Watchers

Story Monster has a visit with Eddie the Elf Owl.  Eddie introduces Story Monster to a variety of desert nocturnal animals.  Although Story Monster does not speak, the little monster morphs into different animals to help Eddie explain special features about the animals.  Children will find Story Monster fun and engaging. The book contains a teacher friendly Reading Guide. — Kerrlita Westrick, Chair of the Grand Canyon Readers Award

Night Watchers

Conrad Storad has done it again with his new book, Night Watchers! Storad's books are incredible. My students love them! As a teacher, I appreciate that pages with activity ideas, fun facts, and a glossary are always included at the back of the book. Nonfiction is a genre most children do not choose when picking books. Storad knows how to deliver informational text to young readers. I learned many new facts. He makes non-fiction fun! The illustrations by Jeff Yesh are fantastic. Children can color the pages as well. They’ll love that. Bravo Mr. Storad! — Melanie Vinay, 3rd grade teacher, Barberton, Ohio

Night Watchers

Night Watchers is both educational and entertaining. What a delightful surprise when the Story Monster transforms into nocturnal characters as Eddie, the feathered encyclopedia, describes them. A story for all ages. The Reading Guide and Activities at the end will serve as an outstanding learning tool for young readers. Highly recommended! — Ann Hutchison, MLS, Director,  Barberton Public Library, Barberton, Ohio

Night Watchers

5 STARS

Joining Story Monster on this nocturnal journey alongside Eddie the Elf Owl was an absolute delight. The book's engaging storytelling and "graphic novel" style illustrations kept me hooked from start to finish. It's a perfect read for young learners, parents, and teachers who want to ignite curiosity about science and nature. Night Watchers is an excellent resource for promoting literacy and fostering a love for S.T.E.A.M. subjects in a fun and engaging way. — Abigail L, Librarian

About Story Monsters Among Us

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This is an enjoyable read reminding us of the power of story—past, present, and future. Story Monsters come in many shapes and sizes. They love nothing more than a good story. It takes us all the way back to the ancient past and then into the future reminding us of the evolution of storytelling throughout various cultures; from cave paintings in southern France 31,000 years ago, to cuneiform impressions 6,000 years ago in southern Iraq, Aesop’s fables in 400BC, the creation of paper 1900 years ago in China, Shakespeare’s plays at the Globe Theatre in 1275AD, the Grimm brothers in 1810 in Germany, Dr. Seuss in 1961, and the near future on Mars. I loved this journey through time.

The illustrations not only enhance the story but are also charming, each showing the shapeshifting Story Monsters living among us throughout history and across cultures. This is an educational read for both children and adults. The book includes a “Words to Learn” list and an activity guide that parents and teachers will find helpful. This book would be an ideal addition to your classroom and/or library and a welcome gift to children who have the love of storytelling.

I received an electronic ARC from Story Monsters Press. Opinions expressed here are my own.”

— Betty Taylor, Reading is My Passion blog

About Story Monsters Among Us

“I just received my ‘Story Monsters Among Us’ book and I love it. It exceeded my expectations. I was a second grade teacher for 30 years and always had storytime in my classroom. I would have loved to have added this book to my collection to help me explain and show the students the importance and the history of storytelling. I love the way the story explains the history so clearly and in depth and the way the illustrations are drawn. 

The book is very well organized and easy to comprehend. The free activity guide that goes with it is a wonderful way to engage students even further and give the children many creative ways to connect. I will be using this book as a featured book at my storytimes during my Little Free Library events.

I highly recommend this book for any student, parent, teacher, or anyone interested in the art and history of storytelling.”

— Karen Morales, Teacher/Author/Little Library Steward

About Story Monsters Among Us

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Storad introduces readers to storytelling and shares briefly about what they will see in this book. He then takes us back to the first recorded drawings and writing and moves through history. Love the Story Monsters observing everything and participating at times. I appreciate that cultures from across the globe are included so readers see diverse civilizations and the roots of their own cultures. The book brings us into predictions for the future where humans travel to other planets and bring their stories with them. A brief summary of storytelling that captures the historical process and lets readers decide on the connections to our modern time.”

— Pam Gombert, Librarian, Goodreads

About Story Monsters Among Us

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Conrad J. Storad’s ‘Story Monsters Among Us: A Brief History of Human Storytelling’ was a joy to read! The text by Storad and the unique and colorful illustrations by Jeff Yesh made the information about the history of storytelling come alive.

The mysterious shapeshifting Story Monster that moves throughout the past and into the future will most definitely engage young readers as they learn about various cultures and the art of storytelling within those cultures. The addition of word definitions and an activity guide at the end of the book are a great bonus that parents and teachers will especially appreciate.

It isn’t easy to create a book that is educational and informative while still being fun and interactive, but Storad has succeeded in doing just that!”

— Deborah Edmisten, Author

About Story Monsters Among Us

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This was really fun to read. I loved how it was teaching history in a comic form. My third grader loved reading it.”

— Sheila Gentry, Teacher

About Story Monsters Among Us

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Brightly colored illustrations demonstrate the long-ago history of story writing and storytelling in a fun and intriguing way. Pictures really are worth a thousand words! This cleverly written book allows for a self-reader or a storyteller to educate while also engaging the imagination.”

— Cynthia Kern OBrien, Award-winning Author and Publisher

About Story Monsters Among Us

“Award-winning author, Conrad J. Storad, has a wonderful format for his books that includes laying a background, telling a delightful story, supporting the vocabulary in the story, and sharing ideas with parents and teachers to reinforce the story told; at the same time including talented artist illustrators who visually bring each page to life. This book presents an enlightening history of storytelling and story tellers. I particularly enjoyed following the historical characters through the ages and their ways of storytelling, the brightly colored images, and the ‘four-eyed monster’ who turns monsters into friends. As a fan of Storad's ‘Arizona Way Out West & Wacky’ series, I highly recommend this book and look forward to sharing it with the Clemenceau Heritage Museum, the Cottonwood Oak Creek School District (Cottonwood, AZ), local librarians, friends, and my great-granddaughter, Austrie Gray. Thank you, Mr. Storad, for bringing fun, laughter, enlightenment, and great stories to educate and brighten children's lives across the world.”

— Isabel Erickson, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, Team Leader of Educational Programs for Children, Verde Historical Society and Clemenceau Heritage Museum

Author visit to Esperenza Elementary – Ajo, Arizona

Dear Mr. Storad,

I am one of the kids you saw at Esperanza Elementary. I really enjoy your work and I like how much effort and time you take in making these great books. You are one of the people who are inspiring me to want to become an author. I have currently made at least three books-however. I have not published them or anything. (I criticize my writing very seriously). I have never seen a real, professional author in person ever! I thought it was very cool that you came to our school!

(Say hi to the Story Monster for me. Haha!)

— Carrick Webb
February 4, 2017

From a teacher in Anaheim, California

Hello Mr. Storad,

My name is Amelia Bauman and I am a 3rd grade teacher in Anaheim, California. Each year, my school has a big Open House where students display work pertaining to a certain topic. This year, I chose to do "The Mojave Desert" as my theme. Starting this week, my students are learning all about the desert, particularly desert animals. My mom is a kindergarten teacher in Thermal, California, and she sent me one of your books ( Desert Night Shift) as a gift. I just read it to my students and they loved it! It is the perfect balance between fun and facts. The back of the book with the wood rat information (size, diet, color, range) prompted my students to ask if they could do their own research on the computer and look up pictures of wood rats. We also talked about the vocabulary words on the "Some Words to Learn" page, and we all learned a new word- midden! I plan on buying more of your desert animal books in the future. They are so much fun! Thank you for what you do!

— Amelia Bauman, Fairmont Private School
January 6, 2017

Author visit to St. Francis de Sales Elementary – Akron, Ohio

Dear Conrad,

I wanted to send a very heartfelt thank you for spending the day with us! Our students definitely enjoyed your visit. It is people like you who inspire our students to imagine, be creative, and dream big. So, thank you, again, for all that you have done for our school!

— Kathryn Buzzelli, Principal
May 17, 2016

Author visit to Kyrene de las Lomas Elementary – Phoenix, Arizona

Conrad,

I can’t tell you the number of holds that have been placed on your books by teachers and students since your wonderful visit last Tuesday! Thank you for dealing so diplomatically with our rather talkative students, for exciting us about science and reading, and for you very generous donations to our library.

I do believe you are the best when it comes to author visits!

— Amy Hubbard, Librarian
March 30, 2016

Author visit to Gethsemane Lutheran School – Tempe, Arizona

Dear Mr. Storad,

Thank you so very much for being a part of our Lutheran School's Week at Gethsemane Lutheran School. I have heard nothing but wonderful things shared by my colleagues. They appreciated your ability to reach all levels of students. Thank you for getting our books to us so quickly! My students can hardly wait to start our literature study on you and your books. There ought to be some great illustrations produced in this one.

— Susan Burke, Kindergarten Teacher
February 4, 2016

In-service writing workshop for Tempe Elementary School District teachers —Tempe, Arizona

Dear Mr. Storad,

I just wanted to thank you for, once again, providing a warm, relaxed, wonderful presentation. You always mange to inform and entertain and support us with lots of resources. It reminds me of the best reasons I am a teacher. I'm so thankful that you are continuing to write and to speak. I still have a quiet smile on my face.

— Kathleen Pelley, Teacher, Rover Elementary School
January 13, 2009

Author visit to Parkridge Elementary School in Peoria, Arizona

Dear Mr. Storad,

I’m from Parkridge Elmentry u just reasently visted us. All of those trauntla -n- scourpine story 's grossed me out . I wrote this e-mail because u really inspired me to be an authur. That was in the begening of yo presentatenion. When i herd how manytimes u had 2 write those booooooooks i didn't no if i could do it. U must really like what u do. I thank u for visitin us. hope the students were gooooooooood listeners.

— Emily Lynn, Second Grader
May 16, 2008

Author visit to Arizona Academy of Science – Phoenix, Arizona

Greetings Mr. Storad,

On behalf of the students, faculty and staff at Arizona Academy of Science I'd like to thank you for your time and dedication to Arizona youth.  Our school benefited greatly from your visit to our student assembly in March. Please know that you are always welcome to visit us here at the school and that your works will continue to have a permanent presence here in our classrooms and library.

— Vaughn Flannigan, Principal
April 23, 2012

Author visit to Sts. Simon & Jude School – Phoenix, Arizona

Dear Conrad,

You were absolutely wonderful. I can’t tell you how many “thank you’s” I have gotten. Also, everyone was telling how wonderful you were – the way you spoke to the children, kept them engaged, etc. Even people who didn’t get to attend. You made me look really good.

The kids have been coming in all day looking for your books! We love them. Thank you for your donations, too. That was so generous. You’re the best.

— Gail Carretto, Teacher/Librarian
November 22, 2011

Comments from fifth graders from Sts. Simon & Jude School about my program on Scorpions and Tarantulas:

“It was very interesting, but afterwards I couldn’t eat my lunch because all I could think of is how tarantulas capture and eat their food. I was really surprised that it took Conrad 17 times to write the final copy of the book!”  — Kristen Chua

 “I liked learning about scorpions and how they hide inside dark areas in your house. I thought they only lived in the desert!”  — Amanda Johnson

 “I thought the ending was going to be really scary and interesting picture, but it was cute and cuddly.”  — Eve Worden

 “He was funny.”  — Michael Nilsen

 “Mr. Storad is obviously a great author and I want to read some of his books!” — Luke Aldridge

 “The scorpions creeped me out that I couldn’t eat my lunch!”  — Felicity Hacker.

“When I told my dad about how the scorpions eat, he was grossed out!” — Shannon Shields

November 22, 2011

Picture book teaches children fun facts

Rattlesnake Rules written by Conrad J. Storad is a wonderful picture book that takes the reader on a fun adventure as mother rattlesnake teaches her little ones about the “rules.”

Written in rhyme this picture book teaches children fun facts about the misunderstood rattlesnake. It also includes a curriculum guide at the end with more fascinating fact, rattlesnake mysteries, myths vs fact, words to learn and other activities. Rattlesnake Rules is a complete learning tool and is brightly illustrated for even more added fun.

— Sandie Lee
Imagination-Cafe

5 stars

Have you ever seen a rattlesnake? Have you ever heard one rattle? Rattlesnakes have gotten a bad reputation over the years, mostly because they are misunderstood. Yes, they do pose a hazard to people, but they are part of God's creation and serve a useful purpose, part of which is eating rats and mice which can carry diseases harmful to humans. Author Conrad J. Storad, a long time resident of the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, helps children learn more about these fascinating creatures by presenting in poetic form what a mother rattlesnake might tell her young ones about rules for hunting, eating, and warning, and also rules for humans to keep safe. The eye-catching illustrations by Nathaniel P. Jensen, which remind me of Disney snakes like Kaa of The Jungle Book and Sir Hiss of Robin Hood, help to bring the book alive. Can you guess what a rattlesnake uses its forked tongue for?

Storad, a journalist, has long been fascinated by the diversity of plants and animals that live in the desert. Among his previous 32 science and nature books are Meerkats, the Arizona Book Publishing Association's "Arizona Best Book of 2008;" Don't Call Me a Pig! (A Javelina Story); Desert Night Shift (A Pack Rat Story); Lizards for Lunch (A Roadrunner's Story); and Don't Ever Cross That Road (An Armadillo Story). The back of Rattlesnake Rules contains several pages of Rattlesnake Fast Facts, Rattlesnake Fun Facts, Rattlesnake Mysteries, Rattlesnake Myths vs. Facts, Words to Learn, and a useful Rattlesnake Rules Curriculum Guide provided by librarian and teacher Jean Kilker with suggested activities that will help parents and teachers reinforce the material in the book. This is a really neat and fun book that should prove to be a good resource in children's science reading.

— Wayne S. Walker
SFC Book Reviews

Readers learn fun facts about rattlesnakes

Whether they live in jungles, oceans, or deserts, all living things have rules — including rattlesnakes. Now readers can eavesdrop on a mother rattlesnake as she instructs her baby snakes on the proper way to hunt, swallow prey, and use their rattles to discourage potential enemies like humans. Along the way, readers learn fun facts about rattlesnakes — including their ability to smell with their tongues and swallow prey in one gulp.

Best known for his picture book Don't Call Me Pig!, which was selected by then-Arizona governor Janet Napolitano as part of her literacy program, science writer Conrad Storad treats his fans to another fun science book for kids that puts the spotlight on the fascinating but frequently misunderstood world of rattlesnakes.

— Michael Jung
Suite101: Science Picture Books for Kids

Fully illustrated with humorous paintings

Rattlesnake Rules is a handy explanatory book for children ages 8-12 teaching all about rattlesnakes. Written by award-winning children's author and science editor Conrad J. Storad, Rattlesnake Rules comes fully illustrated with humorous paintings and also contains a fact list, glossary, and full curriculum guide written by Jean Kilker, a national Board Certified teacher and librarian in Litchfield Park, Arizona. Rattlesnake Rules is an excellent guide for young students to promote healthy understanding and respect for the reality of rattlesnakes and techniques and ways to help keep both rattlesnakes and humans safe.

— James A. Cox
Midwest Book Review 

From a snake's POV

Most people who know me know that I am a book lover who gets true pleasure from reading a book. Most recently, I've begun reading and reviewing more children's books and I've found that I love them just as much. The true perk? Sharing my love of books with my second generation of children.

I received Rattlesnake Rules by Conrad J. Storad and read it to my children a few nights ago. This easy-to-read book relays the rules of dealing with rattlesnakes from the snake's point of view. It's genius! I enjoyed the book so much that I've already told three people about it.

My children were really into it as well. It was obvious they liked the book because while I read they asked clarifying questions or pointed out things they noticed and understood. My two middle children absorbed the information about rattlesnakes and also understood the warning to humans regarding what to do if encountering a rattler.

The book is beautifully illustrated by Nathaniel P. Jensen and one of the best features of it is the glossary of information in the back that includes rattlesnake facts, mysteries, myths and vocabulary words along with a curriculum guide.

Rattlesnake Rules gets a definite two thumbs up.

— Petula Renee Wright
It's a Woman's World 

It's just ssssssssensational!

What a pleasure to read Rattlesnake Rules. It's interesting how you can create a "family portrait" like this in such simple language and be educational along the way. Plus, you and Nathaniel complement each other wonderfully in your art.

It's just ssssssssensational! Keep em comin.

— Jeff Worley
Award winning poet and author of "Happy Hour at the Two Keys Tavern"
Editor of Odyssey Magazine at The University of Kentucky

Perfect book to read and discuss in the homeschool or classroom setting

This is a very well done story in rhyme about the life of the rattlesnake. The book relays a lot of information in a storybook format that makes it very easy for the young reader to learn without trying. Reluctant readers usually gravitate toward vibrant material like this because it is easier to absorb and get to the end without getting stuck on the first couple of pages. The artwork compliments this work perfectly with its bright colors and fun, animated rattlers. In the back of the book are factual sections about rattlesnakes and some suggested curriculum-based activities.

Quill says: This book would be a perfect book to read and discuss in the homeschool or classroom setting!

— Feathered Quill Book Reviews

So where does a rattlesnake P.R. guy come from? 

Prior to working at ASU, Storad worked as a reporter, editor, and general manager for The Barberton Herald newspaper in northeast Ohio. 

In Rattlesnake Rules, Conrad believes he demystifies the world of rattlesnakes and introduces children to such topics as who, when, and what rattlesnakes eat. His goal is to show folks why rattlesnakes have rattles and what it means if you hear one. You'll even learn how the snakes' forked tongues help them survive. Sounds like some good water cooler fodder to impress your co-workers.

— Scott Wykoff
WBAL Radio news
Baltimore, Maryland

Good dose of humor and love

Nathaniel Jensen's delightful illustrations capture the beauty and wonder of nature. His renditions of the animal kingdom are done with a good dose of humor and love, suggesting to the viewer that these creatures are to be cared about and respected for the role they play in our world."

— Joseph Hammer
Director of Product Marketing & Licensing Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Austin, Texas

Dozens of fascinating rattler facts

My wife and I are unabashed fans of Conrad Storad, as are the many children to whom we've given his books. What always stands out is how he varies each story not just in topic but with an approach that's right for the critters we meet. That's never more true than in Rattlesnake Rules. Dozens of fascinating rattler facts are woven into this charming tale, but no two-legger will venture too close after reading the rules.

— Ed Sylvester
Science & Medical Writer Professor
Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication

Kids will love the way Conrad entertainingly explains the nature of rattlers

Conrad Storad's most recent masterpiece, Rattlesnake Rules!, neatly ties together learning, laughter and love in his tale of a mother and her snakelings. Kids will love the way Conrad entertainingly explains the nature of rattlers in his fun-filled, knowledge-packed story! In addition to being a great read, Rattlesnake Rules! is truly a useful tool for those seeking to learn about the lives of rattlesnakes. As with all of Conrad's previous titles, parents will enjoy reading this to their children, as much as kids will enjoy hearing it or reading it themselves! Rattlesnake Rules will surely bring a smile to any reader's face."

— Michael Moorehead
Author of The Student From Zombie Island: Conquering the Rumor Monster

A must for any classroom

Conrad Storad does it again. He continues to bridge the wonder and curiosity of being a child with the importance of education. The author is equally engaging and entertaining as a guest on my radio show. Rattlesnake Rules is a must for any classroom and an enjoyable book to share with my own young children. Storad's latest will join his other books in our family collection like Don't Call Me Pig, Desert Night Shift and Lizards for Lunch. As an advocate for Arizona, and more importantly as a typical parent, I promise that you will love Rattlesnake Rules. Coil up and enjoy!

— Dave Pratt
Author of Dave Pratt: Behind the Mic, 30 Years in Radio

Provides children with essential lessons about rattlesnakes

As a mother of five—who happens to live in rattlesnake territory—it's important for me to teach my children to respect the world around them. What better resource for young children than Conrad Storad's latest picture book, Rattlesnake Rules? Rattlesnake Rules provides children with essential lessons about rattlesnakes and their habitat in a fun and engaging way. And Nathaniel Jensen's illustrations are some of the most vibrant I've ever seen! 

Because we do encounter rattlesnakes, literally in our own backyard, my kids need to be aware of how these fascinating but potentially deadly creatures behave. From a very young age, they also need to know how to react appropriately if they see one, and I appreciate Conrad Storad's efforts to lay out the ground rules and provide instruction in a nonthreatening way. To stay safe at our house, we have to review the rattlesnake rules every day!

— Jennifer S. Christensen
Utah Public Radio/Deseret News correspondent

Highly entertaining and educational

Conrad J. Storad's newest book, Rattlesnake Rules, is a highly entertaining and educational window into the world of the much maligned snakes. This book can help change that, for much of our fear about these reptiles has arisen from our ignorance about them. The illustrations by Nathan P. Jensen will bring alive the story for young readers and for the adults fortunate enough to read this book to them. I believe children, parents, teachers, and librarians will agree that Conrad, who has a long list of popular educational children's books to his credit, has scored a home run with Rattlesnake Rules.

— Paul M. Howey

Why should an armadillo NEVER cross a road?

Because he may never get to the other side! In this delightful book, a teacher armadillo tells his class about their prehistoric ancestor—a glyptodont weighing nearly two tons. He describes where armadillos live, how they spend their time, and what they like to eat for lunch. And he cautions them about the dangers of crossing the road. But one student in a red baseball cap isn't listening—or is he? The book features an armadillo fact section, and a Words to Learn glossary. Don't Ever Cross That Road! is packed with information. Conrad J. Storad's musical verse and Nathaniel P. Jensen's charming pictures make this book a special treat for every young reader.

— Amazon.com on Don’t Ever Cross That Road!: An Armadillo Story

Absolutely delightful...

Don't EVER Cross That Road! is a sweet story you won't mind sharing with your child again and again. The illustrations are first rate. Each page has its own color palate as the story progresses from evening to dawn (armadillos are nocturnal, after all!). My three year old has a new best friend! The publishers also did a great job on the printing. The images are crisp. The colors jump out at you. This is a great book for kids or for adults who are collectors of picture books.

— Joseph H. Tait
Austin, Texas

Great story. Great illustrations...

Not only is this delightful book instructional but it is also great fun for both children and adults. Kids really respond to the illustrations which animate the story. Definitely a keeper—one you will want to read and look at over and over.

— A reader from Austin, Texas

A wonderful science lesson…

This book by the author of Don't Call Me Pig! (A Javelina Story) and Lizards for Lunch (A Roadrunner's Tale) is a wonderful blend of whimsical rhyme and natural history lesson. Young readers (or listeners) will love following the antics of a red-capped armadillo student as his teacher armadillo lectures a restless class all about their history, biology, habitat, and most importantly, the dangers of crossing the road! Bringing the words to life are Nathaniel Jensen's delightful illustrations—the expressions on the little armadillo's faces are priceless.

— Southwest Book Girl
Phoenix, Arizona

Author's comments on Lizards for Lunch:

The deserts of the American Southwest are home to some of the most unique and interesting creatures and plants found on Planet Earth. The feisty little Roadrunner is one of those creatures. Forget the ostrich-looking bird that many people grew up watching on Saturday morning cartoons. That's not a Roadrunner. About the size of a skinny chicken, real Roadrunners are clever creatures that are not afraid to tangle with rattlesnakes, tarantulas, scorpions, or any of the many species of lizards found in the desert. My book gives you the real scoop on this fascinating bird. I tell you the story straight, but in rhyme, to make if fun for everyone. In the back of the book, parents will find two pages of natural history facts about the Roadrunner. Read those pages and you'll become a Roadrunner expert in five minutes. Artists Beth Neely and Don Rantz bring my words to life with their brightly colored and wonderfully detailed illustrations. Their water color paintings provide readers a true feel for the beauty of Arizona's portion of the Sonoran Desert. Together, Beth, Don, and I have tried our best to provide children and parents with a visual feast as well as an ample supply of brain food. Enjoy!

— Conrad J. Storad, Author

From Best of Southwest Children's Literature:

This is a wonderful informational book about both the javelina and the Sonoran Desert. Conrad J. Storad is able to integrate humor and information within rhyming text. The book describes the javelina's habitat as well as their favorite foods, habits, and social interaction. In the back of the book a detailed information page provides specific details about these hairy, pig-like animals.

The illustrators, Beth Neely and Don Rantz, did a wonderful job of bringing Storad's text to life. They use watercolors enhanced with pen and ink to create illustrations that are animated, humorous, colorful, and detailed. The illustrations are mainly double spread and realistic with some expressionistic art designed to enhance the text. This book is great to read aloud with an entire class or with individual students.

— Southwest Children's Literature on Don’t Call Me Pig!: A Javelina Story

Author's comments:

Arizona's portion of the Sonoran Desert is home to some of Planet Earth's most unique and sometimes bizarre creatures. The sharp-toothed, bristly haired javelina is just one of them. It's also one of the most misidentified creatures in the desert. It is not a wild pig! Stop calling it a pig! Javelinas are not even related to pigs, unless you go back more than 60 million years. Javelinas are peccaries. Pigs came to North America with the Spanish explorers in the 1500s. Javelinas have their own story. My book gives children the straight scoop, in rhyme. Older readers (and parents) will find the last two pages chock full of javelina facts and natural history. While the kids are running around the house or classroom screaming "Don't Call Me Pig!" parents and teachers can spend five minutes to become experts on these interesting creatures. Artists Beth Neely and Don Rantz bring my words to life with their richly colored, superbly detailed, and whimsical illustrations. One thing is certain, after you read this book, you will never, ever refer to a javelina as a pig again. Enjoy!

— Conrad J. Storad, Author

A valuable primary classroom resource...

As a teacher of second and third graders I am constantly looking for resources that my students can use while researching science and social studies topics. One of our course of study requirements is to study animals and their habitats. Since we live in Ohio, it is difficult to find information about the desert. Little Lords of the Desert provides accurate information written at an appropriate reading level. My students also gain information from the realistic drawings of the animals. This is a valuable resource that should be a part of every primary classroom library.

— Elementary school teacher from Tallmadge, Ohio
Amazon.com

Author's comments:

Little Lords of the Desert is a coloring/learning book that describes 26 insects and spiders that make their home in southwestern deserts. The book features high-quality illustrations of each creature along with informative text. The book is bound like an artist's notepad and printed on recycled paper. My partner on this and three other coloring/learning books is illustrator Donna S. Atwood. She is an award-winning artist and graphic designer with over 25 years of professional experience. Atwood has owned her own design studio for more than 20 years. Her work has won dozens of design awards. She also illustrated and published Rhode Island A to Z, a coloring/learning book all about our nation's 13th state.

— Conrad J. Storad, Author

From School Library Journal:

Written for pre-teens, teens, and young adults. The books is focused on the biological effects of the HIV virus on the human immune system, Storad offers a detailed scientific perspective on the disease that one does not find in other books on the subject. Whereas most titles tend to view the disease as more of a social problem and concentrate on how it can be combated and prevented, this one presents an in-depth study of the characteristics of the virus and how it invades and destroys the immune system. The author begins with a brief history of the AIDS epidemic, tracing its beginnings in the 1980s through 1995 statistics. The next few chapters explore the virus, how the disease is transmitted, and how it attacks the immune system. Effective but rather gruesome photographs show the outward physical effects of AIDS. There are also numerous color diagrams that outline the structure and characteristics of the HIV virus. The book concludes with a discussion of the different methods of preventing the spread of AIDS and a look at the latest developments in treatments and the search for a cure. The most recent information Storad includes on these developments is from 1997, and he does a good job of explaining technical facts clearly and concisely. A useful update.

— Edward Sullivan, New York Public Library, Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc. on Inside AIDS: HIV Attacks the Immune System

From The Horn Book Guide:

Inside AIDS provides a thorough explanation of HIV and AIDS for younger readers.

— The Horn Book Guide

Author's comments:

Life is an unending series of choices, some easy, some quite difficult. Young people need to arm themselves with as much information and knowledge as they can hold...then learn how to choose wisely. In the end, each of us is responsible for the choices we make. HIV, the human immunodeficiency virus that causes AIDS, does not discriminate. It kills everyone it infects, some quickly, some only after many years of suffering. This book is the result of almost five years worth of research, writing, and rewriting. I reviewed thousands of pages of scientific research and talked with many dedicated medical researchers. The information is as up to date as I could make it before the book went to press in December 1997. Research continues around the world. But the road to an effective treatment or cure for AIDS still looms long into the future. Each of us needs to think about the choices we have. Each of us has the power to prevent HIV from infecting us or the ones we love.

— Conrad J. Storad, Author

Much more than a coloring book...

I thought I knew a lot about the natural history of the Sonoran Desert until I read this book. As a longtime former Arizona resident I spent many hundreds of hours hiking the Sonoran Desert backcountry, often with the author himself. There's not much text in this book, but Storad has packed it with interesting facts. And Donna Atwood's illustrations are both technically accurate and artistically pleasing. I wish they made coloring books like this when I was a kid.

— Steve Koppes, Science Writer, University of Chicago on Sonoran Desert A to Z Coloring/Learning Book, Amazon.com

Teachers, put this book to work in your classrooms...

I love this book! The descriptions are really good, and the illustrations are incredible. My daughter is drawn to its pictures and we're able to use it like flashcards to identify animals here in the Southwest. To call it a coloring book is an injustice. Teachers should use this book in their classroom.

— Bill Fessler, Publisher
Phoenix, Arizona

Author's comments:

Sonoran Desert A to Z is a coloring/learning book of 26 plants and animals that make their home in the Sonoran Desert. The book features high-quality illustrations of each plant and animal along with informative text. It can be used as a beautiful coloring book, a useful classroom learning tool for young readers. or as an inexpensive field guide for desert explorers. The book is bound like an artist's notepad and printed on recycled paper. 

In 1999, Sonoran Desert A to Z won the Glyph Award from the Arizona Book Publisher's Association as "Best book from new Arizona publisher."

— Conrad J. Storad, Author

From School Library Journal:

Clear full-color photos on each page and crisply informative texts with simple sentences are the signatures of Tarantulas and other titles in Lerner Publications' Early Bird Nature Book series. All of the books include a section for adults on related activities.…The high “ick-factor” of these hairy arachnids creates a heavy demand for titles, and a previous dearth of material makes a new book helpful indeed. Attractive, informative, and useful.

— Patricia Manning
Eastchester Public Library, New York on Tarantulas

From The Parent Council:

Tarantulas and other titles in the Early Bird Nature Book series are sturdy, informative chapter books. They are good reference books for young readers. Sharp photographs and large easy to read text make these books super kid-friendly.

— The Parent Council

From School Library Journal:

The information in Storad's books is carefully and logically organized.

— School Library Journal on Scorpions

From Appraisal:

The titles in the Early Bird Nature Book series are beautiful and useful resources for students interested in animals and unusual plants. Adults and children will find much interesting information about these appealing creatures here….Scorpions, Tarantulas, Saguaro Cactus, and other titles in the series are thorough, well-written, and extremely interactive.

— Appraisal

Outstanding book for young readers...

I am a third-grade teacher who ordered this book for my class. I live in the warm climate of Morocco, where dangerous scorpions are very common. My kids are absolutely fascinated by this book, and it is one of the most popular books in my class. Scorpions is one of the best animal books for children that I've ever seen, as are all the other books in Lerner Publications' Early Bird Nature Book series. In 48 pages, there are 42 outstanding, full-color photographs. The enlarged text is perfect both for reading to a child, or for a child to read to himself. The language and book design are perfect for a child between Grades 2 and 4, but quite interesting even for me, an adult! I highly recommend this book for your child. It will give you hours of fascination reading together. It would also be an excellent edition to any school library. I purchased the library-bound edition, which is both attractive and tough.

— A teacher and reader from Marrakesh, Morocco
Amazon.com

Author's comments:

Scorpions rule the desert night. Complete with a venomous stinger-tipped tail and powerful pincers, scorpions love to feast on insects and other members of their own kind. Dangerous? They can be. A bit of common sense allows humans to coexist with these ancient creatures, as they have for thousands of years. Learn more about an amazing arachnid that has crawled the Earth in all kinds of habitats for millions of years. Use my book as brain food. These creatures are worthy of respect, not to be feared. Photographer Paula Jansen's images give the reader an up-close and personal look at several species.

— Conrad J. Storad, Author

From School Library Journal:

Written for readers in grades 3-5. Saguaro Cactus is an excellent introductory guide to an amazing plant. The book is inviting in appearance, fun to read, and the information is carefully and logically organized. Starting with a map and a short list of scientific terms, Storad gives a vivid picture of cacti in general, with an emphasis on how they adapt to their seemingly inhospitable environment. The chapters describing the life cycle and longevity of the saguaro are particularly effective. The text is illustrated with clear, full-color photographs. A Notes to Adults section gives tips to parents and teachers about ways to use the book with children.

— Steve Matthews, Foxcroft School, Middleburg, Virginia, Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc., on Saguaro Cactus

Youngsters love to have fun while they learn

Arizona is a place that lives by its myths and legends. Our rivers are drier and our temperatures are higher; our canyons are grander and our deserts are sandier; our cactus is stickier and our skunks are ickier; our burros are lazier and our tales are crazier. We are truly a land of anomalies and tamales.

Who says learning about Arizona can't be bushels of fun? Arizona: WOWW is guaranteed to entertain and educate at the same time. You'll find mind-challenging but fun games and crossword puzzles, coloring pages, crafts and all kinds of amazing little facts.

You'll even find Dutch oven recipes for biscuits, cobbler and green-chili cornbread. You'll also find recipes for tostadas, enchiladas, salsa and rice pudding.

There's corny humor too, such as “What kind of cheese is not yours?” Nacho cheese of course. Congratulations if you got it right.

In the midst of all these fun games and wacky tales there's a whole lot of good factual information in Arizona: WOWW. Just like Mary Poppins said, “A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down.”

Having been an educator since 1961 I've always believed teachers should always attempt to find humorous teaching tools to hold the attention of their youngsters. I attribute much of my success as a teacher to using humor. I continue to receive letters from former students, now in their 40s and 50s who say they've forgotten most of the serious history of Arizona but remember fondly the wacky tales they heard so many years ago. Youngsters love to have fun while they learn and by having fun they retain what they learned.

— Review by Marshall Trimble, Official Arizona State Historian
on Arizona Way Out West & Wacky
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