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Wild Ideas: Let Nature Inspire Your Thinking
From the creators of You Are Stardust comes a new informational picture book that brings the big ideas of their first book down to earth. Wild Ideas looks deep into the forests, skies and oceans to explore how animals solve problems. Whether it’s weaving a safe place to rest and reflect, blowing a fine net of bubbles to trap fish, or leaping boldly into a new situation, the animals featured (including the orangutan, humpback whale and gibbon) can teach us a lot about creative problem solving tools and strategies. Like You Are Stardust , this book uses lyrical text grounded in current science alongside wonderfully detailed art to present problems as doorways to creative thinking. Wild Ideas encourages an inquiry-based approach to learning, inviting readers to indulge their sense of wonder and curiosity by observing the natural world, engaging with big ideas and asking questions. An author’s note at the end delves deeper into the research behind the text.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published April 7, 2015
3 people are currently reading
547 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
October 24, 2021
Gorgeous art, terrific science of animal cognition, fun, bright, engaging, poetic. Author's note has best actual advice though... "try taking your troubles for a walk." Fresh air, nature, and exercise are really among the very best strategies for many problems, especially the low-level and vague like fretfulness.
Highly recommended... I feared this might be too 'instant classic' but it's not; it's just right.
Highly recommended... I feared this might be too 'instant classic' but it's not; it's just right.
October 2, 2025
When squirrels have figured out how to safely cross roads I will give this book another chance.
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March 28, 2015Wild Ideas is a children's book about how animals face their problems and how they use their imagination to solve the problems. Wild Ideas is full of beautiful, bright colored illustrations and the illustrator uses real items to create the background of the story.
The story teaches children to really think about problems and helps them to think of ways to resolve the problem.
"Step outside.
LOOK.
If squirrels can learn to cross roads by watching people, what can you learn by watching squirrels?"
Wild Ideas introduces all kinds of animals and their behaviors to children. It also shows how intelligent animals really are and how they survive and adapt to their surroundings. It also expresses how animals need family and friends just like humans do and that they recognize and care for their parents.
Another huge part of this story is the use of imagination. The author really shows how the animals use their imagination when faced with a problem and how it helps them to resolve the problem they were facing. I really enjoyed Wild Ideas and I think it will grab and hold the attention of small children well.
The story teaches children to really think about problems and helps them to think of ways to resolve the problem.
"Step outside.
LOOK.
If squirrels can learn to cross roads by watching people, what can you learn by watching squirrels?"
Wild Ideas introduces all kinds of animals and their behaviors to children. It also shows how intelligent animals really are and how they survive and adapt to their surroundings. It also expresses how animals need family and friends just like humans do and that they recognize and care for their parents.
Another huge part of this story is the use of imagination. The author really shows how the animals use their imagination when faced with a problem and how it helps them to resolve the problem they were facing. I really enjoyed Wild Ideas and I think it will grab and hold the attention of small children well.
June 14, 2017
This will be a good book for summer 2017 when our library theme will be "Build a Better World!" because it's about problem solving and looking to nature for ideas. I think the illustrations are excellent -- not for a group read-aloud because they're too intricate -- but the kind of details and textures that are fun to pore over.
My criticism of this book is that there are some mysterious sentences like, "Pigeons procrastinate." Say what? I think the book would be improved with some references so kids could easily find out more about some of the assertions in the books. Can bears really count? I read an article in National Geographic that said "it's too early to call it counting per se." So I'd like more information, please.
My criticism of this book is that there are some mysterious sentences like, "Pigeons procrastinate." Say what? I think the book would be improved with some references so kids could easily find out more about some of the assertions in the books. Can bears really count? I read an article in National Geographic that said "it's too early to call it counting per se." So I'd like more information, please.
October 23, 2018
Nature does inspire the creative solutions in this book. A little overwhelming with the illustrations and a little far reaching with the text, this book never-the-less fills a void in how we can use the animal kingdom to stop and think about our problems.
February 10, 2021
A nice reminder to look outside ourselves for inspiration and problem solving.
But this artwork. I am stunned. I read the book. Then went back and spent several minuets just looking at each page. Such depth and texture and clever ways of building... Just beautiful.
But this artwork. I am stunned. I read the book. Then went back and spent several minuets just looking at each page. Such depth and texture and clever ways of building... Just beautiful.
May 24, 2015
First a little about the book. The core purpose is to show children that everyone has problems, even wild animals, and that they don't give up, but create their own answers. For example, sea otters that use rocks to open shells or humpback whales that capture fish in bubbles. The ideas encourage children to be creative and look around them to see what solutions animals in nature have innovated. I found the text enjoyable with different sized fonts and bold words to help children focus.
I would have liked a little more explanation about certain animals, and found myself looking at the inside cover art to explain what certain animals were doing, such as the elephant. In the book it says elephants innovate, but I couldn't tell from the picture or the text how they innovate. By looking at the inside cover I gathered more detail and read about an elephant stepping on a fence to get fruit. I guess I just need somethings spelled out.
The artwork is non typical and 100% brilliant. The artist uses different mediums to illustrated the author's words. There are collages that seem to jump off the page, felt moons that show texture and bright bold colors highlighting events. I was eager to turn each page to see how the artist would express things.
Wow, this book is so fun. Kids will enjoy every page. I do suggest looking at the inside cover art first so you get a better idea of what the animals in each page are actually doing. 4 stars!
I would have liked a little more explanation about certain animals, and found myself looking at the inside cover art to explain what certain animals were doing, such as the elephant. In the book it says elephants innovate, but I couldn't tell from the picture or the text how they innovate. By looking at the inside cover I gathered more detail and read about an elephant stepping on a fence to get fruit. I guess I just need somethings spelled out.
The artwork is non typical and 100% brilliant. The artist uses different mediums to illustrated the author's words. There are collages that seem to jump off the page, felt moons that show texture and bright bold colors highlighting events. I was eager to turn each page to see how the artist would express things.
Wow, this book is so fun. Kids will enjoy every page. I do suggest looking at the inside cover art first so you get a better idea of what the animals in each page are actually doing. 4 stars!
February 7, 2019
Reading Level for this book: 5-8 Interest Level: 5-8
First, the art in this is beautiful. Second, I am always on the lookout for books that tackles growth mindset well and in a way that children can connect to. I found that this book was lacking a lot on this front. The main premise of this book was largely a collection about different ways animals have adapted to their environment as a collection of abstract facts. As well, I found the writing of this was choppy and did not flow well. It would probably be a pain to read aloud. I think a few of my students might be interested in this book if I present it to them well, but I doubt it would help me foster any growth mindset ideals or thought processes in my students. At least not ones they could relay on regularly.
First, the art in this is beautiful. Second, I am always on the lookout for books that tackles growth mindset well and in a way that children can connect to. I found that this book was lacking a lot on this front. The main premise of this book was largely a collection about different ways animals have adapted to their environment as a collection of abstract facts. As well, I found the writing of this was choppy and did not flow well. It would probably be a pain to read aloud. I think a few of my students might be interested in this book if I present it to them well, but I doubt it would help me foster any growth mindset ideals or thought processes in my students. At least not ones they could relay on regularly.
May 6, 2018
Always looking for good books to read to my grands. Pictures were beautiful, story... not so much love. Message was great: find a way around problems but even little kids I think will be bored with the shallow ‘science’
January 19, 2019
The author of this book has a PhD in environmental science education, and works magic in this overview of the ways in which animals employ problem-solving strategies to navigate through the world.
She explains in her note:
“Problems are a problem. It’s frustrating when things don’t work out the way we’d hoped. And problems often leave us feeling scared, angry, worried or alone. Yet they are a normal part of life. Not just for you and me, but for every living creature on the planet. I wrote this book because I marvel at the creative ways in which animals tackle problems in their everyday lives. I want to encourage you to let nature spark your imagination when you’re caught in a jam.”
So what do animals do? For surely, as the author explains, they have problems to solve too, with respect to finding food, shelter, staying out of danger, and so on:
“When . . . animals want to make something happen…they try.
They get frustrated.
They try again.
They invent tools.
Chimpanzees fold leaves to spoon cool drinks of water.
Sea otters balance rocks on their bellies, perfect for cracking crabs.”
Some ways in which other beings solve problems are startling:
“And when they’re seeking direction,
Dung beetles look to the heavens
And steer by the Milky Way.”
Of course, it’s not only ideas that help solve problems, but assistance from others:
“You turn to friends and family
For support, and so do other animals.
Ravens use gestures to offer ideas.
Hyenas cooperate to help the hunt.”
She concludes:
“Untame your imagination.
A world of wild ideas awaits.”
Three-dimensional dioramas in vivid hues by the artist Soyeon Kim add a sense of wonder to the brief but cogent, understandable, and lyrical text. Some of the collages include real photos alongside the drawings for added texture and interest.
Evaluation: This is an excellent presentation for kids of a complex subject in a way that will not lose their interest, but rather will amaze and delight them, and hopefully entice them to investigate further on their own.
She explains in her note:
“Problems are a problem. It’s frustrating when things don’t work out the way we’d hoped. And problems often leave us feeling scared, angry, worried or alone. Yet they are a normal part of life. Not just for you and me, but for every living creature on the planet. I wrote this book because I marvel at the creative ways in which animals tackle problems in their everyday lives. I want to encourage you to let nature spark your imagination when you’re caught in a jam.”
So what do animals do? For surely, as the author explains, they have problems to solve too, with respect to finding food, shelter, staying out of danger, and so on:
“When . . . animals want to make something happen…they try.
They get frustrated.
They try again.
They invent tools.
Chimpanzees fold leaves to spoon cool drinks of water.
Sea otters balance rocks on their bellies, perfect for cracking crabs.”
Some ways in which other beings solve problems are startling:
“And when they’re seeking direction,
Dung beetles look to the heavens
And steer by the Milky Way.”
Of course, it’s not only ideas that help solve problems, but assistance from others:
“You turn to friends and family
For support, and so do other animals.
Ravens use gestures to offer ideas.
Hyenas cooperate to help the hunt.”
She concludes:
“Untame your imagination.
A world of wild ideas awaits.”
Three-dimensional dioramas in vivid hues by the artist Soyeon Kim add a sense of wonder to the brief but cogent, understandable, and lyrical text. Some of the collages include real photos alongside the drawings for added texture and interest.
Evaluation: This is an excellent presentation for kids of a complex subject in a way that will not lose their interest, but rather will amaze and delight them, and hopefully entice them to investigate further on their own.
November 9, 2018
When a problem comes your way, how do you handle it? Kelsey encourages readers that they can face problems and uses examples of animals problem solving and confronting problems as metaphors and encouragement for young readers.
I like that this book points out to kids that problems can spur us on to growth and innovation we might not otherwise achieve. The animal metaphors and examples are interesting and will likely enrapture young readers. The illustration style is a whimsical collage that further adds to the encouraging and curious feeling of the book. Hand this to kids who love random facts, animal lovers, or those who may need encouragement that they can tackle problems with some work and creative thinking.
I like that this book points out to kids that problems can spur us on to growth and innovation we might not otherwise achieve. The animal metaphors and examples are interesting and will likely enrapture young readers. The illustration style is a whimsical collage that further adds to the encouraging and curious feeling of the book. Hand this to kids who love random facts, animal lovers, or those who may need encouragement that they can tackle problems with some work and creative thinking.
December 15, 2019
You think you've got problems? So does everybody, animals included! This book's focus is on animals' problem solving skills. I'm a bit perplexed by the claim that squirrels cross streets by watching how humans do it...I apparently don't live anywhere near these smart squirrels. However, it does give children the mindset that problems are to be solved, they increase creativity and that everyone's got them. It'll give the kids a great view on problems as obstacles, rather than as oppressive or impossible to overcome.
As far as the illustrations, they are absolutely fantastical and fun. Mixed media collage with 3D diorama techniques make the pages something that you'll want to pour over for a bit. For that reason, I'd suggest this as a bedtime read.
As far as the illustrations, they are absolutely fantastical and fun. Mixed media collage with 3D diorama techniques make the pages something that you'll want to pour over for a bit. For that reason, I'd suggest this as a bedtime read.
July 10, 2019
A wonderful book for discussing emotional regulation and anxiety indirectly with young kids. We talked about how the orangutans stop and find someplace safe + quiet to stop, think, plan, rest. Other times, instead of holding tight to our problems we need to let go like a gibbon.
Miss 4 and I like to explore different books and authors at the library, sometimes around particular topics or themes. We try to get different ones out every week or so; it's fun for both of us to have the variety and to look at a mix of new & favourite authors.
Miss 4 and I like to explore different books and authors at the library, sometimes around particular topics or themes. We try to get different ones out every week or so; it's fun for both of us to have the variety and to look at a mix of new & favourite authors.
July 9, 2021
Three-line review: Animals have natural instincts that are also creative solutions to the problems they face in their day-to-day lives. This colorful book introduces several of those innovative solutions while weaving a message of thinking outside the box into the storyline. I learned something and walked away with a sense of hope that the next generation will embrace problem solving and creativity in new and unexpected ways.
March 12, 2020
A lovely book presenting some of the different ideas, problems solved by animals.
A note from the author notes that every example comes from scientists and provides a link to learn more about the science behind the book.
www.owlkidsbooks.com/wildideas
The link includes audio and some video to supplement the book and is worth a look/listen.
A note from the author notes that every example comes from scientists and provides a link to learn more about the science behind the book.
www.owlkidsbooks.com/wildideas
The link includes audio and some video to supplement the book and is worth a look/listen.
December 9, 2020
The artwork is amazing and earns this book that fourth star. Otherwise, I wanted to like it more than I did. The concept of looking to animals to see how they problem solve is fascinating but I thought that the text was sometimes a bit too dreamy. Pigeons may well procrastinate, but I don’t know how to take that in myself, much less explain it to the girls.
February 15, 2021
“If squirrels can learn to cross roads by watching people, what can you learn by watching squirrels?”
Nature can teach us all kinds of lessons if we are only willing to watch and learn. “Problem that need solving will always be part of life. Untame your imagination ... A world of wild ideas awaits.”
Such an interesting book.
Nature can teach us all kinds of lessons if we are only willing to watch and learn. “Problem that need solving will always be part of life. Untame your imagination ... A world of wild ideas awaits.”
Such an interesting book.
August 18, 2018
Odd but potentially useful in the classroom for promoting creative problem solving inspired by the ways animals overcome challenges.
"Chimpanzees fold leaves to spoon cool drinks of water."
"Problems that need solving will always be part of life. Untame your imagination..."
"Chimpanzees fold leaves to spoon cool drinks of water."
"Problems that need solving will always be part of life. Untame your imagination..."
August 2, 2017
Fantastic art.
August 18, 2017
Interesting. Thought provoking.
August 29, 2017
I love the illustrations and the inspiration!
January 24, 2018
Using animals and nature the author tries to inspire kids and adults to think in different ways. preschool and up
November 15, 2018
Kelsey encourages children to get outside and look at nature when facing their problems, maybe nature can prompt a solution and boost your creativity. I love the mixed media artwork.
May 16, 2020
I like to see kids reading this one.
Read
January 9, 2021This book, as opposed to You Are Stardust, has superior text and to-die-for, 3D illustrations. And I legit learned some shit.
July 28, 2021
Fun, artistic, and creative book that inspires you to let your ideas run wild and explore.
September 16, 2021
The illustrations in this charming book are indeed inspiring!
December 3, 2023
The pictures were amazing, but I would have liked this more if there was some sort of unifying idea or ecosystem for the animals featured. It just felt random.
December 31, 2025
Clever!
July 2, 2015
When it comes to picture books, there are some concepts that are challenging to teach. How to solve problems is probably one of the most difficult, because even as adults it comes down to the whims of our minds. Wild ideas successfully manages to convey some useful tips by saying, if you hit a snag, it's time to think outside the box, and there is a world full of examples that can spark your imagination. Sea otters use tools, humpback whales cooperate, and "baboons get guidance from their dads". Once again Kelsey teams up with Soyeon Kim, an artist who combines drawn and painted figures, cut paper, and other materials into a portrait with layers of depth. Their first collaboration, Are You Stardust, was stunning, Wild Ideas is even more so; the most beautiful example is when a group of whales circles a school of fish to gather and eat them. Kids ride on, play, and interact with the animals on each cheerfully coloured page. By using these creatures, Kelsey fosters the idea that they are like us. Animals solve problems in surprising ways, and we can too; use the objects at your disposal, work together, and ask for advice. There may be times when you get frustrated, and the ever elusive inspiration won't always help, but you need to keep trying because sometimes the solution will be something totally unexpected.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews