(Secaucus, NJ––March 2, 2022) Two entrepreneurial students at High Tech High School—seniors Roxy Hreb and Zach Fieldman——have self-published a children’s book, Eco the Elephant, with the hopes of inspiring the next generation of kids to think about environmental science and sustainability, announced Ms. Kathy Young, principal of High Tech High School.
Inspired by both contemporary and classic children’s stories and book series—including Peppa the Pig and Dr. Suess—Zach and Roxy created Eco to introduce young children to the systems that create and perpetuate environmental issues. According to the authors, “By shifting the social paradigm surrounding environmental issues starting at an early age, we hope to make a more widespread change through the lessons voiced in Eco the Elephant.”
Fueled by this desire for change, the seniors embarked on a career-altering journey through self-publication. Through the process of creating and managing an LLC committed to sustainable business practices—including assurances that the Eco book be printed on recycled cardstock and used environmentally-friendly inks—Zach and Roxy have a more clear understanding of life beyond high school or college. Zach has decided to pursue a career as an environmental entrepreneur, while Roxy will pursue a career in environmental start-ups that focus on renewable energy.
The authors plan to create a series of Eco the Elephant books, and are further supported in this by their Environmental Academy supervisor, Samantha Doria, and Environmental Science teacher, Dr. Shelly Whitham, who are connecting them with organizers of “green festivals” and local farmer’s markets, while also seeking opportunities for local “book signings.”
You can order your own physical or digital copy of Eco the Elephant by visiting www.ecotheelephant.com; you can also find copies at local bookstores in Hudson County, including Little City Books in Hoboken.