Draft:Nancy Field

American childrens book author From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Nancy "Nan" Field is an American wildlife biologist, educator, and author known for her contributions to environmental education and children's literature. She is the co-founder of Dog-Eared Publications, a publishing house dedicated to creating biologically accurate nature books for children. Field is also recognized for her early environmental activism, notably co-organizing the first Earth Day events at South Dakota State University in 1970.

Early life and education

Field pursued her higher education in the biological sciences, attending South Dakota State University (SDSU). In 1970, while completing her Master's degree in wildlife biology, she became a pivotal figure in the nascent environmental movement on campus. Inspired by the national call for environmental "teach-ins," Field co-organized SDSU's inaugural Earth Day celebration. Her academic background in wildlife biology provided the scientific foundation for her later career in both teaching and publishing.

Career

Following her graduate studies, Field spent several years in academia and field research. She served as an instructor of biology and environmental science at several institutions, including Oregon State University and Bellevue Community College. Her teaching philosophy emphasized the importance of translating complex biological data into accessible information for the public.

In an effort to foster an "environmental ethic" in younger generations, Field co-founded Dog-Eared Publications. The firm specializes in "discovery books" that blend scientific facts with interactive activities like puzzles and mysteries. Field has authored or co-authored numerous titles in the Discovering Nature series, which are utilized by educators, homeschoolers, and conservation groups such as the Timber Wolf Alliance.[1]

Selected bibliography

Field's work is characterized by its focus on the flora and fauna of North America, particularly the Pacific Northwest.

  • Field, Nancy; Machlis, Sally (1984). Discovering Salmon. Dog-Eared Publications. ISBN 9780941042055.
  • Field, Nancy; Machlis, Sally (1987). Discovering Marine Mammals. Heritage House. ISBN 9780941042062.
  • Field, Nancy (1989). Discovering Crater Lake. Dog-Eared Publications. ISBN 9780941042086.
  • Anderson, Margaret Jean; Nancy, Field; Anderson, Margaret; Stephenson, Karen F. (1995). Ancient Forests. Heritage House. ISBN 9780941042147.

Awards and recognition

Field's publications have received several industry awards for their educational value and non-fiction accuracy:

  • Ben Franklin Award (2004): For Best Juvenile-Young Adult Nonfiction (Discovering Salmon)
  • Mom's Choice Awards: Recipient for Discovering Black Bears
  • iParenting Media: Named "Hottest Products of 2004.

References

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