Since age 19, I have hiked every trail in California’s Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, appreciating the giant coastal redwoods around me, as well as the vistas of the great ocean in the distance. At the end of each hike, I made it a ritual to offer silent homage to an old- growth redwood tree I named Eyesa. Close to thirty years ago, I stood before this great tree and uttered a vow to somehow educate and impart an appreciation and respect for nature in all the children I hoped to teach.

Since that day, I have taught children of all ages for 24 years in urban public schools. Currently I am serving as a semi-retired schoolteacher, making it a point to always incorporate environmental themes whether it is through science or English. But I have always yearned to do more to educate and inspire children beyond my classroom to cherish and protect our planet. So, I was moved to write environmentally based stories filled with poetry and songs that could capture the hearts of readers, young and old alike. My purpose remains the same: to raise people’s awareness and inspire them to join me in caring for our Earth and all living things on land and at sea, as much as each of us personally can.

When my first book, A Voice for the Redwoods, first came out in 2008, I made another promise to Eyesa that I would dedicate 10% of my proceeds from every book sold to different environmental organizations. I have done so since, determined to make a difference, even in a small way. It is my honor and privilege to do so. My greatest hopes are to continue encouraging others to join me in caring for our precious home, and to give as much as I can to some of the many noble environmental groups.

Loretta Halter, 2024