Celia Straus is an Emmy-nominated writer with extensive experience in television and film, including the creation of award-winning shows and documentaries for major networks and organizations. Her work spans a variety of genres, from children's content to military topics and environmental issues. Straus has authored several books, including a poetry trilogy for middle school girls and works on PTSD in soldiers. She also writes children's picture books about endangered species, donating the royalties to related non-profit organizations. With a background in English from the University of Virginia and Georgetown University, Straus continues to produce content for television, live performances, and literature while residing in Washington, D.C.

You can learn more about Celia Straus at https://www.celiastraus.com/

Linda Chambers is a versatile creative professional with extensive experience in theatre, film, and writing. Her career spans acting, directing, producing, and teaching, but her primary focus has been writing across various mediums, including plays, screenplays, and novels. Chambers has published an epic fantasy novel, award-winning short stories, and children's plays. She is currently working on several projects, including a one-woman production about union organizer Mother Jones and a reimagining of "The Emperor's New Clothes." Her interests also extend to photography, particularly of butterflies, which led to her creating a series of artworks called "Fancy Butters."

You can learn more about Linda Chambers at https://lindachamberswriter.com/

TOPICS OF CONVERSATION:

About "Sophie the Monarch Butterfly: Mission to Mexico" and the inspiration behind the story.
The marvelous Monarch butterfly, an endangered species
Instilling themes of self-belief, leadership, care, kindness and environmental issues into an engaging story for kids (of all ages)!
Bringing Sophie and her butterfly world to life through illustrations
Inspiring children to become involved in conservation efforts - in and outside the classroom.
What's next for Celia Straus and Linda Chambers?

SOPHIE THE MONARCH BUTTERFLY: MISSION TO MEXICO

Sophie is a small Monarch Butterfly with a magical eye in her wing that acts as a compass. When the Monarch Butterflies make their annual migration from North America to the mountains of Mexico, where they spend the winter, they become lost. Against all odds, from predators, destruction of habitat and poisoning by herbicides, Sophie leads them to safety demonstrating her perseverance, courage and determination to believe in herself.

For children of all ages, Sophie Monarch Butterfly, Mission to Mexico explores what it takes to believe in yourself and take the lead when the welfare of others is at stake. It is also a story of one of our most endangered species, Monarch Butterflies, and their inspiring and courageous annual migration from North America to Mexico and back again.