Inspiring Young Minds Through Storytelling
Alan J. Hesse discusses his passion for conservation, the creation of Captain Polo, and the power of graphic novels in educating young readers about climate change through engaging storytelling, humour, and adventure.
Alan J. Hesse is a force of nature in both the literary and environmental spheres. As a multi-award-winning author and illustrator, he has seamlessly woven his three decades of experience in conservation into compelling storytelling, creating books that both educate and entertain. His acclaimed Adventures of Captain Polo series has become a cornerstone of environmental literacy, bringing the complexities of climate change to life through the adventures of an unforgettable polar bear protagonist.
Hesse’s passion for conservation is not just the foundation of his work—it is its driving force. His books are not merely stories; they are journeys into the heart of global environmental issues, crafted with authenticity, insight, and a deep respect for the cultures and landscapes he portrays. His ability to make intricate scientific and social topics accessible to young readers is a testament to his skill as both a writer and an educator.
In this exclusive interview, Hesse shares the inspirations behind his work, the challenges of balancing entertainment with education, and the impact his books have had on young minds worldwide. From the origins of Captain Polo to the role of graphic novels in shaping environmental awareness, he offers a fascinating glimpse into his creative process and mission.
Alan J. Hesse masterfully blends conservation, storytelling, and artistry to create engaging, educational books that inspire young minds about climate change.
How has your 30-year career in nature conservation influenced the themes and narratives in your children’s books?
Decades spent living and working as a conservation biologist in the Global South mean that I have extensive personal experience with many of the landscapes and wildlife portrayed in my books, as also with the people who live in those landscapes. This undoubtedly influences the content of my books, which always seek to present geographies, cultural norms, local languages and general realities as authentically as possible.
What inspired you to create the character of Captain Polo, and how does he embody your environmental advocacy?
I wanted a bold, adventurous protagonist—brave but imperfect. Growing up I was a huge fan of Tintin, Asterix & Obelix, and Paddington Bear, and in fact I like to describe Captain Polo as ‘Tintin meets Paddington, with just a pinch of Obelix’.The fact that Polo is a polar bear was a simple choice, playing on the fact that this majestic yet fragile species is commonly used as a symbol for the effects of global warming, plus the fact that polar bears are easy for me to draw! Captain Polo embodies my environmental advocacy mainly by channeling my concerns about mindless overconsumption as one of the root causes of global issues.
Could you elaborate on the educational objectives behind ‘The Adventures of Captain Polo’ series?
My primary goal is to foster critical thinking. I want to empower people through accurate information that is easy and fun to assimilate. Through storytelling, I aim to make complex topics relatable: a 9-year-old in Europe who is vaguely aware of climate change through school and the media can see similarities with peers suffering constant floods in Bangladesh; a teen may rethink insisting on buying that new smart phone just because it’s cool, and adults might gain new insights into climate-linked social issues like migration and conflict. Ultimately, I want readers to better understand the world and their place in it.
How do you balance storytelling with environmental education to engage young readers effectively?
I first decide on a geographical context before researching relevant technical and educational content I want to include. Within this framework I then overlay a fictional storyline, which includes ‘pockets’ of pure entertainment to space out the technical content: a page full of ‘talking heads’ showing nothing but text-filled speech bubbles would kill my readers’ interest instantly. I make sure the story is fast-paced, like a roller coaster ride. Some sections are purely visual – no text at all. When I do need to go in-depth into technical content I use foot notes and the books usually also have a technical section at the back, which is also lightened through illustrations and simple language.
What challenges did you encounter while integrating complex environmental issues into accessible formats for children?
The main challenge is ensuring information remains engaging. Many books present accessible facts but lack entertainment value. I strive to make science fun and appealing even for those who aren’t naturally inclined toward it.
How do you envision the role of graphic novels and comics in promoting environmental awareness among younger audiences?
When I was a teenager I had to take a economics, a subject I knew nothing about. The first day of class the teacher pulled out ‘Obelix & Co.’ – an Asterix comic – and told us this was going to be our first text book. I’ve never forgotten that first lesson, and that is the power of entertainment: it leverages the creative right side of our brain, opening up new pathways to understanding and recall. Kids especially are more likely to pick up a book with pictures and a good story than a text book – that says it all.
What feedback have you received from educators and parents regarding the impact of your books on children’s understanding of climate change?
Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Parents and educators appreciate the books’ ability to simplify climate science while making it enjoyable. Many have shared that they, too, have learned from my books:
“Definitely sharing this with the kids in my family and extended family!” – Amazon buyer (referring to ‘Pole to Pole’).
“How do you teach your young kids about global warming? There are at least two problems. First, it’s a scary subject, and Second, there’s science involved. As a parent or teacher of young kids, how do you start? The answer? Use Captain Polo!” – Amazon buyer (referring to ‘Pole to Pole’).
“I’m going to give this book to my 10 year old daughter for Christmas. The story is funny and entertaining, and I think it is a good way to introduce the concept of climate change to children.” – Amazon buyer (referring to ‘Polo at the North Pole’)
“Alan Hesse has written a book I have shared with my son and other children about climate change from a positive, useful, and productive (and fun!) approach.” – Amazon buyer (referring to ‘The climate change comic’).
What advice would you offer to fellow authors aiming to blend environmental themes with children’s literature?
Prioritize storytelling. While technical content must be well-researched, it should be embedded within an engaging narrative. I’ve found that for children’s books, entertainment should take precedence, with educational elements seamlessly integrated. In comics, humor or drama works best, but pacing is crucial—keep kids turning the pages.
