Anthrogs, Action, and Hope: A Conversation with Peter Blue Series Author Laurel Colless

Vanquish the Storm Lords and Anthrogs!

The power of stories to shape our understanding of the world is a central theme explored in this episode. We welcome Laurel Colless, an author dedicated to igniting the imaginations of young readers through her Peter Blue series of fantasy-adventure novels. 

By infusing her narratives with real-world environmental issues, Laurel not only entertains but also educates, allowing children and adolescents to confront the complexities of climate change. Our discussion explores how Peter Blue and his friends confront ecological challenges, transforming fear into hope and agency through teamwork and imaginative problem-solving. 

Our discussion navigates the challenges of communicating urgent topics to a younger audience without overwhelming them. Laurel shares her insights on how fantasy can be a vehicle for addressing serious issues, transforming fear into empowerment. We also touch on the significance of humor and hope in storytelling, emphasizing that these elements can provide a necessary balance in discussions about climate anxiety. As we follow Laurel’s journey from corporate sustainability to children’s literature, listeners gain insight into the transformative potential of narratives.

This episode is a celebration of creativity and a testament to the importance of fostering a hopeful vision for the future, reminding us all that through storytelling, we can inspire change and resilience.

Takeaways:

• We are a storytelling species. The most powerful technology throughout human history is storytelling, shaping civilizations and beliefs.
• As myth-makers and storytellers, we use stories to navigate our understanding of the universe and our place within it.
• Children's literature can be a force for good, addressing climate change through engaging narratives.
• Creating a compelling narrative around climate action is crucial for inspiring a global response to the crisis.

Links referenced in this episode:

• Renagale Tales
• Eye of the Stormlord
• Knights Unite
• Carbon Busters
• GlobalWarmingIsReal.com