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When I started the series “Now I Know What a ___ Is!”, a lot of people asked me: “Why bugs?”

The answer is simple: bugs are everywhere kids explore — backyards, parks, sidewalks, even windowsills. They’re the first wild creatures children meet. And most of the time, kids are more curious than cautious.

That’s why my books do three things at once:

• Make insects fun with bold illustrations and coloring pages.
• Teach kids the role each insect plays in nature.
• Show clearly which bugs are safe to...

I’m Donald V. Dunham, though many know me as “the Hermit Author.” My life is simple, grounded, and dedicated to two things: writing books and building gardens. Every book I create doesn’t just put stories or activities in your hands—it directly helps fund real-world projects like community gardens and a future Mushroom House.

My latest project is a children’s book series called “Now I Know What a ___ Is!”. These are not just coloring books. Each one teaches kids about a real insect—what it...