The Reading Warehouse

"An inspiring, enjoyable story that will spark life-long connections between young children and national parks. Just the type of reading fun needed to encourage outdoor exploration and play in parks." - Fran P. Mainella, 16th Director of the U.S. National Park Service & US Play Coalition Co-Chair

"A delightfully illustrated tour of the amazing variety of fun and fascinating things that your child can discover in America's national park system." - David Harmon, Executive Director, George Wright Society

Book Description

Follow Rosy Ralph as he sets off on an adventure to visit the spectacular U.S. National Parks. Children who hear the book may want go to a national park on their next vacation to see the things described in the book, which are all true. Rosy Ralph visits parks like Yellowstone, Yosemite, Acadia, Denali, Grand Canyon, and Great Smoky Mountains to see some of their many wonders. These include new species recently discovered, glowing mushrooms, howling wolves, thunderous sea caves, and the "new" highest mountain in the country. The book also brings some attention to lesser known parks, such as Congaree, Biscayne, and the Gates of the Artic, where children can find excitement in seeing rare and unusual sights.

This picture book features stunning illustrations by Lucy Elliot showing the parks and their wonders. These will capture a child's attention and get them interested in parks. The book is intended for young children, and it makes a great educational and fun bedtime story. Rosy Ralph Visits His National Parks is an ideal book to serve as a gift prior to a trip to the national parks, or as a souvenir book for a child from a national park. Also, it makes a great holiday or birthday gift for most children, particularly since the national parks are celebrating their 100 year anniversary in 2016.

The book's author is Jeffrey C. Hallo, Ph.D., who is an Associate Professor at Clemson University. His research and teaching are focused on parks and other protected areas. He has done work in a number of national parks, from Denali in Alaska to Congaree in South Carolina. Jeff lives in Central, SC with his wife Lisa and their three young children Cooper, Ashlyn, and Bridger.

The author and the book's goal is to inspire in young children a sense of wonder, ownership, and stewardship about national parks.