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Diamond Spratling isn’t just an accomplished professional with a background at the CDC and a TEDx speaker under her belt; she’s now adding “children’s book author” to her impressive resume. Her debut book, “Sage Sails the World,” is already making significant waves, not just for its engaging narrative but for its powerful message about climate change aimed directly at young readers. We sat down with Diamond to delve into the inspiration behind Sage’s adventures, the importance of representation, and how she’s making a complex topic accessible and empowering for kids.

Your new children’s book, “Sage Sails the World,” is already making waves. What inspired you to create this series, and why was it important for you to tell this story?

The seed for this series was really planted by a desire to equip kids with something I felt I lacked growing up: accessible resources to understand and act on climate change. I vividly remember a commercial about saving polar bears from melting ice sheets, and it sparked a deep concern within me. I wanted to do something, but as a child, I felt powerless. I didn’t have money to donate, and I didn’t see clear pathways for involvement. That feeling of being alone in my passion really stuck with me.

So, creating “Sage Sails the World,” especially starting with a story centered around polar bears, felt like a full-circle moment. It was about giving kids that sense of agency I longed for. Beyond that, as a young Black girl, I rarely saw myself reflected in the climate conversation. When I pictured scientists or activists, the faces were predominantly white men. With Sage, I wanted to create a character that resonates with all kids, especially kids of color, showing them that they too can be leaders and protectors of our planet.

Sage is such a compelling character—curious, adventurous, and passionate about the planet. Is she inspired by anyone in your life, or even a younger version of yourself?

Oh, absolutely! Sage is definitely a reflection of my younger self. I was that kid who constantly asked “why?” about everything. My mom can attest to that! I was endlessly curious, especially about things I didn’t quite grasp. I also often felt like my mind was operating on a slightly different wavelength than others.

Beyond the curiosity, I had a big heart and a real desire to help others. I was the peacemaker in class, trying to connect with everyone. That compassion naturally extended to the planet. I genuinely felt for Mother Earth and the harm being done to plants and animals. And let’s be honest, Sage has a little bit of sass in her, which my family would definitely say I had growing up too!

Climate change is a heavy topic, yet you’ve found a way to make it accessible for children. How did you approach blending education with storytelling in a way that resonates with young readers?

The key was leading with hope. I knew the story couldn’t be rooted in fear. My goal was to ignite climate optimism – to show kids that while climate change is serious, there’s still so much we can do. Even including words they might not immediately understand was intentional. It creates those wonderful “What does that mean?” moments, opening doors for parents and educators to explain and learn alongside their children.

I also wanted the series to be enjoyable. While climate change isn’t a laughing matter, finding moments of joy and empowerment in taking action is crucial. Kids start developing their sense of right and wrong early on, and I wanted to introduce those concepts through a climate lens. I want them to recognize when something isn’t right, like pollution, and feel empowered to make a difference.

You’ve had an impressive career—from working with the CDC to giving TEDx talks. How have your experiences shaped the message behind “Sage Sails the World”?

Being in spaces like the CDC and on those TEDx stages really highlighted the importance of representation, but even more so, the importance of fostering the next generation. It wasn’t enough for me to be in the room; I felt a deep responsibility to help create space for future leaders. That’s truly where “Sage Sails the World” came from. I wanted to create something that would inspire young people to engage with this work early on and feel like they belong. Because the truth is, we desperately need their voices and their passion.

These experiences also underscored the power of storytelling. In the climate world, we often get bogged down in data and technical jargon, which, while important, doesn’t always move people. Stories do. I wanted this book to spark hope, not fear, and to show kids that their actions, no matter how small, can create real change.

The illustrations in the book are stunning! How did you go about selecting the right artist to bring Sage’s journey to life?

Although “Sage Sails the World” is my first published children’s book, I’ve been a storyteller in various forms for years. Whether it’s teaching medical professionals about climate communication, giving talks, or creating environmental justice campaigns, I’ve always understood the power of narrative to move and inspire. The best stories, in my opinion, help us envision a better future.

Because of that, I knew the illustrations couldn’t just be decorative; they had to be integral to the storytelling. I was very intentional in choosing the right artist. I wanted to collaborate with another woman of color, someone who not only possessed incredible artistic talent but also deeply resonated with the message I was trying to convey. Honestly, the illustrations are so powerful that the book could have almost worked as a wordless picture book and still told a beautiful and compelling story. That’s how much the art contributes to bringing Sage’s journey to life.

Representation in children’s literature is so important. How does “Sage Sails the World” contribute to diversity and inclusivity in environmental storytelling?

“Sage Sails the World” is absolutely a deliberate effort to increase representation in children’s literature. I made Sage a young Black girl with natural, curly hair because growing up, I didn’t see enough characters who looked like me in the books I read. I could have easily made Benji the dog the main character, but I didn’t. I wanted the hero of this story to be a little girl who reflected my own childhood. This felt particularly important given the underrepresentation of Black women in the climate sector – a field projected to grow significantly. I wanted to challenge the traditional image of who belongs in this space, starting with our youngest readers.

While this book is for any curious young reader, regardless of their background, I especially wanted Black girls to see themselves in this series. Too often, we’ve been told, directly or indirectly, that we don’t belong in fields like climate science or environmental advocacy. I wanted “Sage Sails the World” to send a different message: You do belong. You are powerful. And your voice matters.

What do you hope parents and educators take away from this book? How can they use it as a tool to spark important conversations with kids?

My biggest hope is that parents and educators realize it’s never too early to start talking to kids about climate change. In fact, the earlier these conversations begin, the more likely children are to develop a genuine sense of care for the planet and feel empowered to take action, no matter how small.

I also want them to understand that these conversations don’t need to be framed in a negative, fear-inducing way. We don’t have to scare kids into caring. “Sage Sails the World” is designed to spark curiosity and a sense of responsibility, rather than fear. It’s a tool to help cultivate empowerment in young readers – something many of us adults didn’t necessarily grow up with regarding environmental protection.

The book also serves as a wonderful introduction to different parts of the world and how climate change impacts those places and the animals that live there. But crucially, it emphasizes that something can be done. It highlights the power of collective action and standing up for what’s right – lessons that extend far beyond climate issues and can be applied to all aspects of their lives.

You’ve already hinted at future books in the series. Can you give us a sneak peek into what’s next for Sage and Benji?

Yes! There are definitely more adventures in store for Sage and Benji. I’m thrilled to share that the next book will be released in April 2026, perfectly timed for Earth Month next year. I won’t reveal exactly where they’re headed next, but I can tell you it will be a significantly warmer climate than the Arctic!

Beyond the book, do you have any upcoming initiatives, partnerships, or events tied to your mission of environmental education?

Absolutely! I have several exciting initiatives in the works to further the impact of “Sage Sails the World” and bring environmental education to life for kids and families. I’m currently partnering with Zoo Atlanta to plan a special Earth Week event where children can enjoy a live reading of “Sage Sails the World,” learn about tangible climate actions, and participate in a zoo-wide scavenger hunt. This will help them connect the dots between wildlife and the environment in a fun and interactive way.

I’m also collaborating with local libraries and independent bookstores to host climate-themed storytime events and family-friendly workshops. These gatherings are designed to spark curiosity, build community, and make learning about the environment a joyful and memorable experience.

Additionally, I’m developing educator guides and classroom materials to accompany the book. These resources will support teachers in leading meaningful discussions around climate change, sustainability, and social responsibility in ways that are both age-appropriate and engaging for young readers.

For those who want to support your work and the message of “Sage Sails the World,” how can they get involved?

The most direct way to support the message is to grab a copy of “Sage Sails the World” for the young people in your life! It’s a wonderful storytime choice and perfect for independent reading. You can also support me by booking me for speaking engagements or storytime readings – I would love to bring Sage’s adventures to life in classrooms, organizations, or community events.

I’m always eager to connect with schools, school districts, youth-serving organizations, and bookstores interested in sharing or distributing the book. There are so many ways to get involved and help inspire the next generation of climate leaders!  Stay connected with her on social media at @diamondciara @girlplusenvironment and via web at https://www.diamondspratling.com/sage-sails-the-world

 

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Diamond Spratling