Bestselling author Earl Vincent de Berge has announced that 'Big Ears Jack and Friends' has achieved finalist status in the 2026 Children's Book International Awards, in both the Fable and Nature categories. The book, available on Amazon, is a collection of stories inspired by the flora and fauna of Baja California's Sonoran Desert.
Through a cast of characters including coyotes, foxes, boojum trees, and bobcats, the book aims to entertain and educate young readers about the natural world. The personalized plants and animals capture children's imaginations while subtly introducing concepts of biodiversity and environmental awareness, according to the author's announcement.
De Berge's own adventures in Baja California fueled his passion for the desert's wildlife, leading him to create stories that encourage exploration and learning. Older readers also find joy in reading the tales aloud to younger children, the announcement noted.
An AWA reviewer praised the book's world-building, stating that de Berge weaves the flora and fauna into the narrative, making the setting feel like a character. The reviewer highlighted themes of community, creativity, and environmental respect, noting that young readers enjoy magical adventures while adults appreciate underlying messages about cooperation and harmony with nature.
Amazon reviewer Mark Winheld pointed to engaging chapter titles such as 'Sheriff Diamondback and the Egg-Thieving Coyotes' and 'Dianna the Musical Tarantula' as examples of the fantasy fun within. Another reviewer, Essien Asian, commented on the educational details woven into dialogue, stimulating young readers' imaginations while teaching lessons in diplomacy and survival.
'Big Ears Jack and Friends' is available in print and ebook form on Amazon and other online retailers. More information about the author and his works can be found at earldeberge.com.
