Pangolins and COVID-19

Pangolins are the only mammals with scales--they are also the most illegally trafficked mammal in the world. Over the past ten years, about one million have been killed for their meat and scales (falsely believed to have medicinal qualities). Pangolins have gotten quite a lot of attention with the news that COVID-19 may have been transmitted to humans from pangolins in wet markets. While information about COVID's origins is still unclear, it is very clear that these creatures, whose only defense is to roll up into a ball, need our help and protection before they are gone forever.

My most recent book, A Wish for Pangolin, tells the story of Preeya and her pup Chatri as they seek safety by moving deeper into the forest. While they make their journey, they get unexpected help from their forest friends. The book was inspired by not only pangolins (of course!) but also by the Thai Festival of Lanterns (Yi Peng), which celebrates wishes and hope for the future. The book includes fun facts and information about pangolins. Written for ages 4-8 and illustrated by Christina Wald.