Travel News & Updates

Picture of the Mushroom Finder book next to a mushroom near a tree in the grass

Exciting News: Two New Books Join the Nature Study Guides Finder Series

Megan Wells October 15, 2024 0 AdventureKEEN, Backpacking, Be Well. Be Outdoors., Birds, Family Activities, Field Guide, for families, for home lessons, foraging, Hiking, Mushrooms, Nature, Outdoor Activities, Rocky Mountains, Travel News & Updates, Wildlife

The Nature Study Guides Finder series is a timeless favorite in the outdoors world. These guides have been loved by nature fans for ages, offering valuable insights and tips for identifying various plants and animals. With a recent update to the look, the series now carries a fresh, modern design and introduces two new titles—Mushroom Finder and Bird Nest Finder. There are also five titles in the series that have recently received updates with new editions.

New Titles

New to the series is Mushroom Finder, written by Jacob Kalichman, an expert field mycologist known for his extensive work on North American fungi. This pocket-size guide is perfect for foragers and outdoors enthusiasts looking to identify mushrooms in their natural habitats. Jacob’s expertise ensures readers get accurate and reliable information, enhancing their foraging adventures. The book includes stunning illustrations from Roo Vandegrift, who currently works as the Plant Pathologist at the USDA Plant Inspection Station. Roo’s detailed art captures each mushroom’s unique traits, making identification easier and more fun.

Bird Nest Finder is another exciting addition, written and illustrated by Dorcas S. Miller, a seasoned author within the Finder series. Dorcas has previously written Track Finder, Scat Finder, Winter Weed Finder, Berry Finder, and Constellation Finder, which have sold over half a million copies. Bird Nest Finder focuses on aboveground nests in Eastern North America, providing essential information for bird-watchers and nature lovers. The author’s deep knowledge and detailed illustrations make this guide a valuable resource for anyone interested in the nesting behaviors of birds.

The Bird Nest Finder book next to a bird nest in the grass

Revived Classics

Along with the new books, five previously out-of-print books are back on the shelves. These revived classics include:

Bird Finder (originally published in 1990) by Roger J. Lederer—an essential guide for bird-watchers, with detailed descriptions and illustrations of various bird species
Pacific Coast Bird Finder (1977) by Roger J. Lederer—identifies common and noteworthy birds of California, Oregon, and Washington
Desert Tree Finder (1974) by May Theilgaard Watts—a must-have for desert explorers, providing detailed information on identifying trees and tree-like cacti of the desert southwest
Pacific Coast Mammal Finder (1987) by Ron Russo—identifies mammals by sight, as well as by their animal tracks, burrows, nests, scat, scratch or chew marks, and skulls/jaws; great for wildlife enthusiasts
Pacific Coast Fish Finder (1990) by Ron Russo—identifies marine fish of the Pacific Coast; ideal for anglers and nature lovers

Not only did this classic series get a new, updated look, but it also expanded its collection, solidifying its status as a go-to resource for outdoors enthusiasts, nature lovers, and foragers. Whether readers are experienced naturalists or budding explorers, the Nature Study Guides Finder series has something for everyone. Discover the beauty and intricacies of the natural world with these expertly crafted guides.

Great for the Holidays

Picture of the Finders series spread out on a table with green garland around them

The Nature Study Guides Finder series is the perfect gift for the holiday season. These pocket-size guides are packed with expert content in simple form, making them ideal for anyone who loves the great outdoors or is just beginning to develop an interest in nature. They’re designed to be portable, so adventurers can easily take them on outings and identify the wonders they come across. These books make thoughtful gifts that spark curiosity and deepen appreciation for the natural world, making them perfect as stocking stuffers or special gifts under the tree.

The Finders Series Best Features and Secrets of Success

Megan Wells September 6, 2024 1 AdventureKEEN, Be Well. Be Outdoors., birding, Flowers, for families, foraging, Hiking, Nature, Outdoor Activities, Outdoor Pursuits, Outdoor Skills, Rocky Mountains, science, Travel News & Updates, Upcoming

The Nature Study Guides Finders series has helped nature enthusiasts identify plants, trees, birds, mammals, and other organisms for more than five decades.

These gems are getting some upgrades this October, including updates to range maps, scientific names and families, icons, and design. To learn more, read the previous blog Timeless Treasures: The Everlasting Appeal of Nature Study Guides Finders Books. The Finders are known for three distinct features: size, dichotomous keys, and longevity—partially due to their affordable price point. These components contribute to the great success of this series over the years.

SIZE MATTERS

When out on the trails, the amount, weight, and size of items brought along matters significantly to any hiker or outdoors enthusiast. Carrying heavy or bulky items can quickly become cumbersome and detract from the enjoyment of the journey. This is why one of the greatest characteristics of the titles in the Finders series is their compact, lightweight design. These booklets measure only 4×6 inches. Many users report that they can easily slip them into their jacket or pants pockets before exploring the trails. Additionally, they fit perfectly into the outer pockets of backpacks. The glossy covers also contribute to the ease of quick retrieval, making them a practical, convenient choice for anyone looking to travel light while staying prepared.

THE KEYS ARE KEY

Each book is organized using a dichotomous key, consisting of a series of statements or questions, each offering two distinct choices. These choices lead the user down different paths, depending on the characteristics of the organism being identified. By systematically narrowing down these choices, readers can eventually arrive at the correct identification of the organism. Educators and naturalists appreciate the guides for their organization, which encourages examining the structure and families of plants. The Finders for birds and mammals are organized by taxonomy (classification via characteristics).

Inside page from Winter Tree Finder by May T. Watts

Inside page from Winter Tree Finder by May Theilgaard Watts and Tom Watts

THEY’RE REASONABLY PRICED

The first book in the Finders series, Tree Finder, was published in 1939 by May Theilgaard Watts, followed by her Flower Finder in 1955. Many consumers eventually replace their original copies because of wear and tear from use (some have enjoyed them for over 40 years!). The 1939 edition of Tree Finder was initially priced at a modest 25 cents, and for many years, it was priced at just $5.95. As the series continues to thrive, new editions are set to be released at the accessible price of $7.95. This practical price point has been integral to the series’ ongoing success, ensuring that it remains a beloved resource for both seasoned naturalists and budding nature lovers alike—in 2024 and beyond.

old copy of Tree Finder from 1939 for 25 cents.

NEW EDITIONS RELEASING IN 2024/25

The new editions for 12 of the Finders will be available on October 8th wherever books are sold. These editions are eagerly anticipated, as they feature a cohesive new look that adds a nostalgic touch to their appearance. With their attractive design, it will be tempting for outdoors enthusiasts to purchase all of these books. Additionally, there will be bundles available that are grouped by region or subject matter, providing buyers with convenient options to expand their collections. The rest of the Finders will be released in 2025, and they will also receive similar visually appealing updates to ensure continuity in the series. Keep an eye out for these exciting releases!

A NOD TO SUSTAINABILITY

Beyond the practical benefits, the Nature Study Guides Finders series also aligns with the ethos of sustainability—a core value for many nature enthusiasts and environmentalists. The compact size and durable quality of the guides ensure minimal waste, and their longevity means fewer replacements over time. Investing in these guides is not just a step toward becoming a better naturalist, but it’s also a step towards a greener planet.

Timeless Treasures: The Everlasting Appeal of Nature Study Guides Finders Books

Megan Wells June 14, 2024 1 Backpacking, Be Well. Be Outdoors., birding, Birds, Hiking, mushrooming, Mushrooms, Nature, Outdoor Pursuits, Outdoor Skills, science, Travel News & Updates, Wildlife

Discover why these guidebooks have become staples that continue to thrive in their popularity with nature lovers.

Environmental Education: The History of Nature Study Guides

May Theilgaard Watts, the daughter of a landscape gardener, attended the University of Chicago for botany and ecology (graduating in 1918) and later attended the Art Institute of Chicago. May became involved with a group that worked on preserving the natural landscape in the Midwest. In the 1940s, she became a full-time naturalist at the Morton Arboretum, where she developed an education program that included classes in gardening, nature literature, art, botany, ecology, creative writing, and geology.

In this role, she created the first Nature Study Guides for her students, who were, at first, teachers. The classes were such a big success that they were requested by Girl Scout leaders, homemakers, and families. The groups continued to grow; soon, doctors, dentists, botany professors, nursery workers, farmers, nurses, principals, and Boy Scouts were in attendance.

Today, these guides also have a wide range of audiences, including professionals, academics, hobbyists, and children. The guides have remained invaluable resources for decades.

Staying Relevant: How These Guides Adapt to Changing Environments

Nature Study Guides have been a favorite resource for more than 60 years and continue to be revised and updated. The most recent changes include updates to the range maps. The hardiness zones have also been adjusted due to climate change, and these details offer more accuracy. The scientific names and families of particular species have also been corrected, and new ones have been added.

The most noticeable recent change is the look; however, they remain recognizable as the classic guides that people have come to trust. While the books cover different regions, they are all part of the series, most using dichotomous keys. Along with the outside look, the icons inside have been tweaked for easier recognition.

backpack showing the size of the Mushroom Finder and a picture of the new cover of the Winter Tree Finder.

Testimonials: Lasting Stories of Connections with Nature

“This Nature Study Series is hard to beat for the person wishing to know plants and understand the differences in physical characteristics. All this comes at a very reasonable cost.”

“I like the whole series of these books. They use deduction to figure out what you’re looking at— be it flower, tree, or animal.”

“I love these mini reference books! They take up very little space on the shelf and are lightweight enough to throw in a day pack, which is much easier than trying to find data or see a screen on a smartphone while you’re out hiking or picnicking.”

Guidebook Gems: Highlighting the Most Popular Editions

Tree Finder by May Theilgaard Watts is the most popular book in the series. People pass it down from generation to generation or purchase it for their kids and grandkids. The range of users is diverse. Below are a few consumer reviews to highlight the trusted guide.

“Even the pros use this book. I’m a certified arborist with 19 years in the green industry. This was one of the books I used to lock down my tree ID skills. I have also used this book to teach future arborists, as well as Boy Scouts and Scout leaders.”

“I had one of these 50 years ago when I studied in elementary school and have always liked it. It makes identifying trees fun!”

“As a certified forester, this is exactly the book we used at West Virginia University for ‘keying’ trees. It’s a great beginner’s book for tree identification. I’d highly recommend it.”

“I first read this in high school for my leaf collection project. I have since purchased this book for my children. I want them to be able to identify trees they ask about on our hikes. It is a wonderful book for all ages.”

Additional Nature Education: New Books by Expert Authors

While the Nature Study Guide series has many classics, two new books are being added this October. Bird Nest Finder, by Dorcas Miller, helps readers identify more than 70 species of birds and their nests. Dorcas is a well-known expert and author of five other guides in the series. Similar to other books in the group, it uses a dichotomous key to help identify aboveground nests by answering questions about their type, size, material, and location.

Another new book in the series is Mushroom Finder. This guidebook provides a dichotomous key to identify fungi by answering questions about the location; appearance; or shape, such as the cap, spores, and stem. The step-by-step instructions can help readers identify more than 300 types of mushrooms that are at least 5mm tall or wide, have tangible thickness, and are fresh. The author is Jacob Kalichman, an expert in his field and a USDA plant pathologist.

Be sure to check out more information on this series at http://naturestudy.com/

blackwaters film Dudley Edmondson, film director Chad Brown, and Molly Merkle

‘Blackwaters’ Film Showing in Atlanta

Travis Bryant October 5, 2023 0 AdventureKEEN, Dudley Edmundson, Travel News & Updates

This past weekend, our publisher, Molly Merkle, made the trip to Atlanta, GA, to attend the screening of the new outdoor adventure film Blackwaters.

Blackwaters follows five black outdoorsmen of diverse backgrounds into Gates of the Arctic National Park. The film captures their outdoor adventures and conversations about life’s experiences and challenges as black men.

While at the September 30th showing, Molly had the chance to meet with AdventureKEEN author and wildlife photographer Dudley Edmondson and chat with other film members. Dudley was part of the film crew and the film’s senior editor. All of the cast members attended the event and participated in a moderated discussion.

The Blackwaters film crew is currently on tour with their movie. You can find other showings on their site. We recommend catching a viewing and participating in the conversation if you’re able.

blackwaters crew panel discussion — *Blackwaters* crew on stage at Atlanta screening

Dudley Edmondson and Molly Merkle in conversation with cast member Jahmicah Dawes, president of Slim Pickins Outfitters in Central Texas.

Welcome Our New Warehouse Manager

Travis Bryant August 16, 2023 0 AdventureKEEN, Company News, Travel News & Updates

It’s the people who make AdventureKEEN exciting and fun, no matter which department they’re working in or what part of the country they call home. Get to know the members of AdventureKEEN through their day-to-day jobs, as well as their favorite things to pack for a hike.

We want to introduce Will Bowlin as we welcome him to the AdventureKEEN team.

Will joined us in June and has been directing shipping and logistics for the Birmingham, AL warehouse. If you have called in with a packing or website shipping question, Will has been part of the answer. Will’s background in warehousing, shipping, and logistics for the U.S. Army, along with his systems skills and organization, will be a great asset to the warehouse team.

“Now that we have completed a full inventory and I have learned the ins and outs of managing this type of warehouse, I am excited to use my years of experience as a Warehouse Manager in the Army, to implement new strategies and procedures that will increase productivity within this organization,” said Will.

While we couldn’t find a time when Will was sitting down, but we followed him around the warehouse for a minute and asked him the ever important question for an AdventureKEEN team member… ‘what’s always in your pack when going for a weekend hike?’

He replied with a solid list of dependable hiking staples that would make sure every hiker is prepared for an overnight outing.

Water
Food
Compass or GPS
Strobe light
Flashlight or Headlamp
Knife/utility tool
550 cord
First aid kit

It’s this kind of planning and dependability that you can count on when you order from AdventureKEEN. We are so glad Will has joined the AdventureKEEN family!

Meet Molly Merkle – AdventureKEEN Publisher

AdventureKEEN February 14, 2023 2 Company News, Travel News & Updates

Meeting authors is one of Merkle’s favorite responsibilities as publisher.

Molly Merkle, Publisher, Suzanne Welander, author, and Trenton Foston, Marketing, all pose for a photo during a meeting in Atlanta, GA.

Molly met with author and nature photographer Stan Tekiela in Minnesota.

Molly, Brett Ortler, Acquisitions Editor, and Cary J. Griffith, author of the Sam Rivers thriller series, met in Minnesota during a book signing.

Bob Sehlinger, co-founder of AdventureKEEN and publisher of The Unofficial Guides, said, “For years, we’ve counted on Molly’s vision for growth, addressing the needs of our readers, and nurturing the extraordinary people who work for the company. Through the hardships and challenges that are a fact of life in entrepreneurial publishing, Molly has been our rock: mission-oriented and unflappable. She has also been our leader, our head of house, in all except title. Now she deservedly wears the mantle of publisher.”

Merkle started her career with the company more than 30 years ago and has excelled at cultivating relationships and developing books that are a good match for the company’s editorial and sales capabilities. “We are proud to be an indie press in mutuality with indie book and specialty retailers who support our program,” Merkle said.

While Merkle retains COO responsibilities for development of the publishing program and heading up the company’s leadership team, she will focus on AdventureKEEN’s partnerships and author support through her role as publisher. It’s a role she has already proven fit for.

“We expect that Molly will continue her organizational excellence as our publisher, just as she mastered every position that she held prior. The company is thriving as readers discover the health benefits of engaging with nature, and she’s a big part of that success,” said Richard Hunt, president and co-founder of AdventureKEEN.

Merkle’s work to build a collaborative, nimble, and diverse workforce in support of the growing enterprise is essential for AdventureKEEN’s future. “It’s a terrific privilege to work with this team we have built, and I’m looking forward to the good work we can continue to do at the intersection of the book publishing, conservation, and outdoor recreation industries,” Merkle said. “We see real value in our publishing program and are passionate about the books we publish and messages we are putting out into the world.”

About AdventureKEEN: The company’s founding dates back more than 40 years, guided then and now by a love of being in the woods and on the water, by a passion for reading and books, and by the sense of wonder and discovery made possible by spending time recreating outdoors in beautiful places. AdventureKEEN’s mission is to share that wonder and fun with its readers, especially with those who haven’t yet experienced all the physical and mental health benefits that nature and outdoor activity can bring. In addition, AdventureKEEN strives to teach about recreating responsibly so that the natural resources and habitats we all cherish and rely on will be available for future generations.

AdventureKEEN is excited to share this announcement and to improve how we serve our authors, accounts, and readers. Join us as we celebrate and look down the trail to what lies ahead.

Young boy wears a harness while climbing up the Kalahari Climbing Wall

Take a Family Road Trip to Wisconsin Dells

Ryan Jacobson September 10, 2019 0 Travel News & Updates, Wisconsin

You might think the start of a new school year is less than ideal for a family road trip. At our house, that first week creates one stressed out family. So when the weekend arrives, we should lock the doors, shut off the lights, and hide under the covers. We do the opposite. We load the car with luggage, fill the tank with gas, and head out of town. Our destination of choice: Wisconsin Dells.

From our home, it’s about a five-hour trip, so we arrive at our resort of choice, the Kalahari, just in time to put the kids to bed. Saturday morning, though, is all about the resort’s famous indoor waterpark: the largest in Wisconsin—and the main attraction on this family road trip. There are slides at every turn, not to mention different play areas for all ages, including a wave pool. (For those who wish to relax, there’s a wonderful lazy river and plenty of hot tubs.)

This year, we discovered the new Underwater DIVR—the first underwater virtual reality experience in the country. It’s essentially snorkeling in a swimming pool while a VR headset shows you the depths of an ocean. I wish the footage had been more life-like, but it was a very cool experience at a surprisingly low cost.

That sounds like a lot of amazing stuff, and it is. But if the Wisconsin Dells early-September weather cooperates, we get all of that times two—because the Kalahari also has an outdoor waterpark!

Of course, the allure of two waterparks can only distract the children for so long on our family road trip. Late afternoon and evening are all about “Tom Foolery’s Adventure Park.” The resort’s giant arcade area includes go-carts, a bowling alley, a climbing wall, and even a Ferris wheel.

We’ve found that the arcade eats money pretty fast. So instead, we now opt to buy the boys unlimited wristband passes. While a wristband doesn’t include the arcade games, it provides endless access to Wisconsin Dells fun: mini-golf, laser tag, a 3-D interactive ride/video game (our oldest boy’s favorite), a ropes course—now with a brand new zip line—and more.

For your family road trip menu, you don’t have to venture away from the resort for food, although you’ll pay a premium if you eat under their roof. To save a little money, there are some familiar restaurant options (fast food and otherwise) within walking distance. Local favorite Moosejaw Pizza & Dells Brewing Company is just a short drive away. My family prefers to travel across town to our top Wisconsin Dells eatery: Paul Bunyan’s Cook Shanty.

Wisconsin Day Trips by Theme front cover

It’s a whirlwind trip, and we wonder every year whether we should do it again. Yet every year, we go and have the time of our lives. It’s proof that there’s never a bad time for a family road trip, and Wisconsin Dells is a perfect destination. To plan your next trip, check out Wisconsin Day Trips by Theme.

Take Part in National Read a Book Day!

Ryan Jacobson September 6, 2019 0 Travel News & Updates

The end of the work week is reason enough to celebrate, but today is also National Read a Book Day. People across the country are encouraged to shut off the television, put away the mobile devices, and curl up with a good book. (As luck would have it, today is also National Lazy Mom’s Day—perfect!) At AdventureKEEN, we are best known as an outdoor publisher of practical guides for everything from hiking to bird watching. But we also have a tremendous selection of books perfect for a quiet evening at home.

If you enjoy the mystery/thriller genre, Wolves by award-winning author Cary J. Griffith is the title for you. A wildlife biologist and special agent for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service returns to his hometown to investigate the mysterious death of his estranged father. Griffith spins an incredible story of suspense, worthy of National Read a Book Day.

For those who enjoy a little more horror in their thrillers, Shadows in the Asylum by D.A. Stern is an unexpected find from an outdoor publisher. It’s akin to a “found footage” film (a la The Blair Witch Project) in book form. The novel collects letters, notes, and other correspondences within the Kriegmoor Psychiatric Institute that blend into a bizarre story of insanity and blur the line between fact and fiction.

Ole and Lena A Stud and a Hot Dish front cover

On the lighter side, humor fans will appreciate Ole & Lena: A Stud and a Hot Dish by Bruce Danielson and Ann Berg. This collection of jokes and photographs finds Ole and Lena getting mixed up about everything from winter activities to distant relatives. To fill your National Read a Book Day with laughs, this option is nothing short of hilarious!

Mountain Bike! and Kayak book covers by William Nealy

As an outdoor publisher, we have plenty of titles about cycling and paddling, including Mountain Bike! and Kayak: The New Frontier. William Nealy’s cartoon illustrations intertwine insight with humor and knowledge with humiliation. Along the way, his content shortens the learning curve and allows readers to master advanced techniques in the two outdoor pursuits. The books are part comedy and part “how to” guides.

Of course, many readers might prefer more serious and contemplative reading on National Read a Book Day—like the popular Meditations series. Each book presents a vast selection of inspirational quotes and essays, along with spiritual texts, from celebrated thinkers. Available titles from this outdoor publisher include Meditations of Henry David Thoreau, Meditations of John Muir, Meditations of Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Meditations of Walt Whitman.

With these great options and so many more, you’re bound to find something you love at AdventureKEEN. So read alone, read to your children, or read to your pets—it doesn’t matter what you read or how you read it. The point of National Read a Book Day is to make time to enjoy a book. I intend to do just that, and I hope you choose to do the same.

Regional Guidebooks Are Perfect College Gift Ideas

Ryan Jacobson August 29, 2019 0 Travel News & Updates

It’s always a good time for college gift ideas, right? Chances are pretty good that you know someone who’s heading off to further their education—perhaps even your own child. Whether they are staying close to home or have chosen far-off places to travel, two things are certain: They love to know that you’re thinking of them, and they love to get mail. Give them a little first-semester boost; send them a gift. You don’t have to spend a fortune to impress them, either. A guidebook to their area is both thoughtful and functional, and it’s something they’re sure to appreciate.

Especially for students who are new to a given location, a guidebook ranks among the best college gift ideas. It introduces them to their surroundings and gives them some ideas for things to do that are fun and inexpensive. For example, a student who chose places to travel and/or attend like the University of Minnesota might appreciate getting a copy of Walking Twin Cities by Holly Day and Sherman Wick.

The handy book introduces 35 self-guided tours through parks, historic neighborhoods, and other popular locales in Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Each selected tour includes a detailed walk description, full-color photographs, a map, and tips on popular cafes, restaurants, and hot spots. With literally hundreds of points of interest to be seen in the Twin Cities, students will quickly become acquainted with what the area has to offer.

Along with the Walking series, other great college gift ideas include 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles and Five-Star Trails. For students with more specialized interests, you might try something like Best Tent Camping or even the Ghosthunting series of books.

College students who have lived in their area for more than a couple of years might be looking to expand their explorations. In that case, a book from the Day Trips series might be a perfect choice. A student at the University of North Carolina might find North Carolina Day Trips by Theme by Marla Hardee Milling to be extremely useful.

North Carolina Day Trips by Theme front cover

The guidebook presents hundreds of the state’s most entertaining places to travel—not a bad feature in this best of college gift ideas. Destinations in the book are organized by themes, such as Lighthouses, Festivals, Outdoor Adventures, and Natural Wonders, so readers can decide what to do and then figure out where to do it. It’s a great way to uncover the many state parks, museums, beaches, foodie delights, and more that can be found throughout the Tar Heel State.

Other regional series that veteran college students might enjoy are the Adventure Journey Guides, Adventure Weekends, Backpacking by State, and Rail-Trails.

Whether your college kid is an avid camper, cyclist, or kayaker, whether they love ghosthunting or hunting for new places to travel, AdventureKEEN has college gift ideas for them. Send a guidebook today, and let them know that out of sight is definitely not out of mind.