PHOTO: Budd Titlow, award-winning author, ecologist, and photographer, captures the wonders of nature through his lens and words, inspiring change and conservation.
Championing Conservation Through Words and Images
Award-winning author Budd Titlow discusses his latest book Coming Full Circle, his passion for conservation, the power of photography in storytelling, and the urgent need for environmental action through historical and factual narratives.
Budd Titlow is more than just an author—he is a passionate storyteller, an esteemed wildlife ecologist, and a devoted conservationist who has spent decades bringing the wonders of the natural world to life through his words and photographs. With an unwavering commitment to environmental awareness, his work serves as both a call to action and a celebration of the beauty that surrounds us.
His latest book, Coming Full Circle: How Americans Finally Got Things Right!, is a masterful blend of historical fiction and environmental insight, offering readers a thought-provoking journey through time. With a narrative that interweaves real-world challenges and triumphs, Titlow crafts a compelling vision of hope—one that urges us to reflect on our past to shape a better future. This book joins his impressive repertoire, which includes Protecting the Planet: Environmental Champions from Conservation to Climate Change, Bird Brains, and Seashells, each showcasing his ability to illuminate the intricate relationships between humans and nature.
With over 500 published photo-essays, 5,000 photographs, and eight books to his name, Titlow’s work is a testament to the power of storytelling in the fight for conservation. His expertise and passion have earned him critical acclaim, with Coming Full Circle hailed as an “adventurous, passionate historical novel” by Kirkus Reviews and a “highly recommended read” by the US Review of Books.
In this interview, Budd Titlow shares insights into his creative process, the inspirations behind his works, and the urgent need for environmental stewardship. His journey as an author and conservationist is nothing short of remarkable, and his message is one that resonates now more than ever.
Budd Titlow masterfully blends science, history, and storytelling, inspiring readers to embrace environmental stewardship and appreciate the beauty of our natural world.
In “PROTECTING THE PLANET,” you highlight environmental champions. How did collaborating with your daughter, Mariah Tinger, influence the narrative?
Both Mariah and I are life-long conservationists and environmental activists, so combining our knowledge for this book just made sense.
“Both Mariah and I are lifelong conservationists, so combining our knowledge for this book just made sense.” – Budd Titlow
“BIRD BRAINS” delves into avian intelligence. What inspired you to explore the cognitive abilities of birds in this book?
Using both photos and words, “Bird Brains”depicts unusual — and sometimes just plain crazy — actions I have seen 100 wild birds take during my 40-year career working in the field.
Your book “SEASHELLS” showcases mollusks across North America. How did your background as a wildlife biologist inform your approach to this subject?
In reality, I had minimal personal experience with mollusks. An editor with Voyageur Press — who knew that I specialized in both writing and photography — called me “out of the blue” — and asked me to produce this book. It has actually sold pretty well!
In “ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK—Beyond Trail Ridge,” you present unique perspectives. What challenges did you face capturing the park’s essence beyond popular trails?
During my 13 years living in Colorado, I spent a lot of time working with the book’s photographers to learn about “RMNP’s” backcountry.
Your “Life Shots” gallery offers a preview of your work. How does this collection complement the themes explored in your books?
As both a freelance writer and photographer, I have always used my photographic experiences to inspire my writing.
As an award-winning nature photographer, how do your photographic experiences influence your writing, particularly in your recent publications?
My two latest books — both addressing our daunting environmental threats of climate change and biodiversity loss — are primarily narrative only (one non-fiction and one fiction), but they are both based on my love of and appreciation for the natural world gained through my photography.
Your presentations cover topics from bird behaviour to environmental conservation. How do these engagements enrich your writing process?
Aside from my family, my greatest pleasure in life is sharing my experiences with the natural world through my Power Point presentations!
What key advice would you offer aspiring authors aiming to write about natural history and environmental conservation?
Write about what you know and love and DON’T EVER GIVE UP!
Reviews of my latest book, “COMING FULL CIRCLE: How Americans Finally Got Things Right!”:
In an era striving for unity, a hopeful narrative emerges, inviting readers on a transformative journey through time.
Coming Full Circle, the latest 3-book release from Wildlife Biologist and Emeritus Wetlands Scientist Budd Titlow, captivates conscientious audiences with an odyssey through the heart of American history.
Through the eyes of a diverse cast of characters, readers witness untold stories of resilience, determination, and the enduring spirit of human connection.
With masterful storytelling, Titlow deftly navigates the intricacies of history, unraveling the threads that have led us to the brink of crisis. Yet, amidst the shadows of uncertainty, a beacon of hope emerges—a call to action echoing through the ages.
As the pages turn, a challenge lingers in the minds of readers: Will we heed the lessons of the past and embrace change before it’s too late?
Join the conversation and embark on a journey of discovery with Coming Full Circle —a literary tour de force that promises to entertain, inspire, and educate.
“An adventurous, passionate historical novel about an eco-friendly balance between humans and nature.” – Kirkus Reviews
“Using a blend of historical fiction and poignant truths, the (book’s) narrative delivers a spirited discourse on conservation, our environment, oneness, and chiefly, the concept of coming full circle. Overall, the authors’ expertise in the topic of conservationism and their knack for storytelling is on full display, making for a highly recommended read.” – US Review of Books
“I recommend Coming Full Circle to fans of issues-focused fiction who also enjoy family sagas and tales of growth, learning, and self-discovery.” – Readers’ Choice
EDITOR’S CHOICE
A powerful, thought-provoking novel that masterfully blends history, environmental awareness, and human resilience—both captivating and deeply inspiring.
