When Archie Walked Art and Story Book
Using accessible language and beautiful art, When Archie Walked will inspire readers of all ages to enjoy science and natural history.
About the Campaign 🦣
Beginning with Archie’s birth into a family of mammoths and ending with his death and eventual fossilization, “When Archie Walked” uses the newest science to imagine what it would have been like to grow up and live as a mammoth on the prairies of Nebraska. Written in collaboration with museum educators, vertebrate paleontologists, and illustrated by world-renowned paleoartist Andy Frazer, “When Archie Walked” will be a scientifically rigorous and artistically beautiful tool helping people learn about and love Nebraska’s natural history.
Children can read the book on their own, while teachers, librarians, informal educators, and parents can use the book to help children fall in love with Nebraska's past. Paleontology fans of all ages will admire the scientific rigor included inside both the text and the artwork.
The combination of science, prose, and art will help people gain a deeper and more complete understanding of the ancient ecosystems that existed in Nebraska for millions of years.
How does this impact the community?
When Archie Walked will tell the story of Nebraska's incredible natural history to both native Nebraskans and paleontology enthusiasts around the world. Nebraska is more than a "flyover" state. We're home to one of the world's greatest fossil records of mammoths and their relatives. This book is a chance to get the youth of Nebraska excited about our state's past and encourage readers outside of Nebraska to think about different aspects of the state. In addition, if funds are raised above the stated publishing goal, they will go toward providing copies of the book free of charge to area schools and libraries. This will expand the community's access to a piece of scientific art and prose.
Why should you support this project?
People come from all over the country and world to see Archie, our state's most famous fossil. This book will provide readers with a deeper understanding of an already beloved Nebraska icon. By supporting this book, you are helping to create a tool for readers of all ages to connect and bond over the beauty of Nebraska's past. When Archie Walked will help stimulate curiosity about the natural world around us and inspire a new generation of scientists and leaders.