Exciting New Nature Books from Stan Tekiela: Birds, Nature Smart, and Field Guides to Reptiles and Mammals!
Renowned naturalist and author Stan Tekiela is launching several new books—perfect for exploring the Midwest and beyond. Get the scoop on these upcoming releases, including the latest addition to the Kids’ Guide to Birds series, Nature Smart, Reptiles & Amphibians of the Midwest Field Guide, and two from the Mammals series.
Kids’ Guide to Birds Series: Now Featuring Virginia!
Stan’s popular Kids’ Guide to Birds series expands this season with the Kids’ Guide to Birds of Virginia, releasing in October 2025. This series is beloved for making bird-watching fun and accessible for young explorers and their families.
What’s New in the Virginia Edition:
86 of the most common and important Virginia birds
Organized by color for quick-and-easy identification
Full-color photographs and a full page of information for each species
Field marks, range maps, and Stan’s cool facts
Fun activities like building birdhouses and making bird food
With the addition of Virginia, even more families can enjoy bird-watching adventures and learn about their state’s feathered friends.
Introducing Nature Smart
Nature Smart: Midwest: Discovering the Natural World Around You will captivate readers with its immersive exploration of the Midwest’s prairies, wetlands, and woodlands. Stan’s engaging, science-based storytelling and practical advice make this book a must-have for families, educators, and anyone eager to become a more mindful naturalist.
Key Features:
Multisensory approach to nature exploration
Activities and tips for all ages
Focus on Midwest ecosystems and conservation
Inspires curiosity and environmental stewardship
Nature Smart: Midwest is the perfect starting point for anyone wanting to see nature through new eyes and become an active participant in environmental preservation.
Reptiles & Amphibians of the Midwest Field Guide
Releasing in June 2026, the Reptiles & Amphibians of the Midwest Field Guide is your essential companion for identifying turtles, snakes, lizards, frogs, toads, and other reptiles and amphibians across the Midwest.
Highlights:
Over 130 species found in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin
Organized by group and size for quick, accurate identification
Full-color photographs, including variations, bellies, and juveniles
Detailed range maps and croaking charts
Stan’s Notes with fascinating facts and natural history
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fan of herpetology, this new series will help you confidently identify and appreciate the Midwest’s diverse reptile and amphibian life.
Who is Stan Tekiela? Stan Tekiela is a leading naturalist, wildlife photographer, and author of over 190 field guides and nature books, specializing in North American wildlife.
What makes Stan Tekiela’s field guides unique? Each guide features user-friendly organization, full-color photographs, detailed range maps, and practical tips for accurate identification—making them ideal for beginners and experts alike.
Are these guides suitable for families and children? Absolutely! Each series is designed for accessibility, with clear language, engaging photos, and practical tips for all ages.
Why Choose Stan Tekiela’s New Nature Books?
Expertise: Decades of experience as a naturalist and wildlife photographer
Region-Specific: Focused on the Midwest and Virginia, plus many more
Visual Learning: Stunning, accurate photography and easy-to-read maps
Family-Friendly: Activities, fun facts, and clear organization for all ages
Get Ready to Explore with Stan Tekiela
Don’t miss out! Whether you’re planning a family hike, a solo adventure, or a classroom project, Stan’s new guides will help you discover and identify the amazing wildlife of your region. Pre-order today, share this post with fellow nature lovers, and subscribe for more updates on the best new field guides and nature books!
In a world where technology often takes center stage, Alex Troutman’s Critters series offers a refreshing way for children to connect with the natural world. With books like Critters of Georgia and Critters of Minnesota, Alex has created an engaging, educational, and inclusive resource that inspires kids to explore wildlife while fostering environmental stewardship. These books are more than just field guides—they are tools for empowerment, inclusivity, and conservation.
The Critters Series: A Gateway to Nature
The Critters series is a collection of wildlife guides designed to educate and inspire children. Each book highlights the unique biodiversity of a specific state and introduces readers to a wide variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. With vivid photographs, fascinating facts, and practical safety tips, these books make learning about wildlife accessible and fun for kids of all ages.
The Critters series is produced in collaboration with Wildlife Forever, a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving America’s outdoor heritage. Wildlife Forever focuses on habitat restoration, conservation education, and fostering a love for nature in future generations. Through innovative programs like the Art of Conservation®, the nonprofit engages youth to connect with the environment in creative ways, combining art and science to help them learn about wildlife. A portion of the proceeds from the Critters series supports Wildlife Forever’s initiatives, ensuring that the books not only educate but also contribute to real-world conservation efforts.
Meet the Author: Alex Troutman
Alex Troutman is a Fish and Wildlife Biologist, nature enthusiast, and advocate for diversity in the outdoors. Growing up in South Cobb, Georgia, his love for wildlife was sparked during childhood fishing trips with his family. A fascination with animals like the red-tailed hawk, which he calls his “spark bird,” fueled his lifelong passion for nature and conservation.
Inspired by role models like Steve Irwin and Jack Hanna, Alex pursued a career in wildlife biology, earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biology from Georgia Southern University. Alongside his professional achievements, he is committed to fostering inclusivity in science and nature. As a co-organizer of initiatives such as Black Birders Week, Black Mammologists Week, and Black in Marine Science Week, he works to promote diversity in STEM fields and encourage underrepresented communities to connect with the outdoors.
Alex’s books are a testament to his dedication to inclusivity. He writes with children in mind—particularly those who identify as Black, Brown, Indigenous, or People of Color, as well as those with neurodivergent conditions like ADHD and dyslexia. By sharing his own experiences, he inspires kids to embrace their unique identities and pursue their dreams with confidence, showing that challenges can be overcome with determination and support.
The Critters series stands out for its focus on representation and empowerment. Alex dedicates his work to children from diverse and underserved backgrounds, encouraging them to explore nature unapologetically. His message is clear: Nature belongs to everyone, and every child deserves the opportunity to experience its wonders. Through his efforts, Alex ensures that all children feel welcome in the outdoors, fostering a sense of belonging and inspiring the next generation of conservationists.
Why These Books Matter
In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, the Critters series offers a much-needed opportunity for children to reconnect with nature. By combining education, inclusivity, and conservation, Alex Troutman and Wildlife Forever have created a resource that resonates with families, educators, and young readers alike.
Whether you’re a parent looking to inspire your child, a teacher seeking engaging classroom materials, or a young reader dreaming of a career in wildlife biology, the Critters series is a must-have. It’s more than a set of books—it’s a movement to create a future where every child feels empowered to explore, learn, and protect the natural world.
Alex Troutman’s Critters series, in partnership with Wildlife Forever, is a testament to the power of education and representation. By inspiring children to explore the outdoors and promoting inclusivity, these books are shaping the next generation of conservationists. With every page, young readers are reminded that nature belongs to everyone—and it’s up to all of us to protect it.
Indie Press Month is a time to shine a light on the world of independent publishing. This yearly celebration serves as a platform to recognize and support the important contributions of indie presses to the literary world. Among the many significant independent publishers, Menasha Ridge Press and Wilderness Press stand out with their focus on outdoors and adventure titles.
The Significance of Indie Press Month
Indie Press Month is a key initiative that brings attention to smaller, independent publishers that often bring unique and diverse voices to the forefront of literature. This celebration, led by the Independent Publishers Caucus (IPC), encourages readers to explore beyond mainstream publishing houses and discover the rich stories and information that indie presses offer. Support of these publishers creates a more diverse and dynamic literary ecosystem.
Menasha Ridge Press: Pioneering Outdoors Adventure Literature
Founded over 35 years ago, Menasha Ridge Press has established itself as a cornerstone in the indie publishing world, particularly in the niche of authoritative and engaging content for outdoors enthusiasts and travelers alike.
The Menasha Ridge Press catalog spans a wide range of topics, including wilderness sports, wildlife, history, and travel. By focusing on these specialized areas, Menasha Ridge Press illustrates the indie spirit, giving voice to authors and subjects that might otherwise be overlooked by larger publishing houses.
Wilderness Press: A Legacy in Outdoors Guidebooks
Established in 1967 in Berkeley, California, Wilderness Press has been a trailblazer in outdoors guidebooks for more than five decades. The journey began with the publication of Sierra North, a guidebook for the Northern Sierra Nevada that set the standard for outdoors guides to come.
Wilderness Press has built its reputation on producing thoroughly researched guidebooks and maps. Its publications are known for practical, detailed content, written by authors with expert knowledge of the trails and regions they describe. This commitment to authenticity and expertise has made Wilderness Press a trusted company for backpackers and outdoors enthusiasts for generations.
The Role of AdventureKEEN in Indie Publishing
It’s worth noting that both Menasha Ridge Press and Wilderness Press are imprints of AdventureKEEN, an independent publisher that specializes in travel and nature books. The mission of AdventureKEEN aligns closely with the ethos of Indie Press Month, as the company strives to encourage outdoor exploration and provide resources for people to enjoy and learn about nature. Its commitment to keeping families active and engaged with the outdoors through publications and partnerships further underscores the importance of independent publishers in promoting particular interests and fostering community engagement.
As we celebrate Indie Press Month, it’s clear that publishers like Menasha Ridge Press and Wilderness Press play a vital role in the literary world. They not only provide valuable resources for outdoors enthusiasts but also embody the innovative and passionate spirit of independent publishing. By supporting these and other indie presses, readers gain access to a wealth of knowledge and perspectives that enrich our collective understanding and appreciation of the world around us.
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.
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 identifyingtrees 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
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.
One of the smartest ways we can ensure we are moving towards a healthier Earth is to help create spaces for birds, bees, and butterflies. These species are a key part of nature, and Native Plant Gardening for Birds, Bees, and Butterflies for the Rocky Mountains helps you turn your yard into an oasis for all of our pollinating friends.
Overview of native pollinator species in the Rocky Mountain region
Field guide to 106 native plants, organized by types of plants, such as shrubs, trees, and wildflowers
Quick-reference chart to plants, blooming periods, and what animals each plant attracts
Hardiness zone information, weed control tips, and more
Plus, there is a section with garden plans that can be customized to suit your specific interests, location, and goals you have for your garden and yard.
These green spaces are so important and can be the most beautiful jewels in your neighborhood. So let professional nature photographer and botanist George Oxford Miller guide you through your smartest plant choices for Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, northern New Mexico, and northeastern Utah.
Today, we are sharing a few book launches that include stellar stories, hikes, bites, and literal stars. Look for these titles wherever you buy your books, or you can buy them directly from AdventureKEEN.
Whitewater Rescues by Charlie Walbridge is adventure armchair reading for anyone who has touched a paddle. This book includes more than 75 compelling true stories of canoeing, kayaking, and rafting rescues. These stories come straight from the American Whitewater Accident Database and explain how they are connected to today’s whitewater rescue techniques and tools.
Five-Star Trails: Asheville by Jennifer Pharr-Davis helps readers explore 35 of the most spectacular hikes and walks around Asheville. This full-color guidebook will help you discover peaceful waterfalls, dramatic mountain vistas, bountiful nature preserves, and, of course, the Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Homestyle Kitchen by Julia Rutland offers 154 fresh and timeless recipes focused on comfort food that brings people together. This full-color cookbook is overflowing with photos, ideas, stories, and recipes. The book covers breakfast, bread, main dishes, and sides and even offers vegetarian options for many of the recipes.
Stars by Mike Lynch frames the night sky in a month-by-month plan to help beginners learn all year long. Mike’s casual and friendly tone is the perfect way to introduce yourself or someone else to the constellations overhead. This full-color guide offers sky charts and detailed descriptions to help readers learn and plan ahead.
We hope you’ll check out one (or all!) of these fun books, and most of all, we hope you’ll use them and get outside to enjoy the benefits of nature.
We are so excited that Good Morning Mother Nature, Lucas Alberg’s and Megan Marie Myers’s newest book, is finally hitting bookstore shelves. The artwork in this children’s picture book is just as playful and inspiring as the words, which are heartwarming and encouraging.
Good Morning, Mother Naturehelps readers of all ages celebrate the great outdoors. Follow a chickadee at sunrise as it flits through the forest, wishing “good morning” to bears, beavers, deer, and other beloved critters. Along the way, the friendly bird encounters familiar sights and sounds of the forest, from fresh dew on leaves to a burbling brook.
Written as a companion to the acclaimed Goodnight Great Outdoors, this children’s book is a warm, rhyming homage to wildlife and the outdoors.
So open your eyes, stretch your arms, and gather the kids for a perfect story to begin the day. It’s available today wherever books are sold, or you can buy it directly from the AdventureKEEN shop.
AdventureKEEN is excited to share the news that Shelter Publications has become the publishing group’s seventh imprint, effective January 1, 2024. Shelter Publications was founded by Lloyd Kahn and based in Bolinas, California.
“We are honored and appreciative to be able to shepherd the Shelter list going forward. Lloyd’s books have always been distinctive and smart. We’re pleased that we can continue his legacy of creating first-rate books that inspire and benefit readers around the world,” says Richard Hunt, president of AdventureKEEN.
Shelter Publications is a 50-year-old independent publisher known for its high-quality books about home building and personal fitness. With Lloyd’s start in the Whole Earth Catalog, Shelter’s building books (many written by Kahn), detail topics including small houses, campers, road rigs, houseboats, and much more. The long-selling fitness titles include Bob Anderson’s Stretching and (Jeff) Galloway’sBook on Running.
Publisher Molly Merkle adds, “Lloyd (aka “The King of D.I.Y. Dwellings”) has a voice and perspective that continues to resonate with readers. We are thrilled to carry forward his work and influence for future generations.”
“I’m more than excited to be working with AdventureKEEN in this next phase of my career. Our goals and aspirations are in sync, and I’m looking forward to this new relationship that will give me time to communicate via Instagram, Substack, and YouTube (and with an occasional book). We also look forward to having AdventureKEEN’s expertise and skills in marketing our Shelter Library of Building Books,” says Lloyd Kahn, Shelter founder.
Shelter’s administrative functions will transfer to AdventureKEEN’s Birmingham, Alabama headquarters. Lloyd will continue to author and promote the Shelter list.
“PGW has had a wonderful history with both publishers, and their shared sensibilities will allow Lloyd to continue to explore his many publishing ideas with an ideal and supportive partner,” says Kevin Votel, vice president of business development at Publishers Group West.
Publishers Group West (PGW) will remain the trade distributor of Shelter Publications. Established in 1976, PGW, an Ingram distribution company, is one of the top book vendors in the country, representing about 100 independent publishers, who together are publishing some of the most topical, innovative, literary, and award-winning books available today. PGW has been AdventureKEEN’s sales and distribution partner since 2007.
AdventureKEEN, headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, with offices in Cincinnati, Ohio, and Cambridge, Minnesota, publishes 50-60 new titles annually, primarily on the subjects of nature, outdoor recreation, regional interest, and travel. The company has a backlist of 1000+ titles.
Dudley Edmondson, film director Chad Brown, and Molly Merkle
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 on stage at Atlanta screeningDudley Edmondson and Molly Merkle in conversation with cast member Jahmicah Dawes, president of Slim Pickins Outfitters in Central Texas.
