Author is a guest speaker at the elementary schools in central Florida, and has been to over 60 schools speaking to 2nd through 5th grade students (about 18,000 of them, so far). The book is included in the elementary school's Renaissance Learning Accelerated Reader Program. Buzz on in for the adventure of a life time! This book makes learning about our environment fun and interesting. Not only does it reinforce what is taught in elementary schools about nature, science and how our natural world works, it also helps to ensure retention as the children mature. Featuring a bright, colorful cover and charming interior art, this story collection is recommended for young readers whose reading comprehension skills have made the transition from picture books. Look for free classroom handouts on reagentpress.com to help introduce early readers to this unique learning experience. "In the tradition of established folk and fairy tales, Mr. Schwartz has created a variety of engaging characters in this imaginative environmental trilogy. The message of preservation of humans and their environment is an important one for our youth." Dr. Richard Di Patri, Superintendent, Brevard Public Schools, Florida "Tom's stories about Mother Nature and her helpers left a big impact on the children, which will help make our Earth a cleaner place." Diane Goodson, Curriculum Resource Teacher, Eccleston Elementary School, Orlando, Florida "Tom visited out school and the children were enthralled with his stories about Mother Nature. Great message about saving the environment." Maureen Tassone, Media Specialist, Christa McAuliffe Elementary School, Palm Bay, Florida "Tom's Mother Nature stories reinforce what we teach about the environment. Our students loved the characters and their parts in helping Mother Nature." Sharen Talbert, Principal, Mims Elementary School, Mims, Florida
Tom was born in Brooklyn, NY in 1930, attended public schools, and graduated from the Manhattan High School of Aviation Trades in 1949. He enlisted in the Navy in 1951, and found his way to the US Naval Academy through an appointment from the Secretary of the Navy. Graduating in 1956, he chose the Air Force and served 27 years in the Research and Development area.
After retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel, he worked for Computer Sciences Corporation for 10 years, and eventually moved to Florida, where he writes stories for children and adults and visits the public schools as a guest speaker. Tom also is an active alumni of the Academy, serving as Secretary / Treasurer for the Space Coast Chapter, and a member of Congressman Posey's Nominations Committee for Naval Academy applicants.
