In a notable achievement for children’s literature, Earl de Berge’s ‘Big Ears Jack and Friends’ has been named a finalist in the Children’s International Book Awards in both the Fable and Nature categories. The book, which has already drawn praise for its engaging stories and educational value, continues to garner recognition for its unique blend of entertainment and environmental awareness.
The book’s finalist status follows a glowing review from Rachel Denning of Reader’s Views, who compared the reading experience to Aesop’s Fables. Denning noted that each chapter features an animal, plant, or insect as the main character, with a life lesson at the end of each adventure. “The stories are similar to what parents or older readers will likely have seen on TV when they were younger,” she wrote, drawing parallels to popular nature-based shows like The Lion King, The Wild Thornberrys, and Wild Kratts. Denning, who read the stories to her preteen kids, emphasized that the messages are “timeless” and suitable for all generations.
Set in the Sonoran Desert of Baja California, the book introduces a vibrant cast of characters, including clever coyotes, playful foxes, whimsical boojum trees, and elusive bobcats. The stories are designed to entertain while subtly teaching children about nature, biodiversity, and environmental awareness. By personalizing plants and animals, de Berge captures young readers’ imaginations and fosters a deeper appreciation for wildlife and habitats.
Among the memorable characters are Nosey and Wag, mischievous coyote brothers; Blue Dasher, a racing dragonfly; the Kangaroo Rat Chorus; tree-lizard Boris; Giro the dust devil; Hawk Conchita; Lady Treble Clef, a watchful cactus; Paulina, the puma poet; Diana the musical tarantula; and many others. This diverse cast ensures that each story offers a new perspective on the desert ecosystem.
The book has received praise from multiple reviewers. An AWA reviewer highlighted its world-building, noting that “de Berge weaves the flora and fauna of Baja California into the narrative, making the setting feel like a character itself.” The reviewer also appreciated the themes of community, creativity, and environmental respect that run throughout the collection.
Reviewer Essien Asian commended the author for presenting educational information in detail while using dialogue to stimulate young readers’ imaginations. “The mix of strategically placed illustrations, an engaging narrative style, and thought-provoking subplots regarding these animals ensures that young readers will learn vital lessons in diplomacy and survival,” Asian wrote.
Mark Winheld, in his Amazon review, enticed potential readers with chapter titles like “Sheriff Diamondback and the Egg-Thieving Coyotes” and “Dianna the Musical Tarantula,” suggesting the book is full of fantasy fun.
Earl Vincent de Berge, an Arizona native, brings a wealth of experience to his writing. With a master’s degree in political science from the University of Arizona, he founded Behavior Research Center, Inc. and edited the Rocky Mountain Poll for 35 years. His passion for the Sonoran Desert’s wildlife, sparked by his own adventures in Baja California, inspired him to create this chapter book for young readers. He has also published three poetry collections and is working on a biography titled “The Man Who Ate His Dreams.”
‘Big Ears Jack and Friends’ is available in print and ebook formats on Amazon at Amazon. More information about the author and his other works can be found at earldeberge.com.
