A remarkable and heartwarming literary venture has been unveiled with the launch of a new series of ten children's books celebrating wildlife from across the globe. This initiative brings together the extraordinary talents of two individuals deeply committed to conservation and education—renowned wildlife photographer Mr. V.
Ananthakrishnan and respected storyteller and academician Dr. Abdul Mohammed Ali Jinnah.
The series, which features a different wild animal in each book, is not just a tribute to biodiversity but also a call to action to inspire the next generation of conservationists. With its captivating storytelling and breathtaking visuals, the collection promises to be an invaluable tool in nurturing environmental awareness among young readers.
A Visionary Collaboration Across Continents
The genesis of the project is rooted in a shared vision: to connect children with the natural world through compelling narratives and stunning imagery. Mr. V. Ananthakrishnan, 74, is celebrated worldwide for his decades-long dedication to wildlife photography. Defying age and challenges, he continues to travel across continents, capturing animals in their natural habitats with an artist’s eye and a conservationist’s heart.
“These books are the culmination of years spent in the wild—waiting, watching, and understanding animals in their environment,” Mr. Ananthakrishnan said. “It’s not just about taking a photo; it’s about telling a story that can move people, especially children.”
Complementing these images is the evocative writing of Dr. Abdul Mohammed Ali Jinnah, a professor at Jamal Mohamed College, Trichy, and a veteran academician with 25 years of experience in literature and storytelling. His words bring the animals to life, creating narratives that are not only engaging but also educational.
“This series is designed to do more than entertain—it aims to ignite a lifelong curiosity in children about the planet they live on,” Dr. Jinnah explained. “Each story subtly integrates important lessons about biodiversity, environmental balance, and the role of every creature in our ecosystem.”
A Book Series That Bridges Art, Science, and Empathy
Every book in the series introduces a different animal, each portrayed through a combination of high-quality wildlife photography and richly developed storytelling. Whether it’s the stealth of a tiger in the Panna National Park in Madhya Pradesh, the grace of an African giraffe on the savannah, or the intelligence of a lion in the forests of Africa, the books invite children into the world of wild creatures with wonder and empathy.
Beyond storytelling, the series integrates age-appropriate facts and conservation messages, making it suitable for both home reading and classroom learning. The books are crafted to resonate with children aged 6 to 12, a formative period when curiosity about the world is at its peak.
Award winning photographer Munish Palaniappan, a BITS Pilani alumnus with a storied 12 year career in wildlife and motorsports photography, is now channeling his profound expertise into mentoring the next generation of visual storytellers. After two decades navigating leadership roles in the corporate world, Munish reinvented himself—transitioning to full time photography and becoming a sought-after mentor. Mr. V. Ananthakrishnan said, “My experience as a wild life photographer has been with Munish, my friend, mentor, and my guru. We have travelled to various places. I am part of all his safari trips and I am blessed that he and his family treat me as one of his family members.”
Why Wildlife Books for Children Matter Now More Than Ever
In an era where children are increasingly immersed in technology and urban lifestyles, opportunities for direct interaction with nature are becoming scarce. Creating meaningful connections between young readers and the natural world is vital for raising environmentally conscious citizens.
Books that feature animals in their wild habitats play a crucial role in this effort. They help instill curiosity and empathy, allowing children to form emotional connections with species they may never encounter in person. Through these connections, children begin to understand the importance of conserving habitats and protecting endangered animals.
“Children are natural explorers and storytellers,” Dr. Jinnah said. “When they see a lion not just as a picture but as a character with a life, challenges, and a home, they start to care. And caring is the first step to conserving.”
Global Impact with Local Roots
Though global in theme, the series is grounded in the creators’ Indian roots. Mr.
Ananthakrishnan and Dr. Jinnah hope that their work will resonate particularly with Indian families and schools, where environmental education is gaining importance but often lacks engaging, locally relevant resources.
By blending Indian storytelling sensibilities with international wildlife themes, the series offers a culturally rich reading experience. It aims to reach children in both urban and rural settings, through school programs, libraries, and outreach initiatives.
A Legacy for the Future
At its core, the series is more than just a set of books—it is a legacy. Mr.
Ananthakrishnan, whose career has spanned over five decades, sees this project as a way to give back.
“I want my photographs to live on as more than just art. I want them to educate, to inspire,” he said. “If even one child decides to care about wildlife because of these books, it will all be worth it.”
Dr. Jinnah shares this sentiment. “We’re planting seeds,” he added. “Seeds of curiosity, of compassion, of consciousness. These are the seeds that will grow into trees of change in the decades to come.”
