ABOUT THE BOOK
The Friendly Invasion Of The Tiny Explorers And The Goodness They Left Behind
“My parents exposed me to the wonders of nature right from the start; all year long, the outdoor world wove itself into the rhythm of my family’s seasonal plans. We followed the blooming fields, the turning leaves, the migrating Canada Geese and the returning robins like a compass guiding our year. As a child, the Morton Arboretum was my playground; as an adult, it became my cathedral. I hope to inspire this passion in children of every age.” — Marissa Happ
The Friendly Invasion of the Tiny Explorers is a heartwarming true-to-life story of children in a hospital classroom who discover resilience and hope through nature’s quiet miracles. When Black Swallowtail caterpillars arrive in their care, the children learn lessons of patience, compassion, and teamwork. They grieve the loss of one fragile creature, celebrate the transformation of another, and realize that they too are growing, healing, and preparing for their own flight into life. This touching journey reminds us all that even in the most vulnerable moments, nature has the power to comfort, teach, and inspire.
The Author
Marissa Happ is an educator, therapist and writer. Since 2000, Marissa has had the opportunity to use clinical skills within a variety of health care environments, working with children, adolescents, adults and families in early intervention, public health, pediatric medical clinics, infant mental health initiatives and psychiatric hospital social work.
Buy the Book
This story was the culmination of a nine-month therapeutic classroom project which allowed hospitalized children the opportunity to experience the healing capacity of nature.
