During the global pandemic of 2020, stories of wildlife showing up in unexpected places began to emerge. From foxes cavorting in people’s gardens to geese sunbathing on beaches in Israel, these stories invited us to take pause, gaze with wonder, and enjoy the whimsy of seeing creatures explore what were previously considered human habitats.
In this book for children of all ages, Tia Martina’s magical words combine with artist Kelly Ulrich’s inspired illustrations to create a book that takes you on a journey around the world from the comfort of your own living room, while also gently highlighting the balance between nature and humanity.
“When the World Went Quiet” Tells the Story of What It Means to Coexist With Nature, Offering Children Something Positive to Focus on in Light of Coronavirus
Chicago-based author Tia Martina and Vancouver-based illustrator Kelly Ulrich, take children on a journey around the world to learn about animals who found more freedom to explore and play during the lockdowns caused by COVID-19, offering a glimpse at the delicate interplay between humans and nature. Based on true stories of unusual sights—like foxes cavorting in gardens and deer exploring city streets—the book is written in rhyming verse and accompanied by hand-drawn illustrations. When the World Went Quiet is recommended for children ages 4+ and is available now on Amazon with worldwide distribution.
Ten percent of all proceeds from the sale of this book will be donated to charity in support of conservation efforts around the world. Additionally, in celebration of World Animal Day, 100% of the proceeds from sales on October 3-4 will be donated to conservation-oriented nonprofits.
“Though we’re not animal experts, when we heard all the stories about animals venturing into ‘human spaces’ during lockdown, we realized we had an exciting opportunity to create something larger than ourselves or any virus,” says Tia Martina. “This was a project close to our hearts, a way to offer hope, inspiration, and some joy in the moment.”
Kelly Ulrich adds, “These stories felt almost magical, and yet we were all experiencing them; it didn’t matter where you were in the world. In many ways, it was a reminder that we’re all in this together. We hope the book gives children a chance to travel visually, even during a prolonged lockdown.”
About Tia Martina:
Tia Martina is author Martina E. Faulkner’s pen name, specific to her work as a children’s author. For over a decade, she has helped individuals and organizations as a writer, certified life coach, licensed therapist, and Reiki Master Teacher. With a focus on the role hope plays in our lives, Faulkner’s work revolves around helping and inspiring others. For more information, visit www.tiamartina.com or www.martinafaulkner.com.
About Kelly Ulrich:
Kelly Ulrich, IOM Resident Artist, is a children’s book author and illustrator from the west coast of British Columbia, Canada. She attended Emily Carr College of Art and Design and worked in the Graphics Department at the B.C. Teachers’ Federation for over 25 years. For the last 15 years she has been involved with teaching art to students of all ages on Vancouver Island and in the Vancouver area.
In addition to illustrating children’s books, Kelly recently created the successful comic strip series on Instagram called “Nala, Dean & Vinny.” She paints in Acrylic, Watercolor, and Oil.
For more information, or to purchase individual works, visit her website at www.kellybenay.wixsite.com/hand-drawn
About Inspirebytes Omni Media:
Inspirebytes Omni Media (IOM) is a women-owned and -operated publishing and multimedia company dedicated to effecting positive change by producing books and other products that are inspirational, educational, and entertaining. Through our core principles—service, authenticity, integrity, and fun—we collaboratively develop, promote, and leverage good work in the world. For more information, visit www.inspirebytes.com.
