Zootles Zooworks Contest

Our monthly Zooworks contest in Zoobooks is very popular. We often receive as many as 800 entries a month from children hoping to have their drawings or poems published in an issue or on our website.

We have launched a similar contest for our younger Zootles readers, but with less enthusiastic results. What do you see as the key to encouraging younger artists to contribute?

Action vs. Beauty

In years past, the thinking when choosing a cover photograph for Zoobooks was that a close-up portrait, where the animal had eye-contact with the camera, was ideal. This created a connection with the viewer, and allowed for a lot of detail.

But what do you think of showing an action shot on the cover, instead? Would the drama of a shot like this outweigh the personal connection of a portrait?

Empowering or Overwhelming?

Kids want to help animals, and Zoobooks wants to provide an channel for their energy. There is quite a debate, however, about how much ominous environmental news children should have to hear. There is a fine line between teaching/informing a child so he or she can make a difference, and making a child feel that a situation is too big to manage, and consequently hopeless.

We at Zoobooks want to be all about empowerment, and not fear. We are constantly looking for new options for activities and projects that take a very small view of a bigger issue, so that kids are set up for success. Are you aware of any such projects you'd like to share? Do you have any thoughts or comments on this debate? Help us make Zoobooks better than ever.

Help Us Choose a Cover for the Backyard Birds Issue!

It's time to make a final cover pick for the May/June Zootles issue, Backyard Birds. Which of these photos do you see flying its way into your home?

Issue Alert!

Keep an eye on your mailbox...Zoobooks Sea Otters, Zootles Whales, and Zoobies Animal Babies will be on their way to you shortly, and should be arriving between March 10th and 17th. Be the first to review your issue here!