Case Study: Read for Adventure
Partner: Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden
Roles: Author, Project Creative Director, Publishing & Program Coordinator, Creative Services Manager
Summary:
Read for Adventure is a literacy program delivered in partnership with over 250 libraries across Oklahoma. Since launching in 2020, families can check out the program’s children’s book from participating libraries to receive free OKC Zoo admission for four. The program creates an entry point to conservation education while improving community access. This project combined narrative storytelling, large-scale print production, and coordinated statewide logistics.
Key Contributions
Creative Writing & Story Development
Publishing & Print Production
Illustration Art Direction
Distribution & Logistics Coordination
Data Tracking & Reporting
Cross-Team & Partner Collaboration
Objective
The program required an engaging children’s book that taught conservation concepts and inspired action.
Approach
I had the wonderful opportunity to author Juniper’s Butterfly Garden, collaborating with the Zoo’s conservation and horticulture teams to ensure accuracy and actionable takeaways about monarch butterfly pollinators. After vetting many talented illustrators, I chose to work with Nadia Ronquillo for her colorful, approachable style. She took my scribbled storyboards and turned them into polished visuals perfect for our young audience.
Objective
The program needed scalable production and distribution to serve hundreds of libraries statewide.
Approach
I prepared print-ready files, coordinated publishing and bulk printing, and managed annual shipments to 250+ libraries. Each shipment included books, marketing materials, and serial-numbered admission vouchers which allowed us to track participation coming from each library.
Objective
Looking beyond distribution, we needed an efficient method for tracking and reporting to evaluate impact and justify funding and sponsorship.
Approach
I created and maintained a database of voucher serial numbers and their assigned locations, enabling detailed reporting on participation rates and redemption patterns. Annual heat maps and metrics reports helped demonstrate program value and guide future expansion.
Outcome
Since its launch in 2020, Read for Adventure has generated 400,000+ program-driven Zoo admissions. It has advanced nature-based literacy education, and built statewide partnerships across libraries, educators, and conservation organizations. The program continues to operate annually and remains a pillar of the Zoo’s educational outreach efforts.